Prepare to be amazed by this utterly delightful Snickers Salad, a sweet, creamy, and irresistibly crunchy dessert salad that has captivated taste buds for generations. It’s the perfect harmony of rich chocolate, gooey caramel, salty peanuts from Snickers bars, crisp apples, and a luscious vanilla pudding dressing. Often found gracing tables at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday celebrations, this unique concoction proves that sometimes, the most unexpected combinations yield the most extraordinary flavors. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering its charm, our perfected recipe ensures a consistently amazing experience that will have everyone asking for more.
The Ultimate Snickers Salad Recipe
Every now and then, you encounter a dish that leaves such a lasting impression, you simply must learn how to recreate it. For me, that moment arrived years ago, during a truly special occasion. My husband and I had the incredible honor of officiating a secret wedding ceremony for two dear friends. They cleverly disguised it as a housewarming party, and only a select few knew the true nature of the celebration that day. It was an incredibly moving experience to witness and facilitate their vows, a beautiful testament to their love, and it marked the second wedding I had the privilege of performing since becoming ordained.
The reception, as it turned out, was a vibrant potluck, overflowing with delicious homemade contributions from all the guests. Amidst the savory casseroles and vibrant side dishes, a particular dessert salad caught everyone’s attention. It was a Snickers and apple salad, and let me tell you, it vanished almost as quickly as it appeared! I remember barely managing to scoop out a single serving before the bowl was completely empty. Everyone raved about it; the combination was simply divine, a perfect balance of sweet and tart, crunchy and creamy.
From that day forward, I was on a mission. I spent countless hours experimenting, tweaking, and refining various combinations to replicate the magic of that unforgettable salad. I wanted to capture the precise blend of textures and flavors that made it so exceptional. After much trial and error, I believe I have finally perfected the recipe, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.
Naming this dish proved to be a small challenge. While some might affectionately call it a “Snickers Fruit Salad” or even a “Snickers side dish,” due to its unconventional ingredients for a typical salad, the name “Snickers Salad” is the most widely recognized and accepted. Regardless of its classification, we embrace it as a glorious dessert salad – a decadent and satisfying treat that is ideal for any social gathering, family holiday spread, or simply a weekend indulgence when a sweet craving strikes. Its effortless preparation and universally loved flavors make it a consistent crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Snickers Salad
- Effortlessly Delicious: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can whip up this amazing dessert in no time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its unique sweet and tangy profile with delightful crunch makes it a hit at any event, from casual potlucks to elegant holiday dinners.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to various tastes and dietary needs with simple substitutions.
- Perfect Balance: The tartness of green apples perfectly cuts through the richness of the Snickers and creamy pudding, creating a harmonious flavor experience.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance, chill, and serve when ready, making entertaining a breeze.
Key Ingredients for Your Snickers Apple Salad
Creating this epic Snickers Apple Salad requires just a handful of readily available, simple ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need, along with tips for selecting the best components to ensure your salad is nothing short of spectacular:
- Milk: Cold milk is essential for dissolving the instant pudding mix correctly. Any type of dairy milk (whole, 2%, skim) will work, but whole milk will yield a richer, creamier pudding base. For a dairy-free option, unsweetened almond milk or oat milk can be used, though the texture might be slightly different.
- Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: This forms the creamy, sweet base of your salad. Be sure to use instant pudding, not the cook-and-serve variety, for quick setting. While vanilla is traditional and provides a perfect backdrop for the Snickers and apples, feel free to experiment with other flavors like French vanilla, cheesecake, or even butterscotch for a different twist.
- Cool Whip (Whipped Topping): This adds lightness, fluffiness, and additional sweetness to the dressing. Ensure it’s thawed but still cold. For those who prefer to avoid store-bought whipped topping, homemade whipped cream can be used, but note that it might not hold its structure as long, especially if the salad sits for an extended period.
- Apples (Granny Smith Recommended): The apples are crucial for providing a refreshing, tart contrast to the sweetness of the other ingredients. Granny Smith apples are highly recommended for their firm texture and pronounced tartness, which prevents the salad from being overly sweet. However, if you prefer a sweeter apple, varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji can also be used, though you might adjust other elements for balance.
- Full-Size Snickers Candy Bars: The star of the show! These classic candy bars bring together chocolate, nougat, caramel, and peanuts, delivering a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Using full-size bars ensures substantial pieces throughout the salad. Ensure they are cold before chopping, as this makes them easier to cut cleanly.
Optional Enhancements: For an extra layer of indulgence and visual appeal, consider drizzling a generous amount of caramel sauce over the top just before serving. This transforms it into a decadent Snickers Caramel Apple Salad, amplifying the rich caramel notes already present in the candy bars.
