Name: Cranberry Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 6 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 4 tbsp powdered sugar; 12 oz fresh cranberries; 20 oz pineapple chunks; 2 cups sweetened coconut flakes; 2 cups miniature marshmallows

Cranberry ambrosia delight is a vibrant and refreshing dessert that perfectly blends sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors. This festive treat is ideal for holiday gatherings or any special occasion where you want to impress your guests with a unique dish.

Photos of Cranberry Ambrosia Salad Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found, you might need to check the availability of fresh cranberries since they are seasonal. Make sure to get heavy whipping cream and sweetened coconut flakes as these specific versions will impact the final taste and texture of your dessert.

Ingredients for Cranberry Ambrosia Delight

heavy whipping cream: This is the primary ingredient for creating the creamy base.

powdered sugar: Adds a smooth sweetness to the cream.

cranberries: Fresh fruit that provides a tangy contrast.

pineapple chunks: These add a tropical sweetness and juicy texture.

sweetened coconut flakes: Provides a chewy and sweet element.

miniature marshmallows: Adds a fun, chewy texture and sweetness.

One reader, Jae Waters says:

Cranberry ambrosia delight is a heavenly treat! The combination of fresh cranberries, sweet pineapple, and creamy whipped topping is simply divine. The coconut flakes and marshmallows add a delightful texture. Perfect for any festive occasion!

Jae Waters

Key Techniques for Crafting Cranberry Ambrosia Delight

How to whip cream: Use a hand mixer to whip the heavy cream until it holds soft peaks. Continue whipping until it forms stiff peaks. How to fold ingredients: Gently stir in the cranberries, pineapple, coconut flakes, and marshmallows into the whipped cream to avoid deflating it.

How To Make Cranberry Ambrosia Salad

Enjoy food for the gods with this creamy cranberry ambrosia salad, made crunchy coconut flakes, and a sweet-tart blend of cranberries and pineapples.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking:

Chill Time: 1 minute

Total: 6 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupsheavy whipping cream,or 4 cups of Cool Whip
4tbsppowdered sugar
12ozfresh cranberries,or pulsed
20ozpineapple chunks,drained
2cupssweetened coconut flakes
2cupsminiature marshmallows

Instructions

Using a hand mixer, whip the heavy cream until it holds soft peaks. Then, add in the powdered sugar.
Whip until it makes a stiff whipped cream, then add in the cranberries, pineapple, coconut flakes, and marshmallow, then stir gently.
Serve, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Nutrition

Calories: 303.89kcal
Fat: 23.93g
Saturated Fat: 17.25g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.65g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.68g
Carbohydrates: 23.55g
Fiber: 4.28g
Sugar: 15.35g
Protein: 2.30g
Cholesterol: 54.34mg
Sodium: 28.07mg
Calcium: 38.15mg
Potassium: 182.74mg
Iron: 0.71mg
Vitamin A: 165.30µg
Vitamin C: 26.81mg

Helpful Hint for Perfecting Cranberry Ambrosia Delight

For a smoother texture, pulse the cranberries in a food processor a few times before adding them to the mixture. This will help distribute their tartness more evenly throughout the ambrosia.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Ambrosia Salad

Use pre-whipped cream: Save time by using pre-whipped cream instead of whipping it yourself.

Pre-cut pineapple: Opt for pre-cut pineapple chunks to avoid the hassle of cutting a whole pineapple.

Frozen cranberries: Use frozen cranberries if fresh ones are not available; they work just as well and save prep time.

Pre-mixed ingredients: Look for pre-mixed coconut flakes and marshmallows to reduce measuring and mixing time.

One-bowl method: Combine all ingredients in one bowl to minimize cleanup and streamline the process.

Substitute Ingredients For Cranberry Ambrosia Salad Recipe

heavy whipping cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream provides a similar rich and creamy texture, making it a great dairy-free alternative.
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Granulated sugar can be used in place of powdered sugar, though it may slightly alter the texture. You can also blend granulated sugar to make a finer consistency.
fresh cranberries - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries can be rehydrated and used if fresh cranberries are not available, though they will be sweeter and less tart.
pineapple chunks - Substitute with mandarin oranges: Mandarin oranges offer a similar sweetness and juiciness, making them a good alternative to pineapple chunks.
sweetened coconut flakes - Substitute with unsweetened coconut flakes: Unsweetened coconut flakes can be used if you prefer a less sweet dish. You can also add a bit of sugar to match the sweetness.
miniature marshmallows - Substitute with marshmallow fluff: Marshmallow fluff can be used to provide a similar texture and sweetness, though it will be more spreadable.

