Elevated Ambrosia Salad (Print View)

Smooth whipped cream melds with citrus, toasted pecans, and marshmallows for a subtle sophisticated dessert.

# What You'll Need:

→ Fruit & Nuts

01 - 2 cups mandarin orange segments, drained if canned
02 - 1 cup pineapple tidbits, drained (optional)
03 - 3/4 cup toasted pecans, coarsely chopped
04 - 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut

→ Cream & Flavoring

05 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream
06 - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
07 - 1 to 2 tablespoons bourbon, to taste
08 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Marshmallows

09 - 2 cups mini marshmallows

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the mandarin orange segments, pineapple tidbits if using, toasted pecans, and shredded coconut.
02 - In a separate chilled bowl, beat heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar, bourbon, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
03 - Fold the whipped cream delicately into the fruit and nut mixture until evenly coated.
04 - Fold in the mini marshmallows gently to combine all ingredients.
05 - Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld.
06 - Serve chilled, optionally garnished with extra toasted pecans or a sprinkle of shredded coconut.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It tastes like a memory your palate didn't know it had, with that sophisticated bourbon whisper beneath the sweetness.
  • Twenty minutes of prep means you're relaxed instead of stressed when guests arrive.
  • The combination of textures—crisp pecans, pillowy marshmallows, juicy fruit—keeps every spoonful interesting.
02 -
  • If you fold the whipped cream in too aggressively, it deflates and the salad becomes heavy instead of airy—gentle is everything here.
  • The bourbon really does matter; it cuts through the sweetness and makes the dessert feel grown-up rather than cloying.
03 -
  • Chill your mixing bowl and whipping cream ahead of time; cold cream whips faster and holds peaks better than room-temperature cream.
  • Fold, don't stir; aggressive mixing is the enemy of light, airy texture in this dish.
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