Cranberry Ambrosia is a festive twist on a classic fruit salad that brings a burst of color and flavor to any holiday table. This dish combines tart cranberries with sweet citrus, creamy marshmallows, and a touch of coconut for a refreshing yet indulgent treat. It’s a perfect balance of textures and tastes that everyone will love.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Cranberry Ambrosia, we gather fresh and canned fruits, marshmallows, nuts, and a few key flavorings. Each ingredient plays a vital role in balancing tartness, sweetness, texture, and aroma for a holiday dish that truly shines.
Fresh Cranberries
- 2 cups fresh cranberries — Rinse under cold water and pick out any stems or blemished berries. Their bright, tart flavor forms the foundation of our ambrosia.
Canned Fruit and Juices
- 1 cup canned pineapple tidbits — Drain well to avoid watery salad.
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments — Use canned for consistent sweetness or fresh for extra zest.
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice — Adds a subtle tropical tang.
- 1/4 cup orange juice — Enhances citrus brightness.
| Ingredient | Preparation | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Pineapple tidbits | Drained | 1 cup |
| Mandarin orange segments | Canned or fresh | 1 cup |
| Pineapple juice | – | 1/4 cup |
| Orange juice | – | 1/4 cup |
Marshmallows and Nuts
- 1 cup mini marshmallows — Provide a creamy, fluffy texture contrast.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans — Toasted for enhanced nutty flavor and crunch.
Additional Flavorings
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut — Adds tropical flair and chewiness.
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt — Gives the dressing a rich, tangy creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar — Optional, to balance tartness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract — Deepens overall flavor harmony.
Together these ingredients create the vibrant taste and satisfying textures that define our delightful Cranberry Ambrosia salad.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Cranberry Ambrosia Recipe with ease and precision, having the right equipment on hand is essential. Here is a detailed list of all the tools we recommend using. Each piece helps streamline the process while ensuring the freshest, most vibrant flavors and textures.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | To combine all ingredients evenly |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | For precise measurement of liquids and solids |
| Sharp Knife | To chop fresh cranberries or peel citrus if needed |
| Cutting Board | A safe surface for slicing and dicing |
| Mixing Spoon or Spatula | To fold ingredients gently without breaking fruit |
| Colander | To rinse fresh cranberries thoroughly |
| Serving Dish or Bowl | To present the Cranberry Ambrosia attractively |
| Toaster Oven or Skillet | Optional, for lightly toasting nuts or coconut |
Additional Tips for Equipment Use
- Large Mixing Bowl: Choose a bowl large enough to hold all ingredients comfortably, allowing room for thorough mixing without spilling.
- Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: We prefer a serrated knife for cutting citrus and a sturdy wooden or plastic board for safety.
- Spatula or Mixing Spoon: Use silicone or wooden utensils to maintain the fluffiness of the mini marshmallows and avoid crushing delicate fruit segments.
By gathering these tools beforehand, we set ourselves up for success, making the preparation of this bright and creamy cranberry salad smooth and enjoyable.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Cranberry Ambrosia ahead of time enhances its flavors and allows the ingredients to meld perfectly. Follow these precise steps to ensure a fresh, vibrant dish ready to impress at your holiday table.
Step 1: Combine Ingredients in Advance
We recommend mixing all ingredients except the mini marshmallows and toasted nuts at least 2 to 4 hours before serving. This resting time helps the tart cranberries soak in the sweetness of pineapple juice and mandarin oranges, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Step 2: Storing Properly
Transfer the mixture to an airtight container or cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors. Keep the ambrosia refrigerated at a consistent temperature of 36°F to 40°F for optimal freshness.
Step 3: Adding Marshmallows and Nuts Just Before Serving
To preserve the perfect chewy texture of the mini marshmallows and the crunch of the toasted nuts, we suggest adding these right before serving. Stir them gently into the chilled ambrosia to avoid them becoming soggy.
Make-Ahead Timing and Storage Guide
| Task | Time Before Serving | Storage Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mixing ingredients (without marshmallows & nuts) | 2-4 hours before | Airtight container | Enhances flavor melding |
| Refrigeration temperature | Throughout preparation | Refrigerator (36°F-40°F) | Maintains freshness and texture |
| Adding marshmallows & nuts | 10-15 minutes before serving | Mix directly in salad | Preserves texture contrast |
Important Tips
- Do not add sour cream or Greek yogurt too far in advance, as it can alter the texture.
