Molded Ambrosia
Molded Ambrosia is a delightful, creamy dessert combining fruity flavors with a crunchy graham cracker crust. Its light, fluffy texture is complemented by sweet oranges, pineapple, and coconut, making it perfect for special occasions or refreshing summer treats that appeal to both fruit lovers and dessert enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted margarine; reserve one-third for topping.
- Press the remaining crumb mixture into an 8 x 8 x 2-inch pan.
- Drain crushed pineapple, reserving the syrup.
- Dissolve orange Jell-O and sugar in hot water; stir in the reserved pineapple syrup.
- Chill the mixture until it is partially set.
- Add sour cream and vanilla; whip until fluffy.
- Fold in pineapple, orange sections, and coconut.
- Pour the mixture over the prepared crumbs in the pan.
- Sprinkle the reserved crumbs over the top.
- Chill until the dessert is firm.
- Cut into squares and serve.
- Trim with maraschino cherries if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. If you prefer a different fruit, try using diced peaches or strawberries in place of the orange sections. Make sure to drain the pineapple well to avoid a watery dessert. You can also substitute the graham cracker crumbs with crushed vanilla wafers for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Molded Ambrosia chilled, and consider garnishing with maraschino cherries for a pop of color. This dessert pairs beautifully with The "Original" Key Lime Pie for a refreshing summer meal. For a complete menu, complement it with a light salad or grilled chicken to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dessert is best served cold, so there's no need to reheat. If you want to enhance the texture, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molded Ambrosia contains roughly 379 calories, with 2g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% 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 a different flavor of Jell-O?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of Jell-O, such as lemon or berry, to create a unique taste. Just ensure the flavor pairs well with the other ingredients, particularly the fruits you choose to include.
How long does it take for the dessert to set?
The chilling time for Molded Ambrosia typically ranges from 4 to 6 hours or until firm. It's best to prepare it a day in advance to allow adequate time for setting, ensuring the layers hold together nicely when cut.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! Molded Ambrosia can be made a day ahead of time. Just cover it with plastic wrap after it has set and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully for a more delicious outcome.
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).