Heavenly hash is a creamy dessert loaded with fruit, marshmallows, slivered almonds, and a hint of chocolate. This easy recipe is perfect to prepare for holidays, or when you are looking for an easy dish to pass at your next potluck. Plus, it is a great crowd-pleaser, particularly with the kids!
What is it?
Heavenly has is an easy dessert that is similar to an ambrosia salad, and is often described interchangeably, while also borrowing flavors from Heavenly Hash ice cream. There aren't many rules for this dessert to follow, as it falls into the category of recipes that can vary wildly from one household to the next.
The main component that is recognizable in almost every heavenly hash recipe is the use of marshmallows. Chocolate flavor and almonds are the next two most popular additions, while a fruit cocktail medley is often added when making heavenly hash in an ambrosia salad style. Ultimately, there are no rules set in stone, so this is a great recipe to customize to fit your own preferences.
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Whipped topping - Such as Cool Whip. Whipping cream can be used as well, but I think Cool Whip works best.
- Sour cream - This is an optional addition, you can use more Cool Whip instead, but sour cream adds a bit of tanginess to the dessert.
- Cocoa powder - This is optional, but adds a great chocolatey flavor.
- Miniature marshmallows - I highly recommend miniature marshmallows rather than large marshmallows.
- Canned pineapple tidbits
- Canned mandarin oranges
- Slivered almonds
- Maraschino cherries
You can substitute your favorite canned fruit rather than using the ones listed. Canned fruit cocktail is a perfect choice because it contains a mixture of fruit, otherwise, you can even add fresh fruits such as green grapes. If you want more chocolate flavor added, use chocolate chips or chop up some chocolate bars into pieces and mix them in as well.
How to make it
This heavenly hash recipe comes together in five minutes. To make it, simply mix the Cool Whip, sour cream, and cocoa powder together in a large bowl. Then fold in the mini marshmallows, fruit, and almonds with a rubber spatula. Once everything is mixed together it is ready to be served.
How to store leftovers
Heavenly hash can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you wish to enjoy it (the flavor is even better the next day). I recommend eating it within three days for best flavor and texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container, or cover the bowl with plastic wrap to prevent odors from your refrigerator from altering the flavor.
More Easy Fruit Desserts
Heavenly Hash
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups whipped topping such as Cool Whip
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 ½ cups miniature marshmallows
- 8 ounces canned pineapple tidbits liquid drained
- 8 ounces canned mandarin oranges liquid drained
- ½ cup slivered almonds
- ¼ cup maraschino cherries
Instructions
- Combine whipped topping, sour cream, and cocoa powder together in a large bowl, whisking until smooth.
- Add marshmallows, pineapple, orange slices, almonds, and cherries to the bowl. Gently mix everything together until well combined.
- Serve immediately.
Maryann
My mom used to make this, but froze it in a loaf pan and slicedvit to serve on hit days for dessert
Susan Horvath
My mom passed in May, first Thanksgiving without her. She always had Heavenly Hash, very similar recipe, making in her memory. It's a family favorite. Thanks for posting the recipe!
Mary White
My mom always made this but with cottage cheese instead of sour cream. She used canned fruit cocktail and cut up 3 musketeer candy bar instead of cocoa. Family favorite for sure!
Jane Ann
Actually my Mom used to make this all the time with fruit cocktail mandarin oranges maraschino cherries and sour cream. Back in the day it was called Hawaiian Delight