- If you prefer a sweeter ambrosia, add honey or sugar during the initial mixing step to allow it to dissolve properly.
- Toast the coconut and nuts freshly just before serving if you want an extra crunchy bite.
“Make-ahead preparations not only save time on the day of your event but also allow the Cranberry Ambrosia to deliver its fullest flavor and vibrant texture.“
By following these Make-Ahead Instructions, we ensure your Cranberry Ambrosia is as delightful and refreshing as if it were made moments before serving.
Prep
To make our Cranberry Ambrosia truly shine, we start with careful preparation of each ingredient. Precise prepping ensures vibrant flavors and perfect textures in every bite.
Preparing the Cranberries
We begin by rinsing fresh cranberries under cold running water using a fine colander. This removes any dirt or debris. Next, we inspect the cranberries, discarding any that are soft or blemished to maintain the salad’s fresh tartness.
After cleaning, we use a sharp knife to finely chop about 2 cups of cranberries, enhancing their tart punch without overwhelming the blend. If you prefer a milder bite, chopping coarsely works well too. This step is crucial to evenly disperse the bold cranberry flavor throughout the ambrosia.
Draining and Chopping Fruits
Proper draining prevents the ambrosia from becoming watery and preserves its creamy texture. We drain:
- 1 can of pineapple tidbits (approximately 8 ounces)
- 1 can of mandarin orange segments (approximately 11 ounces)
Using a fine mesh strainer, we gently press on the fruit to remove excess juice without crushing the pieces.
Next, we prepare any additional fresh fruit such as diced apple or finely chopped orange zest. Precise chopping into bite-sized pieces ensures each forkful offers a balanced burst of sweetness alongside the tart cranberries.
| Fruit Component | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pineapple tidbits | Drain thoroughly | Retain only minimal juice |
| Mandarin orange | Drain thoroughly | Handle gently to preserve segments |
| Additional fresh fruit | Dice finely | Uniform, bite-sized pieces |
Toasting Nuts (If Applicable)
If we choose to add texture with nuts, toasting them enhances their crunch and releases rich, nutty aromas. We recommend walnuts or pecans as ideal choices for Cranberry Ambrosia.
Steps for toasting:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) or heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Spread ½ cup of nuts evenly on a baking sheet or place in skillet.
- Toast for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fragrant.
- Remove promptly and cool completely before folding into the salad.
Toasting nuts fresh before serving preserves their crunchiness and complements the creamy elements perfectly.
By carefully prepping cranberries, draining fruits thoroughly, and toasting nuts just right, we lay the foundation for a vibrant and balanced Cranberry Ambrosia that delights every time.
Directions
Let’s bring together the vibrant flavors and textures of our Cranberry Ambrosia Recipe with these straightforward steps. Each phase ensures a perfectly balanced and visually appealing dish.
Mixing the Ingredients
- Prepare the cranberries: After rinsing and finely chopping the fresh cranberries, transfer them into a large mixing bowl.
- Add canned fruits: Drain the canned pineapple tidbits and mandarin orange segments thoroughly and fold them gently into the bowl.
- Incorporate creamy elements: Add the sour cream or Greek yogurt alongside honey or sugar to taste. Stir gently to combine without breaking up the fruit pieces.
- Flavor and texture boosts: Mix in vanilla extract and shredded coconut for aroma and a tropical twist.
- Final folds: Carefully fold in the mini marshmallows last to maintain their fluffiness.
Pro Tip: For the best texture contrast, hold off on adding toasted nuts until just before serving.
Chilling the Cranberry Ambrosia
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cover the bowl | Use plastic wrap or a tight lid |
| Refrigerate | Chill at 36°F to 40°F for 2 to 4 hours |
| Flavor melding | Allow flavors to meld for richer taste |
| Add marshmallows and nuts | Fold in toasted nuts and marshmallows just before serving |
Chilling our Cranberry Ambrosia helps the tart and sweet notes develop fully while keeping the marshmallows and nuts delightfully textured.
