Creamy Sour Cream Ambrosia Salad with Fruit and Marshmallows

Old-Fashioned Ambrosia Salad like Grandma used to Make

If you want a nostalgic side dish, try this creamy Sour Cream Ambrosia Salad. Many families served a version of this dish at holiday meals, potlucks, and Sunday dinners. Pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, mini marshmallows, and sweet shredded coconut come together in a slightly tart sour cream dressing for a simple, satisfying combination of textures and flavors.

This recipe is straightforward and quick to make, and it works well for Thanksgiving, Easter, or any gathering where you want a bright, retro dish that sparks conversation. You can adapt it easily—swap ingredients or use fresh fruit if you prefer—so it’s a great staple to keep in your recipe rotation.

More Delicious Recipes for Easter

• Chocolate Dipped Peanut Butter Eggs
• Holiday Ham {Perfect for Easter and Christmas}
• Chocolate Dipped Coconut Cream Easter Eggs
• Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
• Maple Balsamic Roasted Carrots
• The Best Dinner Rolls

Step-by-Step Photos for How to Make Sour Cream Ambrosia Salad

Frequently Asked Questions about Sour Cream Ambrosia Salad

What is ambrosia salad?

Ambrosia is a classic Southern-style fruit salad, often called Five Cup Salad. Common ingredients include mandarin oranges, pineapple, shredded coconut, and mini marshmallows combined with a creamy base such as mayonnaise, whipped cream, sour cream, yogurt, or cottage cheese. Some variations add nuts or maraschino cherries.

What is a good substitute for sour cream?

Sour cream provides a mild tang that balances the sweetness of the fruit and marshmallows. If you prefer, substitute plain or Greek yogurt for similar tang and texture. Whipped cream can be used for a lighter, sweeter result but use it only if serving immediately, as fruit juices can make the salad runny over time.

Can I make ambrosia salad ahead of time?

Yes. Making the salad a few hours or even the day before allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier the next day. Keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

What other fruits work well in this salad?

Ambrosia is very adaptable. Fresh fruit can replace canned, or you can use fruit cocktail, sliced grapes, chopped strawberries, or mandarin segments depending on preference. Just be mindful that juicier fruit may thin the dressing over time.

How should I store the salad?

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Stir gently before serving if any liquid separates.

Chef’s tools for Ambrosia Salad

• Can opener
• Colander or fine mesh strainer
• Mixing spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Serving bowl with lid

If you love Ambrosia Salad, you’ll love these…

Orange Tapioca Jello Salad

Aunt Jan’s Wheat Salad

Five Minute Orange Fluff Jello Salad

Reader Favorites

Classic Meatloaf Recipe…just like mom used to make.

Lunch Lady Cafeteria Rolls {Step by Step Pictures and Instructions….NO MIXER NEEDED}

Swig Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

Other Ambrosia Salad Recipes

• Pistachio Ambrosia Salad

• Creamy 6-Cup Ambrosia Fruit Salad

• Ambrosia Salad