Ambrosia Dessert
A creamy, tropical dessert combining pineapple, mandarin oranges, marshmallows, and whipped topping on a graham cracker crust, perfect for family gatherings and summer occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the pineapple, reserving the liquid. Add cold water to the liquid to measure 1 cup.
- Stir boiling water into the Jell-O in a large bowl until completely dissolved, about 2 minutes.
- Stir in the measured liquid. Refrigerate for 1 1/4 hours or until slightly thickened, similar to beaten egg whites.
- Stir in the thawed Cool Whip with a wire whisk until smooth.
- Refrigerate for 10 minutes or until the mixture will mound.
- Stir in drained mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and shredded coconut.
- Pour the mixture over the graham cracker crumb mixture and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whipped cream instead of Cool Whip. You can also substitute the orange Jell-O with other flavors like pineapple or strawberry for a different twist. If you want a crunchier texture, add chopped nuts or use crushed cookies instead of graham cracker crumbs. Make sure to mix the ingredients gently to maintain the fluffiness.
Serving Suggestions
This Ambrosia Dessert is perfect as a light finish to any meal or as a potluck dish. Serve it chilled for the best flavor and texture. It pairs beautifully with a slice of Luscious Lemon Heaven for a delightful contrast. Consider adding fresh fruit on the side for extra freshness and color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dessert may become slightly firmer as it sits, so give it a gentle stir before serving again. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the whipped topping may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ambrosia Dessert contains roughly 761 calories, with 8g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (63% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 558mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, Ambrosia Dessert can be prepared a day in advance. Just assemble the layers and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set. However, avoid adding the marshmallows until just before serving to keep them from becoming too soft.
What can I substitute for mandarin oranges?
You can substitute mandarin oranges with fresh orange segments or even diced peaches if desired. Just ensure the fruit is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the dessert.
Is there a way to make this dessert healthier?
To make a healthier version of Ambrosia Dessert, you can use low-fat or sugar-free Jell-O and Cool Whip. Additionally, consider adding more fresh fruit like berries or using plain Greek yogurt instead of whipped topping for added protein and less sugar.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).