There’s something undeniably nostalgic about a bowl of Snickers Salad. This sweet, creamy, and crunchy dessert-salad hybrid has graced potluck tables and holiday spreads for decades. It balances tart green apples with fluffy whipped topping and rich caramel and chocolate flavors, all from chopped Snickers bars.
What makes Snickers Salad such a crowd-pleaser is its surprising versatility. It takes just minutes to prepare and can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a casual summer BBQ or a Thanksgiving feast, this dish delivers comfort with a playful twist.
What Kind of Apples Should I Use?
Granny Smith apples are the most popular choice for Snickers Salad because their tartness contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the candy and whipped topping. However, feel free to mix it up with a blend of Honeycrisp and Granny Smith for a sweet-tart medley.
Ingredients for the Snickers Salad
- 6 Granny Smith apples, chopped
- 6 full-size Snickers bars, chopped
- 1 (5.1 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup milk
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- Optional: caramel drizzle for topping

How To Make the Snickers Salad
Step 1: Mix the Pudding Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix with milk until smooth and slightly thickened. Let it sit for 5 minutes to fully set.
Step 2: Fold in the Whipped Topping
Once the pudding base is set, gently fold in the whipped topping using a spatula until fully combined. This will create a light and creamy base.
Step 3: Chop and Combine
Chop the apples and Snickers bars into bite-sized pieces. Fold them into the pudding mixture, making sure everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. Right before serving, drizzle with caramel sauce if desired for an extra indulgent finish.
How to Serve and Store Snickers Salad
Snickers Salad is best served chilled, straight from the fridge. It makes a fantastic addition to dessert tables, potlucks, and casual gatherings. For presentation, serve in a glass bowl to show off the layers and textures.
To store leftovers, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to 2 days, though the apples may begin to soften.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far ahead can I make Snickers Salad?
You can make it up to one day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and add any toppings like caramel drizzle just before serving.
Can I use a different pudding flavor?
Yes! While vanilla is classic, butterscotch or cheesecake pudding adds a unique twist.
Can I make it without pudding?
Absolutely. Some versions skip the pudding entirely and mix the whipped topping directly with the apples and Snickers.
Are there alternatives to Snickers?
Try using Milky Way, Twix, or even peanut butter cups for different flavor profiles.
What if I don’t like Cool Whip?
You can substitute it with homemade whipped cream, but be aware it might deflate quicker than store-bought.
Want More Dessert Salad Ideas?
If you love this creamy and fun Snickers Salad, here are a few more sweet dishes you might enjoy:
- Banana Pudding Recipe: A Southern classic with layers of vanilla pudding, bananas, and Nilla wafers.
- Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake: Rich and indulgent with tart cherries.
- Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars: A cinnamon-sugar twist on cheesecake.
- Raspberry Crescent Rolls: Easy handheld pastries with fruity filling.
- Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate Rice Krispies: Crunchy, creamy, and perfect for snacking.
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you try a different candy bar? Maybe added crushed pretzels or marshmallows?
I love seeing your creative spins on these classic recipes. Questions are welcome too—let’s inspire each other in the kitchen!
For more daily treats and inspiration, check out my Pinterest at Nina Dishes.

Snickers Salad
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Snickers Salad is the ultimate quick-fix dessert that blends tart green apples, creamy vanilla pudding, and fluffy whipped topping with chunks of Snickers bars. It’s a nostalgic treat perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any day you crave something indulgently sweet with a crunchy twist.
Ingredients
6 Granny Smith apples
6 full-size Snickers bars
1 (5.1 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
1 cup milk
1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping
Caramel drizzle (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk the pudding mix with milk until smooth. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated.
3. Chop the apples and Snickers bars into bite-sized pieces.
4. Gently fold apples and Snickers into the pudding mixture.
5. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
6. Drizzle with caramel just before serving if desired.
Notes
Always chill for at least an hour for the best texture.
Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for flavor balance.
Add crushed pretzels or marshmallows for a twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert Salad
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: potluck dessert, no-bake salad, candy apple salad
