Ambrosia Salad

Instructions

1. 1

   Make the Creamy Dressing

   • Place a large mixing bowl and the beaters from an electric mixer in the freezer for 15 minutes to chill.
   • Pour the cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract into the chilled bowl.
   • Beat with the electric mixer on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes, or until stiff peaks form. Stiff peaks will hold their shape and won't droop when the beaters are lifted.
   • Add the sour cream to the whipped cream. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold it in until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can deflate the cream.
2. 2

   Combine Salad Ingredients

   • To the bowl with the dressing, add the thoroughly drained pineapple tidbits, drained mandarin oranges, miniature marshmallows, shredded coconut, and toasted pecans.
   • Gently fold all the ingredients together with the spatula until everything is evenly coated in the creamy dressing. Be careful not to break the mandarin orange segments.
3. 3

   Chill to Meld Flavors

   • Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
   • Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. For the best texture and flavor, chill for 4 hours. This allows the marshmallows to soften and the flavors to meld together.
4. 4

   Garnish and Serve

   • Just before serving, give the salad a gentle stir.
   • Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with the halved maraschino cherries. Serve cold.