I always find this Snickers Salad to be one of those desserts that surprises everyone at the table. It’s creamy, crunchy, and packed with the perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors. The crisp green apples add a refreshing bite, while the chopped Snickers bars bring in layers of chocolate, caramel, nougat, and peanuts. All of it comes together in a light, fluffy vanilla pudding and whipped topping base that tastes like pure comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s simple to prepare, requires no baking, and is always a hit at gatherings. It’s the kind of dessert that makes people smile the moment they take a bite. The sweet and salty flavors mingle beautifully, and it’s incredibly versatile — I can easily adjust it to suit different tastes or occasions. It’s also great for making ahead, so I can relax when guests arrive knowing dessert is ready to serve.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 box (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
¾ cup cold whole milk
1 container (8 ounces) whipped topping, thawed (or 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks)
6 medium Granny Smith apples, divided (reserve 1 for garnish)
6 full-size Snickers bars, divided (reserve 1 for garnish)
¼ cup caramel sauce (optional, for drizzling)
Optional garnish: extra chopped peanuts or additional Snickers pieces
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for 1–2 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened.
Fold the thawed whipped topping into the pudding mixture using a spatula until fully combined and fluffy. If I have time, I like to chill this mixture for about 15 minutes to let it firm up slightly.
Wash, core, and chop 5 of the apples into bite-sized pieces. I usually keep the skin on for color and crunch.
Chill 5 Snickers bars for about 15 minutes (it makes chopping easier), then cut them into bite-sized chunks.
Gently fold the chopped apples and Snickers pieces into the creamy base until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture into a serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours, or up to overnight, to let the flavors meld together.
Before serving, drizzle with caramel sauce and top with reserved chopped Snickers pieces and optional peanuts for extra crunch.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 12 servings.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1–2 hours (best if chilled longer)
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
Variations
Swap the pudding flavor: I sometimes use butterscotch, cheesecake, or chocolate instant pudding for a fun twist.
Change the candy: Try Milky Way, Twix, or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for new flavor combinations.
Add more fruit: Grapes, sliced bananas, or pineapple tidbits pair beautifully with the creamy base.
Add crunch: Fold in crushed pretzels, cookies, or toasted coconut for texture.
Make it lighter: Use sugar-free pudding, light whipped topping, and sugar-free candy bars.
Go dairy-free: Substitute plant-based milk and dairy-free whipped topping to make it suitable for everyone.
Storage/Reheating
I always store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for 2–3 days, though the apples may soften slightly over time. I never freeze it because the whipped topping and apples lose their texture when thawed. If I notice any separation after storing, I simply give it a gentle stir before serving again.
FAQs
What kind of apples work best?
I like using Granny Smith apples because their tart flavor balances the sweetness of the pudding and candy bars, but Honeycrisp or Fuji apples also work well.
Can I make it the day before?
Yes, and I often do. It tastes even better the next day after the flavors blend together. Just keep it tightly covered in the fridge until serving.
How can I prevent the apples from browning?
If I’m prepping ahead, I toss the chopped apples lightly with lemon juice before folding them into the mixture. It keeps them looking fresh and crisp.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought topping?
Absolutely. I whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, then fold it in just as I would with store-bought whipped topping.
Why is my salad watery?
This can happen if it sits too long or if the apples release moisture. Chilling it for just the right amount of time (a few hours, not days) and using fresh, firm apples helps prevent that.
Conclusion
Every time I make this Snickers Salad, I’m reminded how the simplest ingredients can create something truly special. The creamy base, the crunch of the apples, and the rich sweetness of the Snickers come together in perfect harmony. It’s a fun, crowd-pleasing dessert that works for any occasion — from potlucks to family dinners. Once I tried it, it quickly became one of my go-to recipes for something that’s both easy and unforgettable.
This Snickers Salad is a creamy, crunchy dessert made with tart Granny Smith apples, chopped Snickers bars, and a fluffy vanilla pudding and whipped topping base. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with caramel and chocolate in every bite — a crowd-pleasing treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
¾ cup cold whole milk
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed (or 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks)
6 medium Granny Smith apples, divided (reserve 1 for garnish)
6 full-size Snickers bars, divided (reserve 1 for garnish)
¼ cup caramel sauce (optional, for drizzling)
Optional garnish: chopped peanuts or additional Snickers pieces
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for 1–2 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened.
Fold in the thawed whipped topping until fully combined and fluffy. Chill for 15 minutes if desired for a firmer texture.
Wash, core, and chop 5 apples into bite-sized pieces, leaving the skin on for color and crunch.
Chill 5 Snickers bars for 15 minutes, then chop them into bite-sized chunks.
Fold the chopped apples and Snickers pieces into the pudding mixture until evenly coated.
Transfer the salad to a serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 1–2 hours (or overnight) to allow flavors to meld.
Before serving, drizzle with caramel sauce and top with reserved Snickers and peanuts if desired.
Notes
Use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast or swap with Honeycrisp for extra sweetness.
Toss chopped apples with lemon juice to prevent browning if making ahead.
Try butterscotch or cheesecake pudding for a flavor twist.
Use sugar-free pudding and light whipped topping for a lower-calorie version.
Best served chilled; do not freeze as the texture will change.
