Snickers Salad Recipe is a creamy, no-bake dessert salad made with crisp apples, chopped Snickers bars, and a light vanilla pudding and whipped topping base.
Author’s Notes
The Utah Dessert “Salad” Thing
Calling this a “salad” might sound funny, but in Utah dessert salads are a potluck tradition. This version blends diced Granny Smith apples, chopped Snickers, instant vanilla pudding, and fluffy whipped topping for a sweet, crunchy treat.
Because it includes fruit and is tossed together like a salad, you may see it served alongside main dishes at family dinners and gatherings — it’s a regional comfort-food favorite.
Ingredients in This Snickers Salad Recipe
| Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|
| Instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4-ounce) | Whisk with milk until smooth and slightly thickened. |
| Frozen whipped topping (8-ounce), fully thawed | Fold in gently for a light, fluffy texture. Or use homemade whipped cream (see tip). |
| Granny Smith apples (4) | Dice right before mixing for the best crunch; a quick salted water soak prevents browning. |
| Snickers bars (5 full-sized) | Chill briefly before chopping for neat pieces; reserve a bit for garnish. |
| Caramel sauce and toffee bits (optional) | Add just before serving for extra sweetness and crunch. |
Quick Tip
This recipe calls for one 8-ounce container of whipped topping. To make quick homemade whipped cream: beat 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla in a stand mixer until firm peaks form (about 2–4 minutes).
Chelsea’s Note
Origin and Serving
Snickers Salad is a retro-style dessert commonly found at potlucks and family gatherings in parts of the Midwest and Mountain West. It’s usually served alongside casseroles and savory dishes, which is part of the charm.
If you enjoy dessert salads, variations like Oreo Fluff, Raspberry Cheesecake Fluff, or Watergate Salad offer similar creamy, sweet combinations.
Use Your Leftover Apples Here:
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Snickers Salad Recipe
Equipment
-
Large bowl
Ingredients
- 4 Granny Smith apples diced
- 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup milk whole, 1%, or 2%
- 1 (8-ounce) container frozen whipped topping fully thawed
- 5 full-sized Snickers candy bars
- Caramel sauce and/or peanut butter for drizzling, optional
- Toffee bits optional topping
Instructions
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Start with the apples: dice into small, bite-size pieces (no need to peel). To prevent browning, soak in 3 cups room-temperature water with 1½ teaspoons fine sea salt for 5–10 minutes. Drain, rinse, shake off excess, and pat dry.
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Unwrap and dice the Snickers bars into small pieces. Reserve about 1/4 cup for garnish.
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In a large bowl, briskly whisk the instant pudding mix and milk until smooth and slightly thickened. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until combined.
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Fold in the diced apples and chopped Snickers with a spatula. Cover and chill for 30 minutes or until ready to serve.
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When ready to serve, stir gently, smooth the top, and garnish with reserved Snickers pieces, toffee bits, and a drizzle of caramel or peanut butter if desired. Serve immediately.
Recipe Notes
Storage: Best served fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 2 days.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an approximation and does not include optional toppings.