Snickers Layer Cake Recipe

If you’ve ever wished the classic candy bar could be upscaled to party-centerpiece status, look no further than this Snickers Layer Cake. Picture three lush chocolate sponges stacked with an irresistible peanut butter nougat cream, house-made caramel, and plenty of chopped Snickers bars tucked between the layers. Every bite is a rich, gooey mashup of chocolate, caramel, peanuts, and cream—just like the nostalgic treat, only more spectacular. This is a dessert that’s impossible to resist, and one you’ll make again and again for every celebration in your life.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this Snickers Layer Cake is half the fun—the list is simple but mighty, and each component adds something special. Think of it as building blocks: deeply flavored chocolate, fluffy peanut nougat, silky caramel, and those crunchy, nutty bites that make the finished cake truly unforgettable.

• All-purpose flour: Gives structure and softness to each sponge layer—be sure to measure carefully for perfect texture.
• Cocoa powder: Provides deep, intense chocolate flavor; use unsweetened for best results.
• Baking powder and baking soda: These work together for a beautifully risen, tender crumb.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors, especially the chocolate and caramel.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps keep it moist and tender.
• Vegetable oil: Adds richness and ensures every bite is perfectly soft.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and add that irreplaceable cake fluffiness.
• Buttermilk: Adds tang and tenderness—if you’re out, use milk with a splash of vinegar.
• Hot coffee: Intensifies the chocolate notes without tasting like coffee (promise!), plus keeps the crumb ultra-moist.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor and ties everything together.
• Cream cheese: The backbone of the nougat cream, providing a mild tang and silky texture.
• Peanut butter: For that unmistakable Snickers flavor—go for creamy, but crunchy works if you love extra bites.
• Heavy cream: Whips up light and fluffy, folding into the nougat for extra volume and smoothness.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling just enough; also great for creating a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Sugar (for caramel): Caramelizes to a deep golden color for your homemade caramel layer; watch closely!
• Butter: Makes the caramel rich and luxurious; use unsalted to control the overall saltiness.
• Heavy cream (for caramel): Creates a luxuriously smooth caramel that won’t firm up too hard.
• Pinch of salt: Turns your caramel into a sophisticated treat and balances the sweetness.
• Chocolate ganache (100 g chocolate + 100 ml cream): The glossy, drippy finish that makes this cake absolutely jaw-dropping.
• Salted peanuts: For crunch and that signature salty-sweet bite every Snickers Layer Cake deserves.
• Chopped Snickers bars: Add surprise, chew, and instant recognition—don’t skimp!
• Buttercream swirls (optional): If you’re feeling extra fancy, pipe on a few for elegance.

How to Make Snickers Layer Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Sponge Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F) and prepping three 20 cm (8-inch) round cake pans—grease them well and line the bottoms with parchment paper. In one bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a second bowl, beat the sugar, oil, eggs, buttermilk (or your easy buttermilk substitute), and vanilla until smooth. Gently fold in the dry mixture, then pour in the hot coffee. The batter will look runny—just the way you want it for rich, moist cakes! Divide evenly among your pans and bake for about 25–30 minutes. Let the sponges cool completely before assembling your Snickers Layer Cake.

Step 2: Make the Nougat Cream

While the cakes are cooling, whip together your nougat filling. Beat softened cream cheese with peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until soft peaks form (think stable, but not too stiff). Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture—this step keeps your nougat filling airy and cloud-like. Chill until you’re ready to use.

Step 3: Cook the Caramel Sauce

Next, create that irresistible caramel layer! Melt sugar over medium heat in a heavy-bottomed saucepan, swirling gently until it turns deep amber—don’t stir, just swirl, and keep a close watch. Once it’s golden, add the butter and stir until fully melted, then carefully pour in the cream (watch for bubbling!). Finish with a pinch of salt and stir until smooth. Let the caramel cool slightly so it thickens but remains spreadable.

Step 4: Assemble the Snickers Layer Cake

It’s time for the fun part—building your masterpiece! Place one sponge layer on a cake stand. Spread a generous layer of nougat cream over the top, then drizzle on the cooled caramel, and scatter with chopped salted peanuts and Snickers bars for epic texture. Repeat with the next sponge. Place the final cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the rest of the nougat cream. Smooth the sides and chill briefly to set.

Step 5: Decorate Like a Pro

Now for the grand finale! Pour glossy chocolate ganache across the top, letting it drip artfully down the sides. If you want, pipe buttercream swirls around the edge for extra flair, then heap on more chopped Snickers bars and peanuts. Finish with a final drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of sea salt to really make this Snickers Layer Cake shine.

How to Serve Snickers Layer Cake

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the wow factor of great garnishes! For extra pizzazz, top your Snickers Layer Cake with whole or halved salted peanuts, generous shavings of chocolate, and plenty of bite-sized pieces of Snickers bar. If you’re feeling playful, add caramel or chocolate syrup artfully across the top. A final touch of flaky sea salt dusted over the ganache makes every bite pop.

Side Dishes

This indulgent cake really shines alongside simple accompaniments: think a scoop of good vanilla ice cream, a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream, or even a scoop of peanut butter ice cream for an extra nod to the signature Snickers flavor. For those who love contrasting textures, serve with crisp apple wedges for a light, refreshing complement.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your Snickers Layer Cake into the showstopper at any event! Try baking mini versions in muffin tins for personal-sized treats, or slice the cake and serve on a big platter scattered with extra peanuts and chocolate chunks for a rustic, decadent look. For birthdays, add candles and colorful sprinkles on top, or garnish each slice with a small scoop of ice cream for a playful ice cream cake experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Snickers Layer Cake tightly with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay moist and delicious for up to four days—though let’s be honest, a cake this good rarely lasts that long! The flavors actually meld and become even richer after a day.

Freezing

Snickers Layer Cake freezes like a dream if you want to make it ahead. Slice the cake or freeze it whole, tightly wrapped in several layers of plastic and foil (or use a freezer-safe container). Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving; the caramel and nougat take on an almost fudge-like texture that’s totally addictive.

Reheating

If you’d like your cake slices lightly warmed for that gooey, melty texture, zap them in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds. The caramel and ganache will soften just enough to make every bite pure chocolate-peanut bliss—just be careful not to overheat so you don’t melt the nougat filling completely.

FAQs

Can I make the caramel sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the caramel up to five days ahead—store it in a jar in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature or gently warm it in the microwave so it’s pourable before assembling your Snickers Layer Cake.

What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?

If buttermilk isn’t on hand, make a quick substitute by mixing 1 teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice into 1 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for a few minutes so it thickens, then use it as directed for fluffy, tender cake layers.

Can I use store-bought caramel or nougat?

You sure can! Store-bought caramel can be substituted in a pinch if you’re pressed for time, though the homemade caramel really makes the Snickers Layer Cake special. For the nougat, a good-quality marshmallow fluff mixed with a bit of peanut butter also works as a fun shortcut.

How do I stop my ganache from splitting?

Be sure both your chocolate and cream are warm but not hot, and mix gently until you have a smooth, glossy ganache. If it does split, stir in a teaspoon of cold heavy cream at a time until it comes back together.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you can still enjoy all the decadent layers of your Snickers Layer Cake.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for the ultimate celebration treat, you can’t go wrong with this Snickers Layer Cake. Every layer is pure fun and nostalgia with a grown-up twist. Bake one for your next special occasion, and don’t be surprised when your friends beg you for the recipe.

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