Essential Equipment Needed
While this recipe is incredibly simple, having the right tools on hand will make the preparation process even smoother and more enjoyable:
- Large Mixing Bowl: This is arguably the most important piece of equipment. You’ll need a bowl large enough to comfortably whisk the pudding, fold in the whipped topping, and most importantly, gently combine all the apples and Snickers pieces without them spilling over. Trust me, use a bowl bigger than you think you’ll need to avoid a messy kitchen counter!
- Whisk: A good sturdy whisk is necessary for thoroughly combining the milk and instant pudding mix, ensuring a smooth, lump-free base for your dressing.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for safely and efficiently dicing your apples and chopping the Snickers bars into bite-sized pieces. A sharp knife makes these tasks much easier and safer.
- Rubber Spatula: Ideal for gently folding the Cool Whip into the pudding mixture, preserving its light and airy texture. It’s also great for scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.
How to Make Snickers Salad: Step-by-Step Guide
This dessert salad comes together quickly and easily. Follow these steps to create your own irresistible Snickers Apple Salad:
- Prepare the Pudding Base: In your large mixing bowl, combine the cold milk and the instant vanilla pudding mix. Whisk vigorously for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is completely smooth and thickened. It’s crucial to whisk thoroughly to ensure no lumps remain. Once whisked, allow the pudding to set for approximately 2-4 minutes. During this brief resting period, it will continue to firm up and reach the desired consistency.
- Chop the Snickers: While the pudding is setting, take your Snickers candy bars and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform chunks that are easy to eat. As a thoughtful garnish, set aside a small handful of these chopped Snickers pieces to sprinkle over the top of the salad just before serving. This adds a lovely visual appeal and a fresh crunch.
- Fold in the Whipped Topping: Once the vanilla pudding mixture has adequately set, carefully and gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip. The key here is a light touch. Use a rubber spatula to incorporate the whipped topping, preserving its light and airy texture. Overmixing can deflate the Cool Whip, resulting in a less fluffy and desirable dressing.
- Prepare the Apples: Next, dice your Granny Smith apples into small, manageable pieces. To prevent the apples from browning prematurely, you can toss them with a splash of lemon juice immediately after cutting. This simple step helps maintain their fresh appearance and crisp texture.
- Combine and Chill: Add the diced apples and the majority of the chopped Snickers candy bars into the pudding and whipped cream mixture. Again, gently fold all the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed throughout the creamy dressing. Once everything is well combined, cover the bowl and transfer it to the refrigerator. Allow the salad to chill for at least 1-2 hours, or preferably longer, to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to become perfectly cold and refreshing.
- Serve: When you’re ready to serve this delectable dessert, spoon it into a beautiful serving bowl. Crown the top with the reserved Snickers crumbles. If desired, now is the perfect time to add a delightful drizzle of caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal. Enjoy your homemade Snickers Apple Salad!
Preparation, Storage, and Make-Ahead Tips
To ensure your Snickers Salad is always at its best, here are some helpful tips for preparation, storage, and making it ahead of time:
- Make Ahead: This salad is an excellent make-ahead option, perfect for busy hosts or when you want to prepare something delicious in advance. You can prepare the entire salad a day ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Do keep in mind that the longer the salad sits, the Snickers candy pieces may begin to soften slightly. Some people enjoy this softer texture, while others prefer the fresh crunch. If you prefer maximum crunch, you can add the Snickers just an hour or two before serving.
- Storage: Any leftover Snickers Salad should be stored promptly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing other odors from your fridge. When stored correctly, it typically remains delicious for 2-3 days.
- Freezing: We do not recommend freezing Snickers Salad. The delicate texture of the whipped topping and pudding, along with the apples, will change significantly upon thawing, becoming watery and grainy. For the best experience, always serve this salad fresh and chilled from the refrigerator.
Recipe Variations to Spark Your Creativity
One of the joys of this Snickers Salad recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to get creative and customize it to your taste or what you have on hand:
- Pudding Power-Up: While vanilla is a classic choice, consider substituting with other instant pudding flavors. Butterscotch pudding adds a deeper, richer caramel note, cheesecake pudding offers a tangy dimension, and French vanilla provides an even more sophisticated vanilla profile. Chocolate pudding could also be a fun, extra-indulgent option!
- Candy Bar Bonanza: Don’t limit yourself to just Snickers! Experiment with other candy bars that offer a combination of chocolate, crunch, and caramel. Some fantastic options include Pay Day (for extra peanut goodness without chocolate), Take 5 bars (pretzels, caramel, peanut butter, chocolate!), Twix (cookie crunch and caramel), Milky Way (nougat and caramel), or Butterfingers (crispy peanut butter candy). If you’re concerned about nut allergies, Milky Way or Twix can be excellent alternatives.
