Fluffy Ambrosia
A light, fruity dessert combining canned fruit, bananas, oranges, marshmallows, and whipped cream, topped with coconut. Perfect for a quick, refreshing treat ideal for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine fruit cocktail, sliced banana, orange sections, nuts, and marshmallows in a bowl.
- Fold the fruit mixture into the whipped cream until well combined.
- Chill the mixture for about an hour to set.
- Spoon the ambrosia into serving dishes.
- Sprinkle shredded coconut over the top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for half of the whipped cream. You can also use fresh fruits like berries or peaches for a twist instead of canned fruit cocktail. If you're nut-free, omit the walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Fluffy Ambrosia as a refreshing side dish for barbecues or potlucks. It complements rich entrees like Bourbon And Pecan Pie perfectly. For a complete dessert experience, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of Grecian Orange Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The marshmallows may soften over time, but the flavors will meld nicely. Avoid freezing the ambrosia, as the texture will change once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fluffy Ambrosia contains roughly 814 calories, with 13g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (99% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (91% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 624mg per serving (27% 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 use different fruits in this ambrosia?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite fruits such as kiwi, strawberries, or pineapple. Just ensure that any fresh fruits are well-drained to maintain the right consistency. This allows for personalization while keeping the dish vibrant and fresh.
How long does the ambrosia need to chill?
Chilling the ambrosia for about an hour is recommended to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to set slightly. However, you can chill it longer if you prefer a firmer texture. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing other refrigerator odors.
Can I make ambrosia ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ambrosia a day in advance. Just keep it stored in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. However, it's best to add the whipped cream and marshmallows shortly before serving to maintain their texture and prevent them from becoming soggy.
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).