Ingredients:

  • 3 large Navel Oranges, segmented
  • 1 (20 oz) can Canned Pineapple Chunks, drained (reserve 1 Tbsp juice)
  • 1/2 cup Maraschino Cherries, halved and patted dry
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream (Double Cream), chilled
  • 1 cup Full-Fat Sour Cream
  • 1/4 cup Powdered Sugar (Icing Sugar), sifted
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon Orange Zest
  • 1 tablespoon Reserved Pineapple Juice
  • 1 1/2 cups Sweetened Flaked Coconut (divided)
  • 3 cups Mini Marshmallows

Instructions:

  1. Prepare and Dry the Fruit: Place the pineapple chunks and maraschino cherries in separate fine-mesh sieves and drain thoroughly for at least 15 minutes. Pat the cherries dry with kitchen paper to prevent color bleed.
  2. Segment the Oranges: Peel the oranges, removing all white pith. Carefully cut between the membranes to release individual orange segments (supremes). Place segments on a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb excess moisture.
  3. Combine Dried Fruit: In a small bowl, gently combine the segmented oranges, drained pineapple, and patted cherries. Set aside.
  4. Whip the Cream: Pour the chilled heavy cream into a large, chilled bowl. Use an electric mixer or whisk to whip the cream until soft peaks form. Do not over-whip.
  5. Fold in the Tang: Reduce the mixer speed or switch to a spatula. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, orange zest, and reserved pineapple juice. Mix gently until just combined.
  6. Incorporate Sour Cream: Gently fold the full-fat sour cream into the whipped cream mixture using a spatula until the dressing is smooth and homogenous, ensuring the whipped cream's air is not knocked out.
  7. Assembly: Add 1 cup of the shredded coconut and the mini marshmallows to the creamy dressing. Fold gently until everything is coated.
  8. Incorporate Fruit and Chill: Carefully add the prepared fruit mixture into the bowl. Fold the ingredients together lightly and quickly. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, or ideally, overnight. This allows the marshmallows to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully.
  9. Finish and Serve: Just before serving, gently stir the Ambrosia. Transfer the salad to a decorative bowl and garnish generously with the remaining 1/2 cup of flaked coconut and extra maraschino cherries if desired. Serve immediately.