Ambrosia Fruit Salad Cheesecake

Ambrosia Fruit Salad Cheesecake is the ultimate fusion of two beloved desserts—creamy, tangy cheesecake meets the sweet, fluffy nostalgia of ambrosia salad! This dreamy dessert combines a graham cracker crust, a citrus-kissed cheesecake filling, and a topping bursting with mandarin oranges, pineapple, cherries, coconut, and marshmallows. Here’s how to make it:

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Ambrosia Fruit Salad Cheesecake Recipe

Servings: 8–10
Prep Time: 30 mins (+ chilling)

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

• ⅓ cup melted butter

• 2 tbsp sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup sour cream

• ⅔ cup granulated sugar

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tbsp lemon or orange zest

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks

For the Ambrosia Topping:

• 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained

• ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained

• ½ cup maraschino cherries, halved

• ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut

• 1 cup mini marshmallows

• ½ cup whipped cream or Cool Whip

Optional Garnish:

• Toasted coconut flakes

• Extra cherries or citrus zest

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Instructions

1. Make the Crust:

   • Mix graham crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.

   • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes, then cool completely.

2. Make the Filling:

   • Beat cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, citrus zest, and lemon juice until smooth.

   • Fold in sour cream, then gently fold in whipped cream.

   • Spread over the cooled crust and chill for 4+ hours (or overnight).

3. Add the Ambrosia Topping:

   • Gently mix all fruit, coconut, and marshmallows with whipped cream.

   • Spread over the chilled cheesecake.

   • Garnish with toasted coconut or cherries.

4. Serve:

   • Chill 1 more hour before slicing. Use a warm knife for clean cuts!

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Why It Works

• Texture Magic: The creamy cheesecake contrasts with the fluffy, fruity topping.

• Nostalgic Twist: All the flavors of classic ambrosia, but richer.

• Make-Ahead: Perfect for potlucks or holidays (Easter, Christmas, etc.).

Variations:

• Swap fruits (try grapes or strawberries).

• Add a drizzle of caramel or citrus curd.

• Use a no-bake cheesecake base for quicker prep.

Would you like a lighter version (with Greek yogurt) or a boozy twist (a splash of coconut rum)? 😊