If you are a fan of indulgent treats that combine crunchy, gooey, and chocolatey in every bite, then you’re going to absolutely love this Snickers Tray Bake Slice Recipe. Inspired by the iconic Snickers bar, this tray bake features a delightful chocolate base, a rich peanut caramel layer loaded with roasted peanuts, and a luscious smooth chocolate topping that sets perfectly. It’s the ideal bake for sharing, perfect for your next gathering or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth craving with a homemade twist that feels extra special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures in this Snickers Tray Bake Slice Recipe. Each ingredient is simple yet essential, from the crumbly biscuit base that provides a firm foundation, to the creamy peanut caramel layer that brings that signature richness and crunch, finishing off with the silky chocolate topping for irresistible indulgence.
- Digestive biscuits or graham crackers (1 cup crushed): These create a crumbly and sturdy base, offering subtle sweetness and great texture.
- Melted butter (1/2 cup): Binds the biscuit crumbs together and adds richness to the base.
- Cocoa powder (1/4 cup): Gives the base a deep chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the caramel and nuts.
- Sugar (1/4 cup): Adds just the right amount of sweetness to complement the cocoa.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 can): The magic behind the smooth, luscious caramel layer.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds a rich, molasses-like depth to the caramel.
- Butter (1/2 cup for caramel layer + 2 tbsp for topping): Enhances flavor and contributes to that buttery caramel texture.
- Roasted peanuts (1 cup): Gives the slice its signature crunch and salty contrast within the caramel.
- Chocolate chips (1.5 cups): Melted into a smooth topping that seals the whole slice with chocolatey goodness.
How to Make Snickers Tray Bake Slice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Chill the Base
Start by lining your baking tray with parchment paper to make sure the slice comes out easily. Combine the crushed digestive biscuits or graham crackers with melted butter, cocoa powder, and sugar in a bowl. Press this mixture firmly into the tray, creating an even layer. Pop it into the fridge to chill for about 10 minutes so it sets nicely before adding the next layers.
Step 2: Create the Peanut Caramel Layer
For the caramel, gently cook the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and butter together in a saucepan over medium heat. Keep stirring consistently; you want this mixture to thicken and turn a gorgeous, golden caramel color — patience here ensures that perfect texture! Once thickened, fold through the roasted peanuts to incorporate that classic Snickers crunch. Spread this peanut caramel layer evenly over the chilled base.
Step 3: Add the Velvety Chocolate Topping
Now for the final flourish — melt the chocolate chips together with the butter until completely smooth and glossy. Pour this chocolatey topping over the caramel layer, smoothing it out with a spatula to cover the whole surface. This silky chocolate layer will set beautifully in the fridge, creating a luscious finish to your slice.
Step 4: Chill and Slice
Allow the assembled Snickers Tray Bake Slice Recipe to chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours, or until firmly set. Once chilled, remove from the tray using the parchment, and cut into generous squares or rectangles. This slice is wonderfully rich, so modest pieces work best to satisfy without overdoing it.
How to Serve Snickers Tray Bake Slice Recipe
Garnishes
For that extra wow factor, sprinkle some crushed pretzels or a handful of chopped peanuts on top before the chocolate sets. A light dusting of sea salt flakes can also enhance the flavors, perfectly balancing the sweetness. These simple touches add enticing texture and brightness to each bite.
Side Dishes
This slice pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream to mellow its richness. For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside sliced fresh strawberries or a raspberry coulis — their tartness cuts through the decadence beautifully. A cup of hot coffee or rich black tea also makes an ideal companion.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, place your Snickers Tray Bake Slice Recipe on a decorative platter and garnish with mini whole Snickers bars or chocolate drizzle. For gifting, wrap individual slices in parchment paper tied with a ribbon — it looks charming and feels thoughtful. You might even layer the slice pieces between wax paper in a tin for a festive treat box.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Snickers Tray Bake Slice Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to a week, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert you can enjoy over several days.
Freezing
If you want to store longer, freeze the slice wrapped tightly in cling film and then placed in a freezer-safe container. It freezes beautifully and can be kept for up to 3 months without losing its wonderful texture.
Reheating
Because this is a no-bake slice, it’s best enjoyed chilled. If you prefer a softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving rather than reheating. This preserves the layers and the delightfully firm chocolate topping.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nut instead of peanuts?
Absolutely! While peanuts are classic for this Snickers-inspired slice, chopped almonds, cashews, or even pecans can be used to add a different but delicious crunch and flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this slice vegan?
To make a vegan version of this Snickers Tray Bake Slice Recipe, substitute the condensed milk with a vegan caramel alternative or coconut condensed milk, use dairy-free chocolate chips and vegan butter. Just keep in mind this will slightly alter the traditional flavor.
Can I add crushed pretzels to the base?
Definitely! Crushed pretzels can be mixed into the biscuit base for an added salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sweet caramel and chocolate layers.
How long does it take to set properly?
This tray bake slice needs at least 2 hours in the refrigerator to firm up well. If you’re in a hurry, placing it in the freezer for around 30 minutes can speed up the setting time.
What’s the best chocolate to use?
Using good-quality milk chocolate chips keeps the classic Snickers flavour, but if you prefer a less sweet dessert, opting for dark chocolate chips around 60–70% cocoa adds a rich, slightly bitter depth that balances the caramel nicely.
Final Thoughts
If you want to wow your friends and family with a dessert that hits all the right notes — crunchy, gooey, sweet, and chocolatey — this Snickers Tray Bake Slice Recipe is your ultimate go-to. It’s an absolute joy to make, share, and devour, bringing that beloved candy bar experience into an easy-to-slice tray bake everyone will adore. Don’t hesitate to whip this up and make your next dessert a memorable one!
Print
Snickers Tray Bake Slice Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich, indulgent Snickers-inspired tray bake featuring a crunchy chocolate biscuit base, a luscious peanut caramel layer, and a smooth chocolate topping. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with layered textures and classic flavors.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 cup crushed digestive biscuits or graham crackers
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup sugar
Peanut Caramel Layer
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
Chocolate Topping
- 1.5 cups chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Tray: Line a baking tray with parchment paper, ensuring the paper covers the base and sides for easy removal of the tray bake later.
- Make the Base: In a bowl, combine crushed digestive biscuits or graham crackers with melted butter, cocoa powder, and sugar. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the lined baking tray to form the base layer. Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to set.
- Cook Peanut Caramel Layer: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and butter. Cook while stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and turns golden, approximately 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Add Peanuts: Stir the roasted peanuts into the thickened caramel mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Immediately spread the peanut caramel evenly over the chilled chocolate biscuit base in the tray.
- Prepare Chocolate Topping: In a heatproof bowl, melt chocolate chips together with butter either using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently until smooth and glossy.
- Assemble & Chill: Pour the melted chocolate topping evenly over the peanut caramel layer, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Place the tray in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate topping is set completely.
- Slice & Serve: Once fully chilled and set, remove the tray bake from the parchment paper and cut into 12 to 16 slices depending on desired size. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Add crushed pretzels to the base mixture or peanut caramel layer for an extra crunchy texture.
- Use dark chocolate chips in the topping for a less sweet, richer chocolate flavor.
- Ensure caramel thickens sufficiently to avoid a runny peanut layer.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Tray Bake
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Inspired
