Snickers Apple Caramel Salad

This Snickers Salad is my go to when I want something that feels special but takes almost no effort A creamy dreamy mix of crunchy tart apples fluffy whipped topping and bites of Snickers candy bars it is a quick crowd pleaser for kids and adults alike I always bring it to family barbecues and potlucks and it disappears fast

I first made this when hosting my cousins on a summer afternoon and every single bite was gone before I got seconds It is now requested for every holiday

Ingredients

• Instant vanilla pudding mix: gives a creamy base look for a name brand for best texture
• Whole milk: mixes with pudding to get that lush consistency go for whole milk for extra richness
• Cool Whip or heavy whipping cream: brings a fluffy light feel I use homemade whipped cream when feeling fancy but store bought is great for speed
• Granny Smith apples: bring tartness and crunch firm shiny apples without bruising work best
• Snickers bars: provide chocolate caramel peanut goodness for chew and sweet bites choose full size bars for better chunks
• Caramel sauce: adds a finishing drizzle pick thicker caramel for a pretty topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the pudding:

Whisk together instant vanilla pudding mix and whole milk in a large bowl for two to three minutes until thick and smooth Scrape down sides as needed for a lump free texture

Prep apples:

Core and chop all but one Granny Smith apple into bite sized chunks To keep them from browning toss with lemon juice or a splash of lemon lime soda if prepping ahead Then pat dry so the salad stays fluffy

Chop the Snickers:

Cut all but one of the Snickers bars into small pieces Try for quarter to half inch chunks so every spoonful gets some candy

Mix it together:

Gently fold the chopped apples and Snickers bars into the pudding mixture until evenly coated Try not to stir too hard so the whipped topping stays light

Chill the salad:

Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least forty five minutes This lets the flavors meld and makes it extra creamy

Add toppings and serve:

Just before serving chop the last apple and last Snickers into pieces Scatter them over the top of the salad Drizzle with caramel sauce if using Serve cold and watch it disappear

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I love using giant Granny Smith apples for this because their tartness stands out even under all the sweet layers One year my niece helped me stir in the candy and it felt like the best easy dessert memory we could make

Storage tips

To keep leftovers fresh refrigerate in an airtight container for up to two days The apple chunks will soften over time still tasty but best eaten within twenty four hours You can chop and prep the apples and Snickers a few hours ahead then mix right before serving for maximum crunch

Ingredient substitutions

No Snickers on hand You can use Milky Way bars or Heath bars for a different twist For extra tang mix in a few pink lady apples with the Granny Smith Substitute vanilla Greek yogurt and whipped cream for a lighter but still creamy blend

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Serving suggestions

Serve in a large bowl for parties or spoon into individual cups for a pretty presentation Topped with extra caramel and a sprinkle of chopped nuts it feels almost like a caramel apple sundae Try adding a light layer of crushed pretzels on top for crunch

Cultural history

Dessert salads like this are a quirky Midwest tradition showing up at every picnic or church gathering across the region They became popular in the late twentieth century as a fun way to turn familiar candies and fruits into a creamy sweet treat that travels well and feeds a crowd

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this treat several hours in advance. To prevent apples from browning, toss them with a little lemon juice or 7-Up before mixing in.

→ Is there a substitute for Cool Whip?

Absolutely! Freshly whipped cream works just as well. Beat heavy cream until stiff peaks form and fold into the salad mixture.

→ Which type of apples works best?

Granny Smith apples are preferred for their tart flavor and crispness, complementing the sweetness of the chocolate and caramel.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh for ideal texture.

→ Can I add extra toppings?

Of course! Additional caramel drizzle, chopped salted peanuts, or extra apple slices make wonderful toppings for extra crunch and flavor.