Alton Brown Ambrosia Recipe is made with heavy cream, sour cream, homemade mini marshmallows, clementine orange segments, freshly grated coconut, and maraschino cherries. This recipe creates a creamy, fruity ambrosia salad. It takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes to prepare and serves 6.
Alton Brown Ambrosia Recipe Ingredients
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 4 ounces sour cream
- 6 ounces homemade mini marshmallows, approximately 3 cups
- 1 cup clementine orange segments, approximately 6 clementines
- 1 cup chopped fresh pineapple
- 1 cup freshly grated coconut
- 1 cup toasted, chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup drained maraschino cherries
How To Make Alton Brown Ambrosia Recipe
- Whip the Cream: Place the cream and sugar into the bowl of a stand mixer with the whisk attachment and whip until stiff peaks form.
- Add Sour Cream: Add the sour cream to the whipped cream and whisk until fully combined.
- Fold in Ingredients: Stir in the marshmallows, orange segments, pineapple, coconut, pecans, and cherries until well mixed.
- Chill the Salad: Transfer the mixture to a glass serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 2 hours before serving.

Recipe Tips
- Use Homemade Marshmallows: Homemade marshmallows provide a softer, more delicate texture than store-bought.
- Fresh Citrus: Use fresh clementines for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting enhances the nuts’ flavor and adds crunch.
- Grate Fresh Coconut: Freshly grated coconut adds more texture and tropical flavor than prepackaged.
- Chill Thoroughly: Let the ambrosia sit in the fridge for a full 2 hours so flavors meld and marshmallows soften.
What To Serve With Ambrosia
This ambrosia salad pairs well with roasted turkey, baked ham, grilled chicken, or as a sweet side at potlucks and holiday dinners. It also complements other fruit-based desserts and light cakes.
How To Store Ambrosia
Refrigerate: Store ambrosia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.
Freeze: Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the cream and fruit may deteriorate.
Ambrosia Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 310
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 45mg
FAQs
Can I make ambrosia ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day ahead. Just store it covered in the refrigerator.
Can I use canned fruit instead of fresh?
Yes, but drain well to prevent excess moisture that could make the salad watery.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt or crème fraîche are good alternatives for a slightly different tang.
Can I skip the nuts?
Absolutely—just leave them out or substitute with sunflower seeds for crunch.
How long does ambrosia last in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for about 3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.
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Alton Brown Ambrosia Recipe
Description
A creamy, fruity salad featuring fresh citrus, marshmallows, coconut, and pecans.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the cream and sugar into the bowl of a stand mixer with the whisk attachment and whip until stiff peaks form.
- Add the sour cream and whisk to combine.
- Stir in the marshmallows, orange segments, pineapple, coconut, pecans, and cherries.
- Transfer to a glass serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 2 hours before serving.
