No Bake Snickers Pie: A Decadent Dessert You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of the classic Snickers candy bar, you’re going to fall head over heels for this No Bake Snickers Pie. This creamy, dreamy dessert is packed with all the flavors we adore—peanut butter, caramel, nougat, and chocolate—all in one irresistible pie. Perfect for any occasion, this no-bake treat is easy to make and requires minimal effort, making it a go-to recipe for busy dessert lovers. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something sweet, this No Bake Snickers Pie is sure to impress.
In this post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making this delicious dessert, share tips for perfecting it, and explore why it’s a crowd-pleaser. Plus, we’ll dive into the nutritional information and answer some frequently asked questions. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This No Bake Snickers Pie
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s talk about why this No Bake Snickers Pie is a must-try:
- No Baking Required: As the name suggests, this pie doesn’t require any baking. It’s perfect for hot summer days or when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even beginner bakers can master this recipe.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of peanut butter, caramel, and chocolate is a universal favorite. It’s a dessert that appeals to both kids and adults.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your preferences. Add more Snickers bars, drizzle caramel sauce, or swap out the crust for a chocolate cookie base.
- Perfect for Make-Ahead Desserts: This pie needs time to set in the refrigerator, making it an excellent option for preparing ahead of time.
Ingredients for No Bake Snickers Pie
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dessert:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: These form the base of the pie and provide a sweet, crunchy texture.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust together and adds richness.
For the Filling:
- 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened: Creates a creamy, tangy base for the filling.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds that classic Snickers flavor.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling without making it grainy.
- 1 (3.4-ounce) box cheesecake instant pudding mix: Enhances the creaminess and adds a hint of cheesecake flavor.
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream: Whipped to stiff peaks, this gives the filling a light, airy texture.
- 8 ounces frozen whipped topping, softened, divided: Adds extra fluffiness to the filling and is used for decorating.
- 1 cup chopped Snickers bars: The star ingredient! These provide chunks of caramel, nougat, and chocolate throughout the pie.
For Decorating:
- Extra chopped Snickers bars: For topping the pie and adding a finishing touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish. Use your fingers or the back of a flat measuring cup to press it firmly and evenly.
- If you prefer a baked crust, bake it at 350°F for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely. For a true no-bake option, skip the baking step and let the crust set in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese, peanut butter, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cheesecake instant pudding mix and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
- Slowly pour in the heavy whipping cream while the mixer is running. Whip until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Gently fold in half of the frozen whipped topping (4 ounces) using a spatula.
- Fold in 1 cup of chopped Snickers bars, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Spoon the filling into the cooled pie crust, spreading it evenly with an offset spatula.
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
Step 4: Decorate and Serve
- Once the pie is set, remove it from the refrigerator and take off the plastic wrap.
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pie.
- Sprinkle the top with extra chopped Snickers bars for added texture and flavor.
- Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy!
The History of No-Bake Desserts
No-bake desserts have been a beloved part of culinary traditions for decades, offering a convenient and delicious way to satisfy sweet cravings without the need for an oven. The concept of no-bake treats gained popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States, as home cooks sought quick and easy recipes that could be prepared ahead of time. The rise of refrigerators and the availability of pre-packaged ingredients, such as graham crackers, instant pudding mixes, and whipped toppings, made no-bake desserts a staple in households across the country.
One of the most iconic no-bake desserts is the classic no-bake cheesecake, which became a hit in the 1950s and 1960s. Its simplicity and creamy texture made it a favorite for potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday celebrations. Over time, variations of no-bake desserts emerged, incorporating flavors like chocolate, peanut butter, and fruit. The No Bake Snickers Pie is a modern twist on this tradition, combining the rich flavors of a Snickers candy bar with the ease of a no-bake recipe.
No-bake desserts are not only convenient but also versatile. They can be adapted to suit different dietary preferences, such as gluten-free or vegan, by swapping out ingredients. For example, gluten-free graham crackers can be used for the crust, and dairy-free whipped topping can replace traditional whipped cream. This adaptability has contributed to the enduring popularity of no-bake desserts, making them a go-to option for busy home cooks and dessert enthusiasts alike.
Why Snickers Bars Make the Perfect Dessert Ingredient
Snickers bars are a classic candy that has been delighting taste buds since their introduction in 1930. Known for their irresistible combination of nougat, caramel, peanuts, and milk chocolate, Snickers bars bring a perfect balance of sweetness, saltiness, and crunch to any dessert. This makes them an ideal ingredient for creating indulgent treats like the No Bake Snickers Pie.
