Mele kalikimaka!  Have you ever had ambrosia?  Did your grandmother/aunt/mother make it every Christmas growing up?  We had it as a child, until my mother decided she was done peeling orange slices.  I never really ate it because I wasn't into shredded coconut as a kid.

However, my kids are currently into all things Moana, and are intrigued by coconuts.  So, with that in mind, and the fact that Christmas brings out the nostalgia in us all, I decided to attempt a new spin on the traditional ambrosia, and I love this festive take on a Southern classic.

What you need (this will serve 6 - 8 people):

5 Navel Oranges | 2 cups Pineapple | shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened - up to you!) | chopped pecans (toast them if you feel festive!) | mini marshmallows | heavy cream (large container) | sugar | vanilla | greek yogurt (just a dollop!) | sprinkles | coconuts (one for each guest) | peppermint sticks and straws for garnish, if you want

(pictured above: pink bowls, my favorite mixer; measuring spoons; my favorite flatware)

First, peel the oranges.  If you want to do this the right way, then peel the skin off each segment, just leaving the juicy inner parts of each slice.  You don't have to do this, but it gives it a really nice texture, and makes it extra juicy.

Next, cut up your pineapple into smallish chunks.

Next, make your whipped cream.  Whip the cream until stiff, and add 3 tbsp. of sugar (or to taste) and a tsp. of vanilla.  Stir in a heaping spoonful of greek yogurt.  This is optional, but traditional recipes use sour cream, so this gives a nod to that texture.

Mix the pineapple in with the oranges, and add in the whipped cream mixture.

Looking good!  Next, open your coconuts.  I used a hammer - look it up on youtube if you need help!

Spoon some of the mixture into each coconut "bowl," and set them out for your guests.  Place the bowls of optional toppings out so they can make their own, and customize it to their taste! (I love love these mini bowls, and they are only $1.99 right now!)

Not only does this make for a really fun post dinner activity, but each guest (or kid!) can make it just the way they like.  Extra marshmallows, skip the coconut, whatever!

Plus, it's just so much fun to hold!

(Brigie's pajamas)

And eat, of course!

So, what do you think?  Will you be giving it a try?