Presentation Ideas for Cranberry Ambrosia Delight

Use a crystal bowl: Present the cranberry ambrosia delight in an elegant crystal bowl to highlight the vibrant colors of the cranberries, pineapple chunks, and coconut flakes.
Garnish with fresh cranberries: Add a few whole fresh cranberries on top for a pop of color and to hint at the main ingredient.
Add a mint sprig: Place a small sprig of fresh mint on top to add a touch of green and a refreshing aroma.
Serve with a silver spoon: Use a polished silver spoon to enhance the luxurious feel of the dish.
Chill before serving: Ensure the cranberry ambrosia delight is well-chilled before serving to maintain its refreshing quality and texture.
Use a white plate: Place the crystal bowl on a large white plate to create a clean, sophisticated presentation that draws attention to the dessert.
Drizzle with honey: Lightly drizzle a thin stream of honey over the top for a touch of sweetness and a glossy finish.
Add edible flowers: Decorate the plate with a few edible flowers to elevate the visual appeal and add a touch of elegance.
Serve smaller portion sizes: Offer smaller, individual portions to maintain a refined presentation and allow guests to savor each bite.
Use a decorative napkin: Place a beautifully folded decorative napkin next to the plate to complete the sophisticated presentation.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Ambrosia Salad

To store cranberry ambrosia delight, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. The whipped cream may lose some of its fluffiness over time, but the overall taste will remain delicious.
If you want to freeze the ambrosia for later enjoyment, prepare the recipe as directed but leave out the marshmallows. Place the mixture in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months.
When ready to serve the frozen ambrosia, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, gently fold in the marshmallows and give the mixture a quick stir to redistribute the ingredients. The texture may be slightly different from freshly made ambrosia, but it will still be a tasty treat.
For best results, consume the thawed ambrosia within 2 days. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as mold or an off smell, discard the ambrosia immediately.
To maintain the quality and freshness of the cranberry ambrosia delight, always use clean utensils when serving and avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods.

Interesting Trivia About Cranberry Ambrosia Salad

A fun fact about this cranberry ambrosia delight is that it combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of pineapple and marshmallows, creating a balanced and refreshing dessert.

Budget-Friendly: Making Ambrosia Salad at Home

The cranberries and pineapple chunks are the most expensive ingredients, but the rest are relatively affordable. The heavy whipping cream and sweetened coconut flakes add a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. The miniature marshmallows are inexpensive and add volume. Overall, this dessert is moderately cost-effective.

Overall Verdict: 7/10
Approximate Cost: $15-$20

Is This Ambrosia Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?

The cranberry ambrosia delight recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

Heavy whipping cream: High in saturated fat and calories, which can contribute to heart disease and weight gain when consumed in excess.
Powdered sugar: Adds empty calories and refined carbohydrates, which can lead to blood sugar spikes and crashes.
Sweetened coconut flakes and marshmallows: These ingredients are high in added sugars, which can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues when consumed in large amounts.

On the positive side, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients:

Fresh cranberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, which can support overall health and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Pineapple chunks are a good source of vitamin C, manganese, and enzymes that aid digestion.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the heavy whipping cream with a lower-fat alternative, such as light coconut milk or Greek yogurt, to reduce the saturated fat and calorie content.
Use unsweetened coconut flakes instead of sweetened ones to reduce the added sugar content.
Swap the powdered sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, or simply reduce the amount used.
Replace half of the marshmallows with additional fresh fruit, such as diced apples or mandarin oranges, to increase the fiber and nutrient content while reducing the added sugar.

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of the cranberry ambrosia delight that still satisfies your sweet tooth and provides a delightful texture.

Our Editor's Opinion on Cranberry Ambrosia Delight

This cranberry ambrosia delight is a refreshing twist on a classic dessert. The combination of tart cranberries with sweet pineapple chunks and coconut flakes creates a delightful balance of flavors. The miniature marshmallows add a fun, chewy texture, while the freshly whipped cream provides a rich, airy base. However, consider folding the cranberries in gently to avoid breaking them, ensuring a more visually appealing dish. Overall, it's a festive and satisfying treat perfect for any occasion.

Enhance Your Cranberry Ambrosia Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the crispy, caramelized edges of brussels sprouts paired with the tangy sweetness of a balsamic glaze. This side dish will add a savory contrast to the creamy and fruity notes of your Cranberry Ambrosia Delight.

