By Never in a million years did I think I would be making and enjoying an apple and Snickers salad, but here we are! And it's because I took my grandma's Midwest classic and put a healthy, protein-packed spin on it. This high-protein snack has been my go-to for post-workouts thanks to the best balance of carbs, fiber, and protein.
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I was that kid that my dad had to say, "Just try the tuna pasta salad", "just take a little Snickers salad", you'll like it, while at the church potlucks. I would never try these without a lot of persuasion!
The funny thing about getting older is that as our palettes grow, we realize that we do, in fact, like these recipes and now understand why our grandmothers chose those to make. So when I saw Snickers salad starting to pick up steam on social media, I knew it was time to put my better-for-you spin on it for a high-protein snack.
Jump to:
dice your apples
Some people will thinly slice the apples with a mandolin or just good knife skills. I don't understand this because it's hard to eat that way! Instead, opt for finely dicing the apples (or using a nifty chopper to do it for you).
key ingredients & swaps
All substitutions are a 1:1 substitute unless otherwise noted. See the recipe card for quantities.
- Apple: Opt for a medium-sized one and keep the skin on. A green apple is also delish for a tart option.
- Greek yogurt: Or Skyr yogurt (less tangy) works. Just look for a yogurt with at least 15g of protein per serving. Swapping this for the traditional Cool Whip keeps that creaminess but bumps up the protein way up. Use leftover yogurt in one of our many other desserts with Greek yogurt!
- Soy milk: This is just what we always have on hand. Any other cow's milk or plant milk with at least 6g of protein per serving will work.
- Dates: These have an unmistakably caramel flavor plus lots of fiber, so I much prefer to use these over caramel sauce. In testing, this recipe actually worked best with a harder date because they are easier to chop very small. There are many varieties, but I would just look at them or feel the bag to see if they seem dry and hard. Medjool dates are typically very soft.
- Chocolate: This is a rare case where I like to use sugar-free chocolate chips because there is already plenty of sugar from the apples and dates. I prefer to use this over Snickers bars chopped into bite-size pieces, but if you have leftover candy - use that and adjust how much for your desired sweetness.
- Peanut butter: Combine crunchy peanut butter and PB powder for the perfect nuttiness and a high protein content. Creamy peanut butter or all peanut butter will work too.
This recipe has not been tested with other substitutions or variations. If you replace or add any ingredients, please let us know how it turned out in the comments below!
high protein ingredient spotlight: pb powder
Peanut butter powder is just what it sounds like: peanut dried and turned into a powder. Sometimes it has added sugar, sometimes not.
We prefer the brand PB Fit because it has the most protein, but in general, PB powders have the same amount of protein as peanut butter, but virtually no fat, and thus far fewer calories. Try it in our no-bake protein cookies without protein powder and chickpea date smoothie.
step by step: tips to nail this caramel apple salad every time
- Dice the apples small: This ensures you get an even bite every time. Small chopped apples (all ingredients really) are key to great dessert salads!
- Dice the dates very small: Same as above! No one likes a bite with just one ingredient.
- Mix in a meal prep container: This stores really well, so I like to make it in a large jar or Tupperware container. Less cleanup!
quick recipe video
be mindful of how much milk you add
The yogurt I use is very thick, so I only needed 2 tbsps of milk. However, if yours is thicker, start with no milk or at least less, and see how the texture is. Then add more as needed. You definitely won't need a full cup of milk like you would if you made the original Snickers salad with instant vanilla pudding mix.
troubleshooting & testing notes
I can't mix it in the jar!
This happened to me the first time, and then I realized I needed to add the milk and yogurt first to make a "pudding mixture". Then mix in the PB powder and peanut butter so the sauce is ready. Add the chunky stuff last and shake to coat the snicker apple salad.
how to store & meal prep it
This apple and snicker salad recipe will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge in an airtight container. It makes a stellar breakfast! Feel free to prep multiple jar for an easy meal prep snack.
got apples? try these recipes!
Recipe
apple and snickers salad (a high protein snack)
Ingredients
- 1 medium apple (chopped small)
- ½ c skyr yogurt (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 tablespoon soy milk (or any milk with at least 6g of protein per serving)
- 2 dates, diced small ( a harder variety is preferred )
- 1 tablespoon sugar free chocolate chips (or any kind you like)
- 1 tablespoon pb fit (or any peanut butter powder)
- 1 tablespoon crunchy peanut butter (creamy is fine too)
Before you start!
If you make this recipe, please take a moment to leave us a review. We love to hear from you!
Instructions
- In a bowl or large jar, add the ½ c skyr yogurt, 2 tablespoon soy milk, 1 tablespoon pb fit, and 1 tablespoon crunchy peanut butter. Mix with a spoon. Then add in the chopped 1 medium apple 2 dates, diced small, and 1 tablespoon sugar free chocolate chips. Mix or cover the jar and shake to coat. Enjoy!If your yogurt isn't super thick, wait to add the milk to see how the texture is. Then add a little at a time.
Video
Notes
This happened to me the first time, and then I realized I needed to add the milk and yogurt first. Then mix in the PB powder and peanut butter so the sauce is ready. Add the chunky stuff last and shake to coat. Storage: This will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge in an airtight container. It makes a stellar breakfast! Feel free to prep multiple jars for an easy meal prep snack.
Looking for more information?
Additional substitution information can be found above in the substitution section of this post.
Nutrition Disclaimer
Nutritional information is an estimate and for informational purposes only.
Just whipped this up for dessert! Was very filling and satisfying! I liked it a lot. If you were not too concerned about calories a few extra dates makes it feel quite decadent.
Totally agree!!
This is so delicious! My 5 year old and I both love it. I love that I don't have to feel guilty giving her a sweet snack.
So perfect!! And so happy you guys enjoyed 🙂