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If you are looking for a dessert that is both nostalgic and crowd-pleasing Snickers apple salad is the answer Each bite blends crisp tart apples with creamy whipped pudding and those beloved bites of chocolate and caramel
The first time I made this at a summer picnic not a spoonful was left and it has since become our signature family treat
Gather Your Ingredients
- Instant butterscotch pudding mix: Adds rich caramel flavor Use fresh and good-quality pudding for best texture
- Milk: Creamy base for the pudding Whole milk gives the richest result but any type works
- Cool Whip or whipped cream: Gives fluffiness and lightness If going homemade whip the cream until soft peaks for best volume
- Granny smith apples: Tart apples balance the sweet mix Look for firm bright green apples with no bruises
- Snickers candy bars: Chocolate caramel and peanuts in every bite For extra crunch select bars that are fully set and not sticky from heat
- Caramel sauce: The finishing touch Buy a sauce with a short ingredient list or make your own for best taste
How to Make It
- Prepare the Pudding:
- In a medium sized mixing bowl whisk together the instant pudding and milk until no dry powder remains This forms the creamy base which helps blend all the ingredients later
- Fold in the Whipped Cream:
- Gently fold the Cool Whip or freshly whipped cream into the pudding mixture Use a spatula and light motion to keep the mixture fluffy This step creates the salad’s signature airy texture
- Add Apples and Snickers:
- Carefully add the diced granny smith apples and chopped Snickers bars to the bowl Fold them in slowly to avoid bruising the apples or crushing the candy Make sure each piece is coated with the creamy mixture for perfect distribution
- Chill Before Serving:
- Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour This resting time lets the flavors meld together and gives the salad the best texture Serve chilled for maximum crunch
- Garnish and Serve:
- Before serving top with the reserved apple and Snickers pieces Drizzle generously with caramel sauce for that finishing pop of sweetness
My favorite part is adding the tart crisp apple pieces especially since my kids love helping me chop them up One birthday my youngest insisted on adding extra caramel which became a new family tradition
Flavor Boosters
Try swapping butterscotch pudding for vanilla or cheesecake flavors for a subtle twist Green varieties like honeycrisp or pink lady apples can stand in for granny smith if needed For a lighter option use fresh whipped cream
Serving Suggestions
Pair this salad alongside a barbecue meal or serve as part of a potluck dessert table It is also a fun addition to holiday buffets Kids love it as an after school treat or party snack
Creative Twists
In the fall add chopped pears or sprinkle cinnamon over the top For summer celebrations use red apples for extra color Sprinkle with toasted peanuts in winter for a nutty holiday twist
Always taste a piece of apple before adding to ensure it is tart and crisp not mealy
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → What type of apples works best?
Granny smith apples are ideal due to their tartness and firm texture, which balance the sweetness and provide a crisp bite.
- → Can I use a different pudding flavor?
Yes, vanilla or chocolate instant pudding can be used if butterscotch is unavailable, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly.
- → Is homemade whipped cream suitable instead of Cool Whip?
Homemade whipped cream works perfectly and adds a fresher, creamier taste to the salad.
- → How far in advance can I make this?
This dish can be prepared a few hours ahead and chilled, but for best texture, add apples and Snickers shortly before serving.
- → Can I substitute the caramel sauce?
Maple syrup or chocolate sauce can be used instead of caramel for a different twist, but caramel pairs best with the other ingredients.