- Fruit Fantasia: While Granny Smith apples are traditional, other fruits can add interesting twists. Consider adding sliced bananas (toss with lemon juice to prevent browning), grapes, or even chopped strawberries for a burst of different flavors.
- Texture Boosters: For extra crunch and texture, consider folding in some mini pretzels, graham cracker pieces, or even a handful of chopped roasted peanuts (if not avoiding nuts). Mini marshmallows can also add a delightful chewiness and extra sweetness.
- Caramel Overload: As mentioned, a drizzle of caramel sauce is always welcome. You can also try adding a layer of caramel sauce in the middle of the salad or stirring a few tablespoons directly into the pudding mixture for an all-over caramel flavor.
Dietary Considerations
- Vegetarian Option: This recipe, as written, is inherently vegetarian, making it suitable for those who follow a vegetarian diet.
- Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan, you would need to make several substitutions. Store-bought Snickers bars are not vegan due to dairy ingredients. However, you could use homemade vegan Snickers bars, a dairy-free instant pudding mix (ensure it’s certified vegan), coconut whipped topping, and dairy-free milk alternatives like almond or oat milk.
- Gluten-Free: Traditional Snickers bars are considered gluten-free, but always double-check the packaging for certification, as formulations can change. Ensure all other ingredients, especially instant pudding mixes, are certified gluten-free. This is generally an easy recipe to adapt for gluten-free diets.
- Smaller/Larger Servings: The recipe card below allows for easy adjustment of serving sizes. For smaller batches, using boxed ingredients can sometimes make precise scaling a bit tricky, but adjusting amounts proportionally usually works well. For larger gatherings, this recipe doubles (or even triples) beautifully without much fuss, making it perfect for big parties.
Expert Tips for the Best Snickers Salad
- Pre-Chop for Efficiency: Cut your Snickers bars into pieces before you start dicing the apples. This way, you can quickly toss the apples with lemon juice (if using) right after cutting, minimizing their exposure to air and preventing browning.
- Garnish for Glamour: Always reserve a few chopped Snickers pieces to sprinkle over the top of the salad just before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a fresh, crunchy texture contrast to the creamy base.
- Mindful of Allergies: If you are serving this salad at a potluck or event where you are unsure of guests’ dietary restrictions, particularly nut allergies, consider using a nut-free candy bar like Milky Way or Twix. These still offer a delightful chocolate and caramel profile with a bit of crunch.
- Chill Factor is Key: While the recipe comes together quickly, allowing ample time for chilling in the refrigerator is vital. A well-chilled salad not only tastes more refreshing but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more cohesive and delicious experience. Aim for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better.
- Gentle Folding: When combining the Cool Whip with the pudding and later adding the apples and Snickers, use a gentle folding motion with a spatula. This technique helps maintain the light, airy texture of the whipped topping, which is crucial for the salad’s overall appeal.
- Quality Ingredients Matter: While simple, using good quality ingredients will elevate your Snickers Salad. Fresh, crisp apples and a reputable brand of instant pudding will make a noticeable difference in the final taste and texture.
What to Serve with Your Snickers Salad
Given the delightful sweetness and richness of Snickers Salad, it pairs wonderfully with savory main dishes and complementary sides. Here’s a guide to creating a balanced meal:
Irresistible Toppings
While delicious on its own, a few extra toppings can elevate your Snickers Salad to new heights:
- Caramel Sauce: An obvious, yet perfect choice for an added layer of sweetness and sticky goodness.
- Chopped Nuts: If not concerned about allergies, extra chopped peanuts, pecans, or walnuts can amplify the nutty crunch.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Add a subtle, buttery crust-like texture.
- Pretzel Pieces: A fantastic way to introduce a salty crunch, beautifully contrasting the sweetness.
- Mini Chocolate Chips: For an extra dose of chocolatey goodness.
- Whipped Cream or Extra Cool Whip: A final dollop on top never hurts!
Main Dishes for a Balanced Meal
Since Snickers Salad is quite sweet and indulgent, it’s best paired with savory, heartier main courses that offer a good contrast. Avoid overly sweet entrées:
- Grilled Chicken or Pork Chops: Simple seasoned grilled meats offer a fantastic savory base.
- Crockpot Ham: The savory, slightly salty ham would be a wonderful counterpoint.
- Stove Top Meatloaf: Classic comfort food that stands up well to a rich dessert.
- Roast Beef: A robust and flavorful main that pairs beautifully.
- Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork: The slightly sweet and tangy pork would be a delicious match.
- Vegetable Stir Fry: A lighter, savory option with plenty of fresh vegetables.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Hearty and flavorful, offering a great balance.
