Elevated Ambrosia Fruit Salad (Printable)

Mandarin, toasted pecans, marshmallows, and bourbon whipped cream create a sophisticated chilled dessert.

# What You 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

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, gently combine mandarin orange segments, pineapple tidbits if using, toasted pecans, and shredded coconut.
02 - In a separate chilled medium bowl, beat heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar, bourbon, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
03 - Gently fold the whipped cream into the fruit and nut mixture until fully incorporated.
04 - Add mini marshmallows and fold gently to combine evenly.
05 - Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
06 - Serve chilled, optionally garnished with extra toasted pecans or a sprinkle of shredded coconut.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The bourbon isn't aggressive—it just hums beneath the sweetness like a secret only you and the cream know.
  • Toasting the pecans yourself means you control the nuttiness, making it feel less like a potluck staple and more like something you've genuinely crafted.
  • It's make-ahead friendly, which means you can spend time with guests instead of fussing in the kitchen.
02 -
  • A cold bowl and cold beaters make the difference between whipped cream and butter—this isn't optional, it's the foundation.
  • Don't skip the toasting step for the pecans; it's the single move that makes people ask what your secret ingredient is.
03 -
  • If your whipped cream breaks or gets too soft, strain it through cheesecloth for five minutes and fold in a fresh dollop of freshly whipped cream to revive it.
  • Make the whipped cream last, right before folding, so it stays fluffy and holds its structure through the chilling.
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