Try a new take on dessert with this sweet marshmallow salad recipe!

Light, sweet, and creamy marshmallow salad has tangy pineapple tidbits, mandarin oranges, and coconut mixed in sour cream, and a generous portion of mini marshmallows!

Bring on the summer of simple salads with this retro-fave marshmallow fruit salad recipe!

Marshmallow Salad in a bowl

Delicious Side Dish or Dessert

  • Is it a side or a dessert? Marshmallow salad can be either and the options for mix-ins is limitless!
  • Five ingredients, one bowl, and two steps are all it takes to whip up this make-ahead picnic and party favorite!
  • Fun, fresh, and colorful marshmallow salad is easy enough for every day, but an elegant addition to any brunch, wedding, or baby shower!

Marshmallow Salad vs Ambrosia Salad

In the South, Ambrosia (AKA food of the Gods) salad is typically made during the holidays. Marshmallow salad, which is nearly identical to ambrosia salad, can be made any time of year, especially when fresh fruit is scarce. It’s a budget-friendly recipe that’s always a welcome crowd-pleaser!

sour cream , pineapple , coconut , mandarin and marshmallows in bowls with labels with Marshmallow Salad

Ingredients and Variations

Fruit: Canned pineapple, mandarin oranges, fruit cocktail, peaches, and pears all work. Fresh blueberries, strawberries, grapes (cut them in half to avoid a choking hazard), apples, and bananas are great, too!

Marshmallows: Add some marshmallow crème (AKA fluff) to the sour cream for an extra creamy salad. Choose white or pastel-colored mini marshmallows over large ones (but they can be cut into quarters if minis aren’t available.

Coconut: Sweetened or unsweetened flaked coconut should be toasted in a dry pan until the edges become golden as this will intensify their flavor. Not a fan of coconut? Use crushed-up pretzels or homemade granola instead.

Dressing: Sour cream offers light coverage with a little tang to complement the natural sugars in the fruit. One cup is a starting point, if you want your salad more or less creamy, simply adjust the sour cream. Feel free to fold in some vanilla Jell-O, cool whip, or even some cream cheese for a thicker texture.

Pro Tip!

Freeze the juice from canned fruit into ice cubes and use them to sweeten cocktails or iced tea!

Optional Add-Ins

Maraschino cherries, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, walnuts or slivered almonds, currants, and even mini chocolate chips can be added to marshmallow salad! The possibilities are endless!

How to Make Marshmallow Salad

Easy marshmallow salad can be different every time you make it, even little chefs love to make and eat marshmallow salad!

  1. Drain canned fruit thoroughly and add to a large bowl with remaining ingredients, folding in the marshmallows last.
  2. Cover and chill overnight.
Marshmallow Salad in bowls

Storing Marshmallow Fruit Salad

Make marshmallow salad up to a day ahead and it will taste even better! Keep leftovers in a covered container for up to three days and stir before serving (add fresh ingredients, if desired). It’s not recommended to freeze marshmallow salad since it won’t thaw well at all. But it’s so easy to make, simply start fresh!

Marshmallow Salad with coconut in a bowl

Salads Perfect For Entertaining!

Have you tried this Marshmallow Salad recipe? Leave a comment and rating below!

Marshmallow Salad in a bowl
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Marshmallow Salad

It's so easy to make this marshmallow salad recipe! Serve it as a side dish or dessert for holiday dinner or any occasion!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Chill 12 hours
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Author Candace

Ingredients  

Instructions 

  • In a large bowl, combine pineapple chunks, oranges, coconut, and sour cream. Fold in marshmallows.
  • Cover and refrigerate overnight. Serve chilled.

Notes

  • Marshmallow salad can be made up to a day ahead, and will taste even better!
  • Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container for up to three days.
  • Do not freeze marshmallow salad.
5 from 3 votes↑ Click stars to rate now!
Or to leave a comment, click here!

Nutrition Information

Calories: 178 | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 36mg | Potassium: 235mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 629IU | Vitamin C: 18mg | Calcium: 56mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information does not include optional ingredients or garnish and is an estimate. It may change based on actual ingredients and cooking methods used.

Course Salad
Cuisine American

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About the author

I am a wife, mother of two, and professional accountant. I love fantastic food, and it is so often the center of our lives, from everyday dinner, to family gatherings, and special evenings at fabulous restaurants. I have always loved cooking and baking, with my mom and grandma, and now, with my daughter and son. I love trying new recipes while enjoying my favorites too. I’m so happy to share them with you.
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