This marshmallow salad isn’t your average salad—it’s a fluffy bowl of delicious fun!

This creamy, dreamy, no-bake classic brings together fruity flavors and fluffy sweetness for a retro-inspired treat that works as a side or a light dessert.

Fluffy, Fruity & Festive

Marshmallow Salad is a favorite for potlucks and holiday dinners. Kids and adults alike love this salad.
Preparation is super quick – ready in under 10 minutes!
Marshmallow salad does not require any cooking for stress-free prep.
Fruit salads like this one are perfect served as a side or as a dessert.

marshmallows, whipped topping, crushed pineapple, pecans, coconut, and mandarin oranges assembled to make Marshmallow Salad

What’s Inside the Bowl

Mini Marshmallows: These soft, sweet bites give the salad its signature fluffy texture and a touch of chew, they really are the star of the show.

Fruit: Mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple are bright, juicy, and slightly tangy—these fruits cut through the sweetness and provide a tropical twist in every bite.

Coconut: Shredded coconut adds a bit of texture and a hint of nutty flavor.

Nuts: Chopped pecans provide that crunchy, earthy, and just slightly savory flavor to round out the sweetness and give this salad some body.

Whipped topping: Cool Whip, or any brand of whipped topping, is the magical ingredient that binds everything together. Light, creamy, and dreamy, it turns everything into a fluffy, cloud-like creation.

Sweet Swaps & Fruity Flips

Add color to this marshmallow fruit salad with maraschino cherries or red and green grapes for a holiday vibe.
Toss in chopped bananas or diced mango for an even more fruity, tropical feel.
Make it extra creamy and tangy with an added dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Need it nut-free? Skip the pecans or try sunflower seeds for that irresistible crunch.

marshmallow salad ingredients in a bowl before the whipped topping has been added

Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine marshmallows, oranges, pineapple, coconut, and nuts.
Gently fold in the Cool Whip until everything is well coated.
Serve right away or chill for about an hour before serving.
Garnish with more chopped pecans and maraschino cherries for an extra festive touch.

marshmallow salad in a clear bowl garnished with pecans and a maraschino cherry

Whip-Smart Tips & Tricks

Drain well: Make sure the canned fruits are fully drained to avoid a watery salad.
Chill it: Refrigerate this salad for about an hour to help the flavors meld beautifully.
Serve it pretty: Use a glass bowl to show off all the fun colors and textures.

marshmallow salad in a small bowl with the salad in a large clear bowl on the side

Simple Storage Tips

Store fruit salad with marshmallows covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Stir gently before serving again to freshen it up.
This salad is best enjoyed fresh or chilled, do not freeze.
Whether you call it ambrosia or fluff salad, this marshmallow mix is a festive, fluffy favorite that’s sure to shine at your next gathering. It’s retro, it’s reliable, and it’s ridiculously easy—what’s not to love?

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