Who doesn’t love a fun dessert that has the whimsical flair of a salad? The Snickers Salad Recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’ll tantalize your taste buds. This creamy, crunchy dish is not just a sweet treat; it’s a conversation starter and perfect for potlucks and family gatherings. Trust me, once you serve this delightful dish, everyone will be clamoring for your secret recipe.
The Snickers Salad is not your typical salad, it’s a dessert masquerading as a salad. Combining elements like whipped cream, pudding, and those iconic Snickers bars, it is creamy, indulgent, and downright addictive. Originating in the Midwest, this dish blends nostalgia with those beloved flavors of the classic candy bar, making it a staple at family cookouts and holiday celebrations.
As a chef and food blogger, I love how this recipe invites creativity. You can customize ingredients and even swap in your favorite candies to make it uniquely yours. When I first tried this delightful dish years ago, I was taken by surprise, it was a dessert that looked like a salad but tasted like heaven.
Ingredients
- 3 large Snickers bars – chopped (feel free to double for a sweeter kick)
- 1 cup green apples – diced (truly balances the sweetness)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup whipped topping (or swap with whipped cream for a richer taste)
- 1 cup instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
Instructions
Step 1:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix. Whisk until smooth, and let it sit for about five minutes to thicken. This is where the magic begins.
Step 2:
Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated with the pudding mixture. You want it to be light and airy, just like a good dessert should be.
Step 3:
Next, add in the chopped Snickers bars, diced green apples, and mini marshmallows. Stir carefully so you don’t crush the candy bars; we want those delightful bites intact.
Step 4:
Once everything’s mixed evenly, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5:
When you’re ready to serve, give it a gentle stir and scoop it into dessert bowls. You can garnish with additional Snickers pieces on top for extra flare.

Nutritional Information
While this Snickers Salad Recipe isn’t exactly a health food, it does pack some charm. Each serving (roughly half a cup) contains about 200 calories, depending on how generous you are with the ingredients. It’s perfect for a treat every once in a while, after all, balance is key.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to lighten it up a bit, consider swapping out regular Snickers for mini or fun-size versions to control portions. You could also use sugar-free pudding and whipped topping for a lighter take. Fresh fruit can replace some of the candy for a refreshing twist while still keeping that delightful flavor.
Serving Suggestions
The Snickers Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of desserts. Serve it alongside a slice of crisp blueberry pie or with warm blueberry biscuits for a delightful, sweet spread. It’s also a fantastic potluck dish that always sparks joy among guests.
Common Mistakes
One of the biggest mistakes people make is not letting the Snickers Salad chill long enough. If you serve it right after mixing, the flavors will be flat and the ingredients not as cohesive. Also, be careful not to overmix your whipped topping; we want to keep that fluffy texture while folding in the ingredients.
Chef’s Notes
- For a nutty twist, add some crushed peanuts for crunch.
- If you want a chocolatey flair, try using chocolate pudding instead of vanilla.
- Let your children help chop and mix; it’s a fun way to get them involved in the kitchen.
FAQs
- Q1: Can I make this salad in advance?
A1: Absolutely; In fact, it tastes even better the next day after chilling, so feel free to prepare it a day in advance. - Q2: What if I have leftover Snickers?
A2: Lucky you; Just chop them up and toss them into your next batch. They’re also great for snacking. - Q3: Can I substitute the apples?
A3: Yes, pears or even bananas can work, although bananas might brown quicker. Just keep that in mind.
You can enjoy many delightful dishes on my blog, like the light and fluffy Watergate Salad, or indulge in some delicious Blueberry Biscuits. Each recipe carries its own story and charm, just as the Snickers Salad does. I can’t wait for you to try it, share it, and watch your friends and family dive right in. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
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Snickers Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This whimsical Snickers Salad is a playful and creamy dessert packed with sweet and crunchy flavors. A Midwest classic, it’s perfect for potlucks and family get-togethers.
Ingredients
- 3 large Snickers bars, chopped
- 1 cup green apples, diced
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup whipped topping (or use whipped cream for extra richness)
- 1 cup instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together cold milk and vanilla pudding mix until smooth. Let it rest for about 5 minutes to thicken.
- Fold in the whipped topping gently until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Stir in chopped Snickers bars, diced apples, and mini marshmallows. Mix with care to keep the candy pieces whole.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour so the flavors can blend nicely.
- Before serving, give it a soft stir and portion into dessert cups. Top with extra chopped Snickers if you like.
Notes
Try swapping vanilla pudding with chocolate for a richer twist. For added texture, sprinkle in some crushed peanuts. Let kids help with chopping and mixing – it’s a fun family activity.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: snickers salad, dessert salad, potluck recipe, easy dessert