One of the reasons Snickers bars work so well in desserts is their versatility. The layers of nougat, caramel, and peanuts add depth and texture, while the milk chocolate coating provides a rich, creamy finish. When chopped and folded into a creamy filling, Snickers bars create pockets of flavor that surprise and delight with every bite. In the No Bake Snickers Pie, the candy bars are incorporated into the filling and used as a topping, ensuring that every slice is packed with their signature taste.
Another advantage of using Snickers bars in desserts is their convenience. They are readily available in most grocery stores and come in various sizes, from fun-size to king-size, making it easy to adjust the quantity based on your recipe. Additionally, Snickers bars can be chopped, melted, or layered, allowing for endless creativity in the kitchen. Whether you’re making a pie, brownies, or ice cream, Snickers bars add a touch of nostalgia and indulgence that’s hard to resist.
Tips for Perfecting Your No Bake Snickers Pie
Creating the perfect No Bake Snickers Pie requires attention to detail and a few expert tips to ensure the best results. Here are some suggestions to help you master this delicious dessert:
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Since this pie relies on a few key ingredients, it’s important to use high-quality products. Opt for creamy peanut butter, full-fat cream cheese, and fresh heavy whipping cream to achieve the richest flavor and texture.
- Chill Your Mixing Bowl and Whisk: For the best results when whipping the heavy cream, chill your mixing bowl and whisk in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before starting. This helps the cream whip up faster and hold its shape better.
- Don’t Overmix the Filling: When combining the cream cheese, peanut butter, and whipped cream, mix just until the ingredients are incorporated. Overmixing can cause the filling to become too dense and lose its light, airy texture.
- Use an Offset Spatula for Smoothing: An offset spatula is a handy tool for spreading the filling evenly in the pie crust and creating a smooth, professional-looking finish on top.
- Let It Set Properly: Patience is key when making no-bake desserts. Allow the pie to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to ensure it sets completely and slices neatly.
- Get Creative with Toppings: While chopped Snickers bars are the classic choice for decorating, feel free to experiment with other toppings like chocolate shavings, caramel drizzle, or crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 10 servings):
- Calories: 808 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Protein: 13g
- Fat: 61g
- Saturated Fat: 31g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 106mg
- Sodium: 440mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 38g
While this No Bake Snickers Pie is undeniably rich and indulgent, it’s perfect for special occasions or as an occasional treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Candy Bar?
Absolutely! While Snickers bars are the star of this recipe, you can substitute them with other candy bars like Milky Way, Twix, or Reese’s Cups for a fun twist.
How Long Does This Pie Last?
Stored in the refrigerator, this pie will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes! This pie is an excellent make-ahead dessert. Prepare it the day before and let it chill overnight for the best results.
Is There a Gluten-Free Option?
To make this pie gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust and ensure the pudding mix and Snickers bars are gluten-free.
No Bake Snickers Pie: A Decadent Dessert You’ll Love
Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of peanut butter, caramel, and nougat with this No-Bake Snickers Pie. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, this dessert is easy to make and requires no baking. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines the classic taste of Snickers bars with a smooth, decadent filling. Follow the simple steps below to create this irresistible treat!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 (3.4 oz) box cheesecake instant pudding mix
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz frozen whipped topping, softened (divided)
- 1 cup chopped Snickers bars (plus extra for decoration)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a small bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie dish using your fingers or the back of a flat measuring cup.
- For a no-bake option, use a store-bought graham cracker crust. Otherwise, bake the crust at 350°F for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely.
- Make the Filling:
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the cream cheese, peanut butter, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cheesecake instant pudding mix and continue mixing.
- Slowly pour in the heavy whipping cream while the mixer is running, and beat until the mixture is thick and fluffy.
- Gently fold in 4 oz (half) of the whipped topping using a spatula.
- Fold in 1 cup of chopped Snickers bars.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Spoon the filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top with an offset spatula.
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
- Decorate and Serve:
- Before serving, top the pie with the remaining whipped topping and decorate with additional chopped Snickers bars.
- Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- For a smoother texture, chop the Snickers bars finely or pulse them in a food processor.
- If you’re short on time, use a store-bought graham cracker crust to make this dessert 100% no-bake.
- For a more elegant presentation, use a glass pie dish and make your own crust.
Nutrition
- Calories: 808 kcal per serving
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Fat: 61g
- Saturated Fat: 31g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
Final Thoughts
This No Bake Snickers Pie is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the combination of peanut butter, caramel, and chocolate. It’s easy to make, requires no baking, and is guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and delivers incredible results every time.