- Chicken Parmesan: Rich and satisfying, a perfect partner to a sweet salad.
Complementary Side Dishes
Balance the sweetness with refreshing or savory sides:
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, or asparagus offer healthy, savory notes.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A lighter fruit salad can cleanse the palate.
- Air Fryer Mushrooms: Earthy and savory, a delightful contrast.
- Rice Pilaf: A simple, neutral grain dish.
- Funeral Potatoes: Creamy, cheesy, and savory – a potluck classic!
- Garlic Bread: A great savory addition to any meal.
- Cracker Barrel Carrots: A touch of sweetness, but still a vegetable side.
- Caprese Pasta Salad: Fresh and tangy, offering a light contrast.
- Sweet Potato Fries: A slightly sweet and savory option.
- Orzo Salad: A light and flavorful pasta salad.
Other Delicious Desserts (for a dessert buffet!)
If you’re hosting a dessert-focused event, more sweet treats are always welcome:
- Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
- Carnation Fudge
- Chocolate Brownies
- Mississippi Mud Cake
Refreshing Drinks
Quench your thirst with these popular drink pairings:
- Chick-fil-A Lemonade: A classic, tart choice to cut through sweetness.
- Sparkling Water: Refreshing and light.
- Sweet Tea: A Southern staple that complements many dishes.
- Coffee: A warm beverage to cap off a meal.
- Sonic Cherry Limeade: Fun and fruity.
- Coke Slushie: A playful, sweet drink.
When to Serve This Delightful Dish
The beauty of Snickers Salad lies in its versatility. It’s a welcome addition to nearly any gathering or meal:
- Summer Barbecues: A cool, refreshing dessert after a day in the sun.
- Weddings (especially casual ones!): A fun and memorable dish that guests will talk about.
- Potlucks: Always a guaranteed hit that will be the first to disappear.
- Church Events: A family-friendly option that appeals to all ages.
- Family Gatherings & Holidays: A unique addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter spreads.
- Office Parties: A lighthearted treat to share with colleagues.
- Family Dinner: Elevate a regular weeknight meal into something special.
- Game Day or Movie Night: An indulgent snack for casual entertainment.
More Great Party Recipes
If you’re looking for more crowd-pleasing recipes to bring to your next event, check out some of our other favorites:
- Ambrosia Salad
- Watergate Salad
- Grape Salad
- Big Mac Salad
- Bisquick Blackberry Cobbler
- Epic Summer Cocktails
- Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
- Hawaiian Hurricane Popcorn
- Green Jello Salad
We’re passionate about delicious and easy recipes! Explore our extensive collection of Cool Whip Recipes for more fluffy delights, and discover a plethora of easy apple dessert recipes that celebrate this versatile fruit.
For savory accompaniments, don’t miss our guide on great sides for ribs. And if you’re always on the hunt for new culinary inspiration, dive into our categories for copycat recipes, dessert recipes, and our ever-popular CrockPot Recipes.
Stay connected with Tammilee Tips for all our latest culinary adventures! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter.
Apple and Snickers Salad Recipe
Delicious Apple and Snickers Salad that is perfect for potlucks, family holidays, or any day you want a great dessert salad.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 10
Calories: 195 kcal
Author: Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups cold Milk
- 3.4 Ounce instant vanilla pudding mix
- 8 Ounce Cool Whip, thawed
- 3-4 Granny Smith apples, diced
- 3-4 Snickers Candy Bars, chopped
Instructions
- Combine cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix in a large bowl. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and well mixed.
- Let the pudding mixture stand for about 2-3 minutes to allow it to set and thicken.
- While the pudding sets, chop the Snickers bars into bite-sized pieces. Reserve a small handful for garnish.
- Gently fold the thawed Cool Whip into the set vanilla pudding mixture until just combined, being careful not to deflate the whipped topping.
- Dice the apples into small pieces. Add the diced apples and the majority of the chopped Snickers bars to the pudding and Cool Whip mixture. Gently fold until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 1-2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled, to allow flavors to meld.
- Before serving, transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with the reserved Snickers pieces. Drizzle with caramel sauce if desired.
Kitchen Tools
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
- Rubber Spatula
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Apple and Snickers Salad Recipe
Amount Per Serving
Calories 195 | Calories from Fat 45
% Daily Value*
Fat 5g | 8%
- Saturated Fat 2g | 13%
- Trans Fat 1g
Cholesterol 7mg | 2%
Sodium 134mg | 6%
Potassium 197mg | 6%
Carbohydrates 35g | 12%
- Fiber 2g | 8%
- Sugar 27g | 30%
Protein 3g | 6%
Vitamin A 172IU | 3%
Vitamin C 3mg | 4%
Calcium 89mg | 9%
Iron 1mg | 6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.