This Peanut Butter Apple Salad is one of those simple recipes that shows up at potlucks, family dinners, and holiday spreads. It disappears fast. It’s sweet, salty, crunchy, and creamy all in one bowl, with just a handful of ingredients and minutes of prep.
Creamy peanut butter, crisp apples, and crunchy pretzels come together in this easy no-bake salad.
Whether you serve it as a side dish, a light dessert, or a snack for the kids, this old-fashioned apple salad is proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most loved.
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Apple Salad
- Quick and easy—no baking required
- Sweet and salty flavor everyone enjoys
- Perfect for potlucks, picnics, and holidays
- Budget-friendly with pantry staples
- A great way to use fresh apples
Peanut Butter Apple Salad (Sweet & Salty Classic)
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Equipment
Ingredients
- ¼ Cup Peanut Butter creamy works best
- 2 Large Apples peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 Cup Pretzels crushed, sticks or twists both work
- 1 ½ Cups Whipped Topping thawed
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, stir the peanut butter and whipped topping until fully combined and creamy.¼ Cup Peanut Butter, 1 ½ Cups Whipped Topping
- Add the sliced apples and crushed pretzels. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.2 Large Apples, 1 Cup Pretzels
- Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving. That’s it—mix and enjoy!
Notes
Tips for the Best Results
- Use crisp apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best texture.
- Slice apples thin so they blend well with the creamy dressing.
- Crush pretzels just before mixing to keep them from getting too soft.
- If making ahead, wait to add pretzels until right before serving.
Nutrition
Easy Recipe Variations
- Add mini marshmallows for a fluffier, dessert-style salad
- Use crunchy peanut butter for extra texture
- Drizzle with honey for added sweetness
- Swap whipped topping for homemade whipped cream
- Try chocolate chips or chopped peanuts for a fun twist
How to Prevent Apples from Browning
Fresh apples are the star of this peanut butter apple salad, and keeping them bright and crisp makes all the difference. Once apples are sliced, exposure to air can cause them to brown quickly—but there are several easy ways to prevent that.
• Lemon Juice (Most Popular Method)
Lightly toss the sliced apples with 1–2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice. The natural acidity slows oxidation without overpowering the flavor, especially once mixed with peanut butter and whipped topping.
• Rinse with Cold Water & Pat Dry
If you prefer not to add any extra flavor, briefly rinsing sliced apples in cold water can slow browning. Be sure to pat them completely dry with a clean towel before adding them to the salad so it doesn’t become watery.
• Salt Water Soak (Surprisingly Effective)
Dissolve ½ teaspoon salt in 1 cup of cold water and soak apple slices for 3–5 minutes. Rinse and pat dry well. This method prevents browning without leaving a salty taste.
• Honey Water (Old-Fashioned Trick)
Stir 1 tablespoon of honey into 1 cup of water and toss the apples in the mixture. Honey contains natural compounds that help slow oxidation—this is a gentle, traditional method many home cooks swear by.
• Vitamin C or Fruit Juice
Crushed vitamin C tablets mixed with water or a splash of pineapple or orange juice can also help prevent browning while adding a hint of natural sweetness.
No matter which method you choose, once the apples are coated in the creamy peanut butter mixture, they’ll stay fresh-looking and delicious until serving time.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Apples may soften over time, and pretzels will lose crunch, so this salad is best enjoyed fresh.
- If making ahead, mix everything except the pretzels and fold them in just before serving.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes—just wait to add the pretzels until right before serving for the best crunch.
Is this a dessert or a side dish?
Both! It works beautifully as a sweet side salad or a light dessert.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
You can, but stir it well first. Natural peanut butter tends to separate and can be thicker.
A Sweet & Simple Classic
This Peanut Butter Apple Salad is one of those nostalgic recipes that reminds us why family favorites stick around for generations. Simple ingredients, quick prep, and a flavor combination that just works.
I made this with my grandson and he loved it.