Snickers Salad

by

Snickers Salad

Ingredients:

  • 1 package (3.4 oz/102g) vanilla instant pudding mix
  • 1 cup 2% or whole milk
  • 2 cups Cool Whip (thawed)
  • 4 small Granny Smith apples (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
  • 6 Snickers bars (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • ½ cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling, if desired)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Base

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla instant pudding mix and milk. Continue whisking for about 2 minutes until the pudding mixture is smooth and thickened. Allow the pudding to sit for about 5 minutes to set slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Fold in the Cool Whip

Once the pudding has thickened, gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip. This will create a light, creamy base that will coat the apples and candy pieces without becoming too heavy. Mix until fully combined, and the texture should remain airy and smooth.

Step 3: Add the Apples

Toss the chopped Granny Smith apples into the pudding-Cool Whip mixture. Granny Smith apples are perfect for this recipe because their tartness provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet pudding and candy. Stir gently to ensure the apples are evenly coated without breaking them down too much.

Step 4: Incorporate the Snickers Bars

Fold in the bite-sized Snickers pieces, making sure to leave a few pieces behind for garnish, if desired. Mix gently, being careful not to over-mix as you want to preserve the texture of the candy pieces. The chewy caramel and nougat in the Snickers will provide a delightful contrast to the crisp apples and creamy pudding.

Step 5: Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

Add ½ cup of caramel sauce to the mixture and gently fold it in to create a swirl effect throughout the salad. If you love the rich taste of caramel, feel free to add extra caramel sauce for more depth of flavor. The caramel will bring a sweet richness to complement the apples and Snickers.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill. This rest time will help the pudding mixture thicken further and give the apples time to absorb some of the flavors.

Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and garnish with the reserved Snickers pieces on top for an extra burst of candy and texture. Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top for that extra decadent touch.

Tips for Success:

  • Prevent Browning: To keep the apples from browning, toss them with a little lemon juice before adding them to the pudding mixture.
  • Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared up to 6 hours in advance. However, to maintain the texture of the Snickers, add the candy pieces just before serving. This ensures they stay chewy and fresh.
  • Customize It: Feel free to swap Snickers for other candy bars like Milky Way, Twix, or even Butterfingers. You can also add chopped peanuts or crushed pretzels for added crunch and contrast.
  • Lighter Option: For a lighter version, use sugar-free pudding mix and light Cool Whip to reduce calories without sacrificing too much flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Snickers Salad is a playful, indulgent twist on the classic fruit salad, transforming it into a creamy, crunchy, and chewy dessert. The tartness of Granny Smith apples balances perfectly with the sweetness of the pudding and caramel, while the Snickers bars add a delightful richness and texture. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, potluck, or just because you deserve a treat, this dessert salad is sure to impress and disappear quickly. It’s a fun, sweet indulgence that tastes like dessert but still incorporates fresh fruit!

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