Snickers Cake Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth that craves a decadent, rich, and satisfying dessert, then this Snickers Cake is right up your alley. Layered with luscious chocolate ganache, a perfectly moist and tender cake infused with coffee and cocoa, and topped off with golden caramel studded with crunchy peanuts, this dessert brings all the beloved elements of a Snickers bar into a spectacular homemade cake. Each bite offers the perfect balance of chocolate, caramel, crunch, and a hint of coffee that elevates every flavor, making the Snickers Cake a show-stopping centerpiece for any occasion or an indulgent treat to enjoy whenever you want to spoil yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Snickers Cake recipe uses simple yet carefully chosen ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the rich cocoa powder that gives depth to the cake, to the silky ganache made with quality milk chocolate and creamy butter, every component enhances the final result beautifully.

• Milk chocolate (500g): This forms the base of the ganache and gives that smooth, rich chocolate flavor.
• Double cream (400ml for ganache, 180ml for caramel): Adds creaminess and soft texture to both the ganache and caramel sauce.
• Unsalted butter (50g for ganache, 150g for caramel): Provides richness and helps create a glossy, luscious finish in both ganache and caramel.
• Cocoa powder (50g): Brings depth and chocolate intensity to the cake layers.
• Instant coffee (1 teaspoon): Mixed with hot water to enhance and lift the chocolate flavor subtly in the cake.
• Vegetable oil (200ml): Keeps the cake moist and tender without weighing it down.
• Buttermilk (120ml): Adds a slight tang and helps achieve a soft crumb in the cake.
• Eggs (4): Bind the batter and contribute to structure and fluffiness.
• Plain flour (200g): The foundation of the cake’s structure.
• Brown sugar (125g): Adds moisture and subtle molasses notes.
• Granulated sugar (125g for cake, 300g for caramel): Sweetens both the cake and creates that irresistible golden caramel.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Works with vinegar to help the cake rise and become light.
• White vinegar (2 teaspoons): Reacts with baking soda to create a fluffy texture.
• Salt (1/8 teaspoon for caramel): Balances sweetness and enhances caramel depth.
• Peanuts (200g, chopped): Provide the crunchy, nutty contrast for the caramel topping.

How to Make Snickers Cake

Step 1: Crafting the Ganache

Start by making the silky ganache that will bind the cake layers and add that indulgent chocolate punch. Combine milk chocolate, double cream, and unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between, until smooth and glossy. Don’t rush this step—melting the chocolate gently ensures a perfectly smooth ganache. If you notice lumps, simply strain the mixture through a sieve to get the texture just right. Once ready, cover it and let it set, either by leaving it at room temperature overnight or chilling it in the fridge for a few hours.

Step 2: Baking the Cake Layers

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare two 8-inch cake tins by greasing and lining them. To make the cake batter, whisk together cocoa powder and hot water combined with instant coffee until smooth, which will infuse the chocolate with a subtle richness. Then add vegetable oil, buttermilk, and eggs, blending well. Stir in both brown and granulated sugars along with the plain flour to create a thick batter. Activate your baking soda by stirring vinegar into it—it will bubble up—and immediately fold it into the batter. Pour the mixture into the cake tins and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before assembling.

Step 3: Making the Caramel and Peanut Topping

To capture the iconic Snickers caramel, you’ll need to melt granulated sugar slowly over medium heat, adding it gradually to avoid burning while stirring constantly. The sugar will transform into a beautiful amber syrup. Take it off the heat and whisk in softened butter followed by warm double cream—a magical transformation that yields a luxurious, sticky caramel. Season with salt to balance the sweetness. Mix 250g of this caramel with your chopped peanuts and refrigerate until it thickens but remains spreadable. Save the leftover caramel for drizzling on the finished cake.

Step 4: Assembling the Snickers Cake

Whip your set ganache until it becomes lighter and fluffy. Place one cake layer on your serving board, spread a thick layer of whipped ganache over it, and pipe a border around the edge to hold your peanut caramel in place. Spoon the chilled peanut caramel mixture into the center, then top with the second cake layer. Use the remaining ganache to ice the sides, creating a sumptuous chocolate coat, before drizzling the reserved caramel across the top. For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped Snickers bars on top. Now, all that’s left is to slice and savor every heavenly bite!

How to Serve Snickers Cake

Garnishes

Enhance your Snickers Cake with a few thoughtful garnishes. A handful of chopped peanuts scattered on top adds texture and beautiful visual appeal, while a drizzle of caramel sauce makes every slice look irresistible. Fresh whipped cream or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can add contrast and elevate the flavors to new heights.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs brilliantly with simple accompaniments that won’t compete with its rich flavors. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream makes a refreshing counterbalance. For something warmer, serve alongside freshly brewed coffee or espresso—a perfect match that complements the subtle coffee notes in the cake itself.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re aiming to impress your guests with presentation, try serving individual slices with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce on the plate and a few whole peanuts or mini Snickers bars on the side. Alternatively, turn this Snickers Cake into a layered parfait by breaking the cake into chunks and layering it with whipped ganache, caramel, and peanuts in clear glasses. It’s an unexpected and fun way to enjoy this indulgent flavor combo.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Snickers Cake keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the cake from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors.

Freezing

You can freeze Snickers Cake for longer storage by wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Reheating

Because this cake is rich and moist, reheating isn’t usually necessary, but if you prefer your cake slightly warm, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture of the ganache and caramel.

FAQs

Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for the ganache?

Absolutely! Using dark chocolate will create a deeper, less sweet ganache which some prefer. Just make sure to maintain the same quantity and balance it with the sweetness from the caramel topping.

What if I don’t have buttermilk on hand?

No worries! You can make a simple buttermilk substitute by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 120ml of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using. This will give the necessary acidity and tenderness to the cake.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, if you swap the plain flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure your baking soda and other ingredients are gluten-free certified for best results.

Is it okay to make the caramel in advance?

Definitely, making the caramel ahead of time can save you effort on the day you assemble the cake. Just store it in the fridge and gently warm it before using if it becomes too hard.

How do I prevent the chocolate ganache from seizing?

The key is to heat the chocolate and cream gently and stir frequently. If your ganache does seize, straining it through a sieve can help smooth out lumps. Also, avoid getting any water in your chocolate as that can cause seizing.

Final Thoughts

This Snickers Cake is a passion project disguised as a dessert, destined to become one of your all-time favorites. It marries classic flavors in an extraordinary way that’s sure to delight both family and friends. Whether for a special celebration or as a well-deserved treat, I encourage you to dive in and create this rich, chocolatey, caramel-packed delight. Your taste buds will thank you for every decadent bite!

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