Natural Ambrosia Dessert With Fruits and Whipped Cream

An Ambrosia Dessert With Natural Ingredients

When I set out to make a more natural version of the classic Ambrosia dessert, I wanted to focus on using ingredients that are not only delicious but also free from unnecessary additives and preservatives. The result is a refreshing and flavorful treat that you can feel good about serving to family and friends. By using fresh or frozen cherries instead of maraschino cherries, we avoid the artificial colors and additives while still capturing that perfect balance of sweetness. This dessert looks especially impressive when served in fancy glasses, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Traditional Ambrosia salad is a classic dessert made from simple and sweet ingredients, typically combining canned fruits like mandarin oranges and pineapple with mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries. These ingredients are often mixed into a creamy base made from whipped topping (such as Cool Whip) and sometimes yogurt or sour cream.

Did You Know?

Whipped Cream: Made from heavy cream, whipped cream adds a rich and airy texture to desserts like our Traditional Ambrosia. It's not only a delicious topping but also a versatile ingredient that enhances the creaminess and flavor of sweet treats. Incorporating whipped cream into your recipes can elevate the taste and presentation of your desserts.

Yield:
8 servings

Ingredients:
Ingredients
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream
1 cup pineapple chunks , naturally sweetened (fresh or canned, drained)
1 cup mandarin orange segments, naturally sweetened (fresh or canned, drained)
1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, cut in half
1 cup seedless grapes, halved
1/2 cup shredded natural coconut
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1 cup Dandies mini marshmallows (available in health food section)

Instructions:
Prepare Whipped Cream:
In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Personal Tip: Use cold cream straight from the fridge for the best whipping results.

Combine Ingredients:
Gently fold the sour cream into the whipped cream until well combined.
Add the pineapple chunks, mandarin orange segments, fresh or frozen cherries, halved grapes, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, and Dandies mini marshmallows to the bowl.
Personal Tip: Use a light hand when folding to keep the whipped cream airy.

Mix and Chill:
Gently fold the ingredients together until the fruits and marshmallows are evenly coated with the creamy whipped cream mixture.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Personal Tip: For an even deeper flavor, let the dessert chill overnight.

Serve:
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Personal Tip: Present the Ambrosia in individual dessert glasses or bowls for an elegant touch.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320, Protein: 3g, Carbohydrates: 36g, Sugars: 25g, Total Fat: 19g, Saturated Fat: 11g, Sodium: 50mg, Fiber: 3g

Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money

1. Whip Your Own Cream: Making whipped cream at home is more cost-effective than buying pre-made versions. Use heavy whipping cream and a bit of powdered sugar to create a delicious and airy whipped topping for your Ambrosia.
2. Use Fresh Pineapple: Instead of canned pineapple, consider using fresh pineapple. It may be more cost-effective and offers better flavor and texture. Purchase a whole pineapple and cut it into chunks to ensure freshness.
3. Seasonal Citrus Fruits: Buy mandarin oranges when they are in season to save on costs and enjoy peak flavor. Seasonal fruits are usually less expensive and provide the best taste for your dishes.
4. Fresh or Frozen Cherries: We use fresh or frozen cherries in this recipe instead of maraschino cherries, avoiding the artificial colors and preservatives found in maraschinos. Fresh cherries provide a more natural sweetness and richer flavor.
5. Homemade Sweetened Coconut Alternative: Instead of using sweetened coconut, opt for unsweetened shredded coconut to keep the natural flavor without adding any sugar. The natural sweetness from the fruits in the Ambrosia will complement the coconut, providing a perfectly balanced, healthier option.
6. Bulk Buying Nuts: Purchase nuts like pecans or walnuts in bulk to save money. Store them in the freezer to keep them fresh longer. Nuts add a delightful crunch and richness to the Ambrosia.
7. Dandies Mini Marshmallows: Opt for Dandies mini marshmallows, found in the health food section. These vegan marshmallows are free from artificial ingredients, making them a cleaner option for your dessert.
8. Prepare in Advance: Make the Ambrosia Dessert a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors meld together beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste. This also saves time on the day you plan to serve it.
9. Portion Control: Serve the Ambrosia Dessert in small, individual cups or bowls to manage portion sizes. This helps prevent overeating and ensures that everyone gets an equal share of the delicious dessert.
10. Reusable Containers: Store leftovers in reusable airtight containers to maintain freshness and reduce waste. Using eco-friendly containers is not only better for the environment but also cost-effective in the long run.

Let's Talk About Watching Your Labels on Products You Buy

One of the easiest ways to improve the quality of your diet is by paying close attention to food labels. Many processed foods contain artificial additives, preservatives, and colors that you can avoid by choosing more natural ingredients. In this recipe, we replaced maraschino cherries with fresh or frozen cherries, avoiding the dyes and chemicals often found in processed versions. Additionally, using Dandies marshmallows ensures you're opting for a product made without corn syrup or artificial additives. By being mindful of what goes into your food, you can enjoy delicious meals and desserts that are both healthier and free from unnecessary chemicals. Always check for added sugars, sodium, and ingredients you can't pronounce—simpler is usually better!