Ultimate Snickers Tray Bake Recipe

In our household, dessert time is serious business. We’re always on the lookout for treats that are both delicious and relatively simple to whip up, especially when life gets hectic. That’s where this Snickers Tray Bake recipe comes in – a true game-changer. From the very first bite, it was clear this was going to be a family favorite. The combination of crunchy biscuit base, chewy Snickers chunks, and rich, smooth chocolate is simply divine. It’s the kind of dessert that disappears in minutes at parties and gatherings, leaving everyone wanting more. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring no baking whatsoever! If you’re a chocolate lover, and especially if you have a soft spot for Snickers bars, prepare to fall head over heels for this no-bake masterpiece. Trust me, this Snickers Tray Bake is about to become your go-to dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients, making it a breeze to assemble even if you’re not a seasoned baker. Let’s break down each component and why it plays a crucial role in creating the perfect Snickers Tray Bake.

• 200g Digestive biscuits (7oz): The foundation of our tray bake, Digestive biscuits provide a wonderful slightly crumbly and subtly sweet base. They hold their shape well and offer a satisfying textural contrast to the chewy Snickers and smooth chocolate. For those outside the UK, Graham crackers are a very close substitute and work just as beautifully. The key is to choose a biscuit that isn’t overly sweet and has a firm texture that will hold up when combined with the melted chocolate mixture.
• 200g Snickers bars, chopped into chunks (7oz): The star of the show! Snickers bars bring that iconic combination of peanuts, caramel, and nougat, all enrobed in milk chocolate. Chopping them into chunks ensures that you get pockets of Snickers goodness throughout the tray bake, delivering bursts of flavor and satisfying chewiness in every slice. Using full-size Snickers bars allows for substantial chunks, providing a more pronounced Snickers experience compared to using mini versions.
• 150g Milk chocolate (5.5oz): Milk chocolate forms the rich and decadent binder for our tray bake. Its creamy sweetness perfectly complements the nutty and caramel notes of the Snickers and the slightly savory digestives. Opt for a good quality milk chocolate for the best flavor and melting properties. Chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage (around 30-40%) will give a richer taste without being too bitter.
• 100g Butter (around 1 tablespoon less than 1 stick): Butter adds richness, moisture, and helps to bind the ingredients together. It also contributes to the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture of the tray bake. Unsalted butter is generally recommended in baking and desserts to control the overall salt level, allowing the sweetness of the other ingredients to shine.
• 3 Tablespoons Golden syrup: Golden syrup is a liquid sweetener with a distinctive buttery and caramel-like flavor. It adds a touch of moisture and helps to create a slightly chewy texture in the base of the tray bake. If you can’t find golden syrup, light corn syrup or even honey (though honey will impart a slightly different flavor) can be used as substitutes, but golden syrup truly enhances the overall taste and texture.
• 2 Tablespoons Cocoa powder: Cocoa powder might seem like an unexpected ingredient in a Snickers tray bake, but it plays a crucial role in deepening the chocolate flavor and balancing the sweetness. Unsweetened cocoa powder adds a touch of bitterness that cuts through the richness of the milk chocolate and golden syrup, creating a more complex and well-rounded flavor profile. It also enhances the visual appeal, giving the base a lovely dark chocolate hue.

Topping:

• 200g Milk or dark chocolate (7oz): For the topping, you have the choice between milk or dark chocolate. Milk chocolate will create an extra layer of creamy sweetness, amplifying the overall indulgence. Dark chocolate, on the other hand, will provide a richer, more intense chocolate flavor and a beautiful contrast to the sweetness of the base. The choice depends on your personal preference and how intensely chocolatey you want the final tray bake to be. For a balanced flavor, a semi-sweet dark chocolate is a great option.
• 70g Snickers bars, chopped into small chunks (two 1.2oz snack-sized bars): More Snickers! These smaller chunks are sprinkled on top of the melted chocolate topping, adding visual appeal, extra Snickers flavor, and a delightful textural contrast. Using snack-sized bars makes it easier to get smaller, more evenly distributed pieces for the topping, ensuring every slice gets a good sprinkle of Snickers goodness.

Instructions

Making this Snickers Tray Bake is as simple as melt, mix, and chill! Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you create the perfect no-bake treat every time.

