Ambrosia Spread-Fruit Dip
A sweet and creamy fruit dip with mandarin oranges, pineapple, coconut, and almonds, perfect for parties or as a spread on baked goods and fruit platters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir together the drained mandarin orange sections, cream cheese, toasted coconut, and chopped almonds.
- Serve with fresh fruit or use as a spread on Date Nut Roll or Banana Bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dip, consider blending the cream cheese until smooth before mixing in the other ingredients. If you want to reduce sugar, opt for unsweetened cream cheese, or substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. You can also try adding a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. This ambrosia spread pairs beautifully with Sunshine Fruit Dip for a vibrant fruit platter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this ambrosia spread chilled alongside a platter of fresh fruit like strawberries, apple slices, or grapes. It also works wonderfully as a sweet spread on Date Nut Roll or Banana Bread. For a fun twist, consider pairing it with Quick Butterscotch Buns for a delightful brunch treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together nicely over time. If you plan to reuse the dip, give it a good stir before serving to refresh its texture. Avoid freezing, as the ingredients may separate upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ambrosia Spread-Fruit Dip contains roughly 529 calories, with 17g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use fresh oranges instead of canned?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh oranges! Just make sure to peel and segment them properly, and be aware that fresh oranges may have a slightly different texture compared to the canned variety, which is softer and juicier.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
To make this ambrosia spread vegan, substitute the pineapple cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative. Additionally, ensure the toasted coconut and chopped almonds are unsweetened and check for any added ingredients that may contain animal products.
What can I serve this dip with besides fruit?
In addition to fresh fruit, this ambrosia spread can be used as a delightful topping on pancakes or waffles. You could also serve it with graham crackers or use it in a sandwich with nut butter for a sweet twist.
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).