Inspired by the classic Southern fruit salad, this Ambrosia Cake is a vibrant, fruit-filled dessert that combines tropical flavors with a moist and tender crumb. Bursting with cherries, pineapple, peaches, grapes, and mandarin oranges, and optionally finished with coconut and whipped cream, it’s a refreshing and colorful cake that’s perfect for any festive occasion, from summer picnics to holiday dessert tables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ambrosia Cake is both nostalgic and innovative—melding the fruity charm of the traditional salad with the satisfaction of a freshly baked cake. It’s incredibly moist, easy to make with pantry staples, and highly adaptable to different fruit combinations. The bursts of fruit in every bite, along with the optional coconut and whipped cream topping, make it a delightful crowd-pleaser that feels both indulgent and light.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup whole milk
1 cup drained fruit cocktail or chopped mixed canned fruits (pineapple, peaches, grapes, cherries, mandarin oranges)
1/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)

For Topping (Optional):

Extra fruit pieces for garnish
Whipped cream or dusting of powdered sugar

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk.
Gently fold in the drained mixed fruits and shredded coconut, if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Before serving, top with extra fruit, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar as desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 slices
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: Approximately 295 kcal per slice

Variations

Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to enhance the fruity brightness.
Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for texture.
Tropical Flair: Use only tropical fruits like mango, papaya, and pineapple for a summer twist.
Layered Cake: Slice the cake in half and add whipped cream or cream cheese frosting between layers.
Glazed Top: Drizzle with a light orange or pineapple glaze for added sweetness and shine.

storage/reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If topped with whipped cream, it’s best kept chilled. To enjoy warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. This cake also freezes well—wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?

Yes, fresh fruit can be used, but be sure it’s chopped small and well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

Is the coconut necessary?

No, it’s optional, but it adds a traditional Ambrosia flavor and a bit of texture.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

How do I prevent the fruit from sinking?

Coat the chopped fruit in a bit of flour before folding it into the batter to help it distribute evenly.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking dish. Adjust the baking time as needed.

What frosting works best with this cake?

Whipped cream is traditional, but cream cheese frosting also pairs well.

How do I make a glaze instead of frosting?

Mix powdered sugar with a little citrus juice (like orange or pineapple) for a simple drizzle.

Can I use low-fat milk?

Yes, though whole milk adds richness, low-fat milk can be substituted with minimal impact.

Can I make this into cupcakes?

Absolutely. Divide the batter into lined cupcake tins and bake for 18–22 minutes.

What if I don’t have an 8-inch pan?

A 9-inch round pan works too; just reduce the baking time slightly and check for doneness early.

Conclusion

Ambrosia Cake is a delightful blend of classic fruit salad flavors and tender cake texture, creating a vibrant dessert that’s both nostalgic and modern. Its colorful, moist crumb and optional toppings make it a versatile option for celebrations year-round. Whether served simply with a dusting of powdered sugar or dressed up with whipped cream and fresh fruit, it’s a tropical-inspired treat that’s sure to impress.

Ambrosia Cake

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A moist and fluffy tropical-inspired cake bursting with vibrant fruits like cherries, pineapple, peaches, grapes, and mandarin oranges—this Ambrosia Cake is a refreshing twist on the classic fruit salad, baked to golden perfection.

Author: Mari
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 slices 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan.
In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with milk.
Gently fold in drained mixed fruits and coconut, if using.
Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Top with fresh fruit or whipped cream just before serving.

Notes

Drain fruits well to prevent excess moisture in the batter.
Coconut adds texture and flavor but is optional.
Best served the same day for optimal freshness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 295
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 160mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 80mg