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Juicy Granny Smith apples and tender pieces of Snickers candy get folded into a creamy vanilla pudding base for a dessert salad that wins over any crowd. Whether you are headed to a summer picnic or a holiday dinner, Snickers Salad is that cool sweet treat everyone will want seconds of.
I brought this to a fall potluck once and everyone wanted the recipe. Since then it is my go-to anytime I am asked to bring a dessert.
Ingredients
- Instant vanilla pudding mix: gives the base flavor and creaminess make sure to choose a good quality brand for best taste
- Whole milk: adds richness and helps the pudding set
- Cool Whip or real whipped cream: brings lightness and fluffy texture I prefer to make my own whipped cream when I have time
- Granny Smith apples: their tart crisp bite balances the sweetness choose firm bright green apples with no bruises
- Snickers candy bars: chopped for pockets of gooey caramel chocolate and nuts use the full size bars for bigger chunks
- Caramel sauce: for drizzling optional but highly recommended pick a thick sauce so it stays put on top
Step by Step Instructions
- Make the Pudding:
- Whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold whole milk in a large mixing bowl until completely smooth and creamy with no lumps. Let it stand a few minutes so it thickens and gets glossy
- Add the Whipped Cream:
- Gently fold in Cool Whip or your homemade whipped cream with a spatula using big scooping motions to keep the mixture light and fluffy
- Prepare the Apples:
- Core and chop five of the Granny Smith apples into bite sized pieces. For extra tartness you can toss them in a little lemon juice or 7Up if making ahead. Pat them dry to avoid watering down the salad
- Chop the Snickers:
- Cut five full size Snickers bars into small chunks about the same size as the apples for even bites
- Combine:
- Fold in the prepared apples and Snickers pieces to the pudding mix until everything is evenly coated
- Chill and Garnish:
- Refrigerate the salad until ready to serve for at least one hour. Just before serving chop the remaining apple and Snickers and sprinkle them on top. Finish with a drizzle of caramel sauce and serve cold
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I love the tart crunch that Granny Smith apples provide in this dish. One Thanksgiving my little nephew helped chop all the apples and now making this salad together is our holiday tradition.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator. The apples may release a little juice after a day but a quick stir will bring back the creamy texture. Avoid freezing as the whipped cream will separate and get watery.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to lighten things up swap in light whipped topping or vanilla Greek yogurt. Other tart apples like Pink Lady can be used if Granny Smith is hard to find. Mars Bars or Milky Way can also work as candy subs but Snickers offers the best balance of peanutty crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This salad shines at potlucks barbecues and family reunions. Try serving in clear cups for a portable sweet treat or dish it up in a big glass trifle bowl for a dramatic look on your dessert table.
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Recipe FAQs
- → What type of apples work best?
Granny Smith apples are ideal as their tartness balances the sweetness of the other ingredients. Other crisp, tart apples like Honeycrisp can also be used.
- → Can I make this dessert in advance?
Yes, assemble ahead of time and refrigerate. If storing, toss apples with lemon juice or 7-Up to prevent browning before mixing with other ingredients.
- → Is homemade whipped cream suitable instead of Cool Whip?
You can use freshly whipped heavy cream for a richer, less sweet result. Beat to stiff peaks before folding into the mixture.
- → How can I make it lighter?
Use light whipped topping, swap whole milk for low-fat, or reduce the Snickers bars for a lighter version while keeping traditional flavors.
- → Should caramel sauce be added?
Caramel is optional but adds a rich, sweet finish. Drizzle over the top just before serving for extra flavor and a festive look.