If you’re craving a dessert that’s quick, creamy, and full of texture, this Butterscotch Apple Salad is just the treat!
With crisp apples, marshmallows, peanuts, and a luscious butterscotch base, it’s a nostalgic favorite that feels both playful and comforting.
I love bringing this to potlucks or serving it as a sweet surprise after dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfectly sweet and tangy – Butterscotch and pineapple pair beautifully with tart Granny Smith apples.
Quick and no-bake – Just mix and chill. Great for last-minute gatherings.
Crunch meets cream – Every spoonful is a satisfying combo of soft and crunchy textures.
Family-friendly – A kid-approved treat that adults secretly adore too!
Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
Ingredient Highlights
Instant butterscotch pudding – The base of that creamy, nostalgic flavor.
Pineapple tidbits with juice – Adds brightness and helps activate the pudding.
Granny Smith apples – Crisp and tart for perfect contrast.
Mini marshmallows – For that fluffy, pillowy texture.
Roasted peanuts – Salty crunch that balances the sweetness.
Whipped topping – Makes everything cloud-like and smooth.
Tips Before You Start
Don’t drain the pineapple — the juice is key to dissolving the pudding mix.
Use chilled ingredients for best texture and flavor.
Chop apples just before mixing to avoid browning.
Fold gently when adding whipped topping to keep the salad airy.
For more crunch, top with extra peanuts just before serving.
How to Make Butterscotch Apple Salad
Step 1: Mix the Pudding Base
In a large mixing bowl, stir the butterscotch pudding mix with the entire can of pineapple tidbits (including juice) until smooth and fully dissolved.
Step 2: Add the Good Stuff
Gently fold in chopped apples, marshmallows, and peanuts until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Fold in the Cream
Add the thawed whipped topping and mix until the salad is well combined and creamy.
Step 4: Chill
Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon into bowls and top with more whipped topping and chopped peanuts, if desired.
It’s especially good served cold.
What to Serve It With
As a sweet side dish at potlucks or BBQs
Alongside roasted ham or grilled chicken for a sweet-savory contrast
With holiday spreads as a playful, creamy break from rich dishes
On its own for a quick, no-bake dessert
Variations & Swaps
Use crushed pineapple instead of tidbits for smoother texture.
Add grapes or chopped pears for extra fruitiness.
Swap peanuts for chopped pecans or walnuts if you prefer.
Make it fluffier by using mini fruit-flavored marshmallows.
Use vanilla pudding if you don’t love butterscotch (though you’ll miss the signature flavor).
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze – the texture won’t hold up well.
Stir before serving again – some liquid may separate but will blend back in.
Best enjoyed cold – keep it chilled until serving time.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It’s even better when chilled for a few hours or overnight.
Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Definitely — just whip it stiff and sweeten it slightly with sugar.
Is this more of a dessert or a side dish?
It walks the line! It’s sweet enough for dessert but often served as a creamy side at gatherings.
What apples work best for this?
Granny Smith adds the best tart crunch, but Honeycrisp or Pink Lady also work well.
Can I skip the peanuts?
Yes. It’s still delicious without them, or you can sub with seeds or other nuts.
Is there a way to make it less sweet?
You can reduce the marshmallows or use unsweetened whipped cream.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. It’s a great dish to scale up for a crowd.
Final Thoughts
Butterscotch Apple Salad brings back all the retro charm of potluck favorites while still tasting fresh and fun.
I love how it balances tangy fruit, creamy pudding, and crunchy mix-ins in every spoonful.
Whether you serve it chilled in summer or as a sweet finish to a hearty meal, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