1. Prepare the Tin: Start by lining an 8×8-inch square baking tin with baking paper. This is a crucial step as it makes it incredibly easy to lift the tray bake out of the tin once it’s set, and it also prevents sticking. Make sure the baking paper overhangs the sides of the tin slightly, acting as handles for easy removal later. Using an 8×8 inch tin will result in thicker, more substantial slices. If you prefer thinner slices, you can use a slightly larger tin, like a 9×9 inch.
2. Crush the Digestives and Chop the Snickers: In a large mixing bowl, place the Digestive biscuits. The best way to crush them is to put them in a ziplock bag and use a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan to bash them into medium-sized chunks. You don’t want a fine powder; some texture is key to the tray bake’s appeal. Aim for pieces that are roughly pea-sized to slightly larger. Next, chop the 200g of Snickers bars into chunks. The size is up to you, but roughly ½ inch to 1-inch pieces work well, ensuring you get noticeable Snickers bites in each slice. Add the chopped Snickers pieces to the bowl with the crushed Digestives and stir them together to evenly distribute the Snickers throughout the base.
3. Melt the Chocolate Mixture: Break the 150g of milk chocolate into smaller pieces and place them in a medium saucepan along with the butter, golden syrup, and cocoa powder. Set the saucepan over very low heat. It’s essential to melt the mixture gently to prevent the chocolate from seizing or burning. Stir constantly with a spatula or wooden spoon as the ingredients melt together. Continue stirring until everything is completely smooth and glossy. The mixture should be liquid and easily pourable. Be patient and keep the heat low; rushing this step can lead to grainy chocolate.
4. Combine and Press: Pour the melted chocolate mixture directly into the bowl with the crushed Digestives and Snickers pieces. Using a large spoon or spatula, mix everything together thoroughly. Make sure that all the biscuit and Snickers pieces are well coated in the chocolate mixture. This is what binds the tray bake together. Once everything is evenly coated, tip the mixture into the prepared lined tin. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the tin. You want to create a compact and level base. Pressing firmly helps to create a denser, more cohesive tray bake that will slice neatly later.
5. Prepare the Topping: Melt the 200g of milk or dark chocolate for the topping. You can melt it in the same saucepan you used earlier (make sure to wipe it clean first) or in a microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Once melted and smooth, pour the chocolate evenly over the pressed biscuit base in the tin. Use a spatula or palette knife to spread it out to the edges, creating a smooth and even chocolate layer.
6. Add the Snickers Topping: While the chocolate topping is still wet, sprinkle the chopped 70g of Snickers pieces evenly over the top. Press them down gently into the melted chocolate so they adhere well. The wet chocolate acts as a glue, ensuring the Snickers pieces stay in place once the tray bake sets.
7. Chill to Set: Now for the most crucial step: refrigeration. Place the entire tray bake in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or preferably longer. This chilling time is essential for the tray bake to firm up completely. The chocolate needs to solidify, and the biscuits need to absorb some of the moisture and flavors. Chilling for longer, even overnight, will result in a firmer and easier-to-slice tray bake.
8. Slice and Serve: Once the tray bake is fully chilled and firm, remove it from the refrigerator. Lift it out of the tin using the overhanging baking paper. Place it on a cutting board. To get clean slices, use a sharp knife and, optionally, run the knife under hot water and wipe it dry between each slice. This helps the chocolate to cut smoothly without cracking. Cut the tray bake into 12 even slices, or adjust the size to your preference. Serve and enjoy! Store any leftover tray bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it firm and fresh.

Nutrition Facts

Knowing the nutritional information can be helpful, especially when you’re considering this treat as part of your overall diet. Please note that these are approximate values and can vary slightly depending on the specific brands of ingredients used.

• Servings: 12 slices
• Calories: 411kcal per slice

These values are per slice and provide a general guide. Keep in mind that this is a decadent treat, and like all desserts, it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time

One of the best things about this Snickers Tray Bake is how quick and easy it is to prepare. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • This includes the time to crush the biscuits, chop the Snickers bars, melt the chocolate mixture, and assemble the tray bake. It’s a very hands-on and fast process.
• Chill Time: 2 hours
  • This is the time required for the tray bake to set in the refrigerator. While it’s mostly hands-off time, it’s essential for the final texture and sliceability.
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • From start to finish, including chilling, you can have this delicious Snickers Tray Bake ready in just over two hours. Perfect for making ahead for parties or when you need a quick dessert fix.