Serving Suggestions
- Present the ambrosia in a clear glass bowl to showcase its colorful layers.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of extra shredded coconut and a few whole cranberries for visual appeal.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish at holiday gatherings or as a light dessert.
- Pair with dishes such as roasted turkey or glazed ham to complement rich savory flavors.
Together, these directions ensure our cranberry ambrosia shines as the star of every festive table.
Storage Tips
To keep our Cranberry Ambrosia fresh and vibrant, proper storage is essential. Follow these tips to maintain the salad’s delightful texture and balanced flavor:
- Use an airtight container to store the ambrosia. This will prevent it from absorbing other refrigerator odors and maintain moisture levels without sogginess.
- Refrigerate immediately after preparation. Keep the salad chilled at a consistent temperature between 36°F and 40°F. This range preserves freshness and slows bacterial growth.
- Add marshmallows and toasted nuts just before serving. This keeps the marshmallows fluffy and the nuts crunchy, preventing them from becoming soggy or chewy.
- Avoid adding sour cream or Greek yogurt during storage if making in advance. Add these creamy ingredients right before serving to prevent separation or water release.
- If storing leftovers, cover the bowl tightly or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate immediately. Consume within 2 to 3 days for best taste and texture.
| Storage Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Container | Airtight |
| Temperature | 36°F to 40°F |
| Add marshmallows & nuts | Just before serving |
| Shelf life | 2 to 3 days refrigerated |
| Creamy ingredients | Add fresh before serving, not during storage |
“Storage is key to ensuring our Cranberry Ambrosia stays as fresh and delicious as the moment we prepare it.”
By carefully following these storage tips, we preserve the bright colors, contrasting textures, and complex flavors that make our Cranberry Ambrosia Recipe a holiday favorite.
Conclusion
Cranberry Ambrosia brings a fresh twist to holiday fruit salads with its perfect balance of tart, sweet, and creamy flavors. It’s a dish that invites creativity while ensuring every bite offers a delightful texture combination. With the right preparation and storage techniques, this recipe can become a reliable favorite for festive gatherings.
We’re confident that once you try this vibrant salad, it’ll earn a regular spot on your holiday table. Its ease of make-ahead preparation and ability to complement savory dishes make it a versatile and crowd-pleasing addition to any celebration. Let’s make this season a little brighter with a bowl of Cranberry Ambrosia!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cranberry Ambrosia salad?
Cranberry Ambrosia is a festive fruit salad combining tart fresh cranberries, sweet canned pineapple and mandarin oranges, creamy marshmallows, shredded coconut, and toasted nuts. It offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings.
What are the key ingredients in Cranberry Ambrosia?
Essential ingredients include fresh cranberries, canned pineapple tidbits, mandarin orange segments, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, sour cream or Greek yogurt, honey or sugar, vanilla extract, and toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans.
How do I prepare the cranberries for this salad?
Rinse and inspect fresh cranberries thoroughly, then chop them finely to evenly distribute their tartness throughout the salad.
Can I make Cranberry Ambrosia ahead of time?
Yes, mix all ingredients except mini marshmallows and toasted nuts 2 to 4 hours before serving to let flavors meld. Add marshmallows and nuts just before serving for best texture.
How should I store leftovers?
Store Cranberry Ambrosia in an airtight container in the refrigerator at 36°F to 40°F. Do not add sour cream or yogurt during storage, and consume leftovers within 2 to 3 days.
What kitchen tools do I need to make Cranberry Ambrosia?
Use a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a sharp knife, cutting board, mixing spoon or spatula, colander for rinsing, and a serving dish. A toaster oven or skillet is helpful for toasting nuts and coconut.
Why are toasted nuts important in the salad?
Toasted nuts add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complement the creamy and sweet elements of the salad, enhancing the overall taste experience.
How do I prevent the salad from becoming soggy?
Drain canned fruits well and avoid adding marshmallows and toasted nuts until just before serving. Also, do not mix sour cream or Greek yogurt into the salad during storage.
What are some serving suggestions for Cranberry Ambrosia?
Serve in a clear glass bowl garnished with extra shredded coconut and whole cranberries. It pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like roasted turkey or glazed ham during holidays.