Ambrosia Dip
Ambrosia Dip is a creamy, fruity dessert with a delightful blend of pineapple, cherries, and coconut, all folded into smooth cream cheese. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, it offers a sweet, tropical flavor that pairs well with fresh fruit, cookies, or cake. A light and heavenly treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the maraschino cherries.
- Drain the crushed pineapple.
- Place the cream cheese, cherries, sugar, coconut, and pineapple in a food processor.
- Process until well blended or mix thoroughly until smooth.
- Chill for 1 to 2 hours before serving.
- Serve with fresh fruit, cookies, or cake.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter dip, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese instead of fat-free. If you prefer a sweeter dip, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a drizzle of honey. You can also mix in some chopped nuts for added texture. For those who dislike coconut, feel free to omit it and replace it with additional fruit.
Serving Suggestions
This ambrosia dip is delightful served with fresh fruit like strawberries, pineapple, or apple slices. It also pairs wonderfully with cookies or cake for a sweet treat. For a fun twist, serve it alongside a platter of Homemade Pimento Cheese or with Dill Pickle Pick-Ups for a contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The dip may thicken slightly; if so, you can stir in a little pineapple juice to restore its creamy texture. Avoid freezing this dip, as the cream cheese may separate and change texture upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ambrosia Dip contains roughly 169 calories, with 3g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (10% 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 dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Chilling overnight enhances the flavors, making it an excellent choice for parties or gatherings.
What can I use instead of maraschino cherries?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute maraschino cherries with fresh pitted cherries or even chopped strawberries for a fruity twist. This will give the dip a unique taste while maintaining its vibrant color.
Is this dip suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this ambrosia dip is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients. It's a great option for those following vegetarian recipes, making it a perfect addition to any gathering or potluck.
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).