Maple-Glazed Carrots: Maple-Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of carrots enhanced by a rich maple syrup glaze will harmonize beautifully with the tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut in your dessert. A touch of cinnamon can add a warm, comforting note.

Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin: Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin: A succulent pork tenderloin encrusted with fresh herbs and garlic will provide a savory, aromatic counterpart to the sweet and creamy Cranberry Ambrosia Delight. The tender meat will melt in your mouth, creating a delightful balance.

Butternut Squash Soup: Butternut Squash Soup: A velvety butternut squash soup with hints of nutmeg and ginger will offer a warm, comforting start to your meal. The earthy flavors of the squash will complement the bright, fruity elements of your dessert.

Quinoa and Kale Salad: Quinoa and Kale Salad: A vibrant quinoa and kale salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette will add a refreshing, nutritious touch to your meal. The crunchy nuts and dried fruits in the salad will echo the textures and flavors of your Cranberry Ambrosia Delight.

Similar Recipes to Try Besides Cranberry Ambrosia Delight

Tropical Fruit Salad: Dive into a refreshing mix of mango, kiwi, pineapple, and papaya. Tossed with a hint of lime juice and a sprinkle of mint, this salad is a burst of tropical flavors.

Classic Ambrosia Salad: A timeless favorite featuring mandarin oranges, pineapple, marshmallows, and coconut flakes. Folded into a creamy mixture of sour cream and whipped topping, it's a nostalgic treat.

Berry Cheesecake Parfait: Layered with graham cracker crumbs, cream cheese filling, and a medley of fresh berries. This parfait is a delightful combination of creamy and fruity goodness.

Pineapple Coconut Sorbet: A refreshing sorbet made with pineapple juice, coconut milk, and a touch of honey. Perfect for a hot day, this sorbet is a tropical escape in every bite.

Mango Coconut Rice Pudding: A creamy rice pudding infused with coconut milk and topped with juicy mango slices. This dessert is a comforting and exotic twist on a classic.

Suggested Starters and Entrées to Serve with This Ambrosia Salad

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a classic choice for any gathering. Imagine cremini mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushroom caps are then baked until golden and bubbly, creating a delightful bite-sized treat. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, making them an irresistible appetizer.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a vibrant and fresh appetizer that never fails to impress. Start with toasted baguette slices topped with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a burst of flavor. The crunchy bread paired with the juicy tomato mixture creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon and the aromatic notes of fresh herbs. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and a blend of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Grilling the chicken gives it a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. This dish is not only flavorful but also healthy, making it a great option for a balanced meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious main course that can be customized to suit any palate. The bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat (such as beef or turkey), rice, tomatoes, and spices. Baking the peppers allows the flavors to meld together, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. For a vegetarian twist, you can substitute the meat with quinoa or lentils. Serve these stuffed peppers with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a complete and hearty dinner.

Why trust this Cranberry Ambrosia Salad Recipe:

This recipe for cranberry ambrosia delight is a trusted favorite because it combines the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. The fresh cranberries add a delightful tartness, while the pineapple chunks and sweetened coconut flakes bring a tropical twist. The heavy whipping cream creates a rich, creamy base that ties all the flavors together. Plus, the addition of miniature marshmallows adds a fun, chewy texture. This recipe is easy to follow and has been tested to ensure delicious results every time.

Share your thoughts and experiences with the Cranberry Ambrosia Salad Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How long does it take to make cranberry ambrosia delight?

It usually takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare this dish. The most time-consuming part is whipping the cream, but once that's done, everything else comes together quickly.

Can I use canned cranberries instead of fresh ones?

Fresh cranberries are best for this recipe because they add a nice tartness and texture. However, if you can't find fresh cranberries, you can use canned ones, just make sure to drain them well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make cranberry ambrosia delight a few hours ahead of time. Just keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve. The flavors meld together nicely if it sits for a bit.

What can I use as a substitute for heavy whipping cream?

If you don't have heavy whipping cream, you can use store-bought whipped topping as a substitute. It won't be exactly the same, but it will still be delicious.

Is this dish suitable for people with nut allergies?

Yes, this recipe doesn't contain any nuts, so it's safe for people with nut allergies. Just make sure all your ingredients, especially the marshmallows and coconut flakes, are processed in a nut-free facility if cross-contamination is a concern.