How to Serve

This Snickers Tray Bake is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to suit different occasions and preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Classic Slices: Simply cut the tray bake into squares or bars and serve them as they are. They are perfect for afternoon tea, coffee breaks, or as a sweet ending to a meal.
• With Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent dessert, serve a slice of Snickers Tray Bake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or caramel ice cream. The cold ice cream complements the rich chocolate and chewy texture beautifully.
• Alongside Whipped Cream or Custard: A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a spoonful of creamy custard adds a touch of lightness and creaminess, balancing the richness of the tray bake.
• Drizzled with Caramel Sauce: Enhance the caramel notes by drizzling warm caramel sauce over the slices just before serving. This adds extra flavor and a beautiful visual appeal.
• With Hot Drinks: Pair a slice of Snickers Tray Bake with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. The warmth of the drink complements the cold, rich dessert perfectly.
• For Parties and Gatherings: This tray bake is ideal for parties, potlucks, and gatherings. It’s easy to transport, can be made ahead of time, and is always a crowd-pleaser. Cut it into smaller squares or bars for easy handling at events.
• Picnics and Lunchboxes: Cut into bars, these tray bakes are robust enough to travel well, making them a great addition to picnics or as a special treat in lunchboxes (though be mindful of melting in very hot weather).

Additional Tips for Tray Bake Perfection

To ensure your Snickers Tray Bake is a resounding success, here are five additional tips to keep in mind:

1. Don’t Overheat the Chocolate: When melting the chocolate mixture and the topping chocolate, use low heat and stir frequently. Overheating can cause the chocolate to seize or burn, resulting in a grainy texture and bitter taste. Patience is key. If using a microwave, melt in short intervals (30 seconds) and stir well between each interval.
2. Use Good Quality Chocolate: The quality of your chocolate will significantly impact the final flavor of the tray bake. Opt for good quality milk chocolate and dark chocolate (if using) for the best results. Chocolate with a higher cocoa content will offer a richer, more intense flavor.
3. Chill Thoroughly: Resist the temptation to cut into the tray bake too soon. Allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or even longer if possible. Proper chilling is crucial for the tray bake to set firmly, making it easier to slice and ensuring the textures are just right.
4. Variations and Additions: Feel free to customize your Snickers Tray Bake! Consider adding a layer of peanut butter to the base for extra nutty flavor. You could also incorporate other nuts like chopped peanuts, almonds, or hazelnuts into the base mixture or as part of the topping. For a different flavor profile, try using white chocolate for the topping and drizzling with caramel sauce.
5. Cutting Tips for Clean Slices: To get neat, clean slices, use a sharp, non-serrated knife. For extra smooth cuts, warm the knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and then slice. Repeat this process between each slice. This helps to prevent the chocolate from cracking and ensures clean edges.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions you might have about making this Snickers Tray Bake:

Q1: Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for the base and topping?

A: Yes, absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet and more intense chocolate flavor, you can definitely use dark chocolate for both the base mixture and the topping. Dark chocolate will provide a richer and slightly more bitter flavor profile that some may prefer. For the base, it will balance the sweetness of the golden syrup and Snickers. For the topping, it will create a lovely contrast to the sweet base and Snickers chunks. You can even do a combination – milk chocolate for the base and dark chocolate for the topping, or vice versa, to find your perfect balance.

Q2: Can I use different types of biscuits instead of Digestive biscuits?

A: Yes, you can substitute Digestive biscuits with other similar biscuits. Graham crackers are an excellent alternative, especially in the US. Rich tea biscuits, Hobnobs (for a slightly oaty texture), or even shortbread biscuits (for a buttery base) could also work. The key is to choose a biscuit that is relatively firm, not overly sweet, and will hold its shape when crushed and mixed with the melted chocolate. Avoid very crumbly or very sweet biscuits, as they might not provide the best texture or flavor balance.

Q3: Can I freeze Snickers Tray Bake?

A: Yes, Snickers Tray Bake freezes very well. Once it’s fully set and sliced, you can wrap individual slices or the entire tray bake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place them in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Freezing is a great way to make it ahead of time for parties or to have a treat on hand whenever you crave it.

Q4: How long does Snickers Tray Bake last and how should I store it?

A: Snickers Tray Bake will last for up to 5-7 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from the fridge. Because it’s a no-bake treat, it’s best stored cold to maintain its firm texture and prevent the chocolate from softening too much, especially in warmer climates.

Q5: Can I make this tray bake without golden syrup?

A: While golden syrup contributes to the unique flavor and slightly chewy texture of the tray bake, you can substitute it if needed. Light corn syrup is the closest substitute in terms of texture and sweetness. Honey can also be used, but it will impart a slightly different flavor profile. Maple syrup could be another option, but it will also add a distinct maple flavor. If you’re using honey or maple syrup, start with a slightly lesser amount (perhaps 2 tablespoons) and adjust to taste, as they can be sweeter than golden syrup. Golden syrup is recommended for the most authentic flavor and texture, but substitutions are possible if necessary.

This Snickers Tray Bake is truly a delightful treat that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a simple family dessert, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy creating and indulging in this irresistible chocolatey, Snickers-filled delight!

Print