Ambrosia Freeze
A refreshing frozen dessert with creamy orange and coconut flavors, perfect for hot days and gatherings, delighting fruit lovers and those seeking a cool treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat together cream cheese and confectioners sugar; gradually beat in sour cream and orange juice concentrate.
- Whip the cream until stiff peaks form; fold into the cream cheese mixture.
- Add drained fruit cocktail and mandarin orange sections; mix gently.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a 9 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Freeze until firm, about 4 hours or overnight.
- Let stand at room temperature about 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve on lettuce leaves and sprinkle with toasted coconut.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to the cream cheese mixture. If fresh fruit is available, substitute it for the canned fruit for a fresher taste. For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream. You can also swap the coconut for chopped nuts if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ambrosia Freeze on crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing contrast in flavors. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a light dessert after a hearty meal. For an extra touch, consider drizzling some honey or a fruit coulis over the top before serving. It also makes a delightful addition to a summer picnic or potluck.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one month. To enjoy again, let the Ambrosia Freeze thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. Avoid refreezing once it has been thawed, as this may affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ambrosia Freeze contains roughly 480 calories, with 3g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.
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 Ambrosia Freeze ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert can be prepared a day or two in advance. Just make sure to keep it stored in the freezer until you're ready to serve. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly before cutting and serving.
Can I use different fruits in this recipe?
Yes, you can customize the fruit mix based on your preferences or seasonal availability. Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or pineapple chunks can be great alternatives to the canned fruit. Just ensure the fruits are well-drained to maintain the texture of the freeze.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, for a dairy-free version, use non-dairy cream cheese, coconut yogurt, and a dairy-free whipped topping. Make sure to check product labels for any potential allergens. This way, you can still enjoy a delicious frozen treat without dairy.
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).