Snickers-Inspired Cake with Crunchy Meringue & Caramel Layers

Get ready to indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Snickers-inspired cake elevated with high-quality ingredients that bring each layer to life. From the moist dark cocoa sponge to the crispy meringue crunch and the lush cream cheese frosting, every bite is a symphony of textures and flavors. The caramel and roasted peanuts add that perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness, making this not just a cake but a celebration on a plate. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this decadent masterpiece promises to dazzle your taste buds and your guests alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are deceptively simple but essential in creating the complex layers and irresistible flavors in this cake. Each element contributes its own unique texture, taste, or color, coming together to form a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

• 6 eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cocoa sponge.
• 200g sugar: Sweetens the sponge and meringue perfectly without overpowering.
• 50ml sunflower oil: Keeps the sponge moist and tender.
• 140g milk: Adds moisture and helps bind ingredients in the sponge.
• 140g flour: The base of the sponge for that soft crumb.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Gives the sponge a gentle rise for fluffiness.
• 60g dark cocoa powder: Infuses deep chocolate flavor and a rich color.
• 4 egg whites: Key to creating the light, crispy meringue.
• 200g sugar (for meringue): Ensures a glossy texture and sturdy peaks.
• 0.5 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 0.3 tsp citric acid: Stabilizes meringue to maintain its perfect crispness.
• Vanilla to taste: Adds warmth and depth to the meringue.
• 200g cream cheese: Creates a tangy, smooth base for the frosting.
• 60g powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese without graininess.
• 400ml heavy cream (33% fat): Whipped to lightness for the luscious cream texture.
• Caramel: The essential sweet and sticky element that ties everything together (see recipe on my page).
• 120g roasted peanuts: Add the signature crunch and nutty goodness.
• Soaking syrup: Made with 150ml water, 2 tbsp condensed milk, and 1 tbsp cognac to keep the sponge moist and flavorful.

How to Make Snickers-Inspired Cake with Crunchy Meringue & Caramel Layers

Step 1: Creating the Sponge Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F). Whip the eggs with sugar until fluffy and full of air, then slow down the mixer speed as you gently incorporate the sunflower oil. Sifting together the flour, baking powder, and dark cocoa powder is crucial to avoid lumps and ensure even distribution of the ingredients. Gradually fold the dry mix into the egg mixture for a smooth, velvety batter. Pour this into an 18-20 cm round cake mold and bake for 35-40 minutes until a skewer comes out clean. Once baked, cool the cake completely and crumble it gently for assembling later.

Step 2: Mastering the Meringue Crunch

Whip the egg whites with salt, citric acid, and vanilla until soft peaks form. This stage is where patience pays off—slowly add sugar while continuing to whisk until the peaks become stiff and glossy. Spread the meringue evenly on parchment paper and bake at a low temperature of 90°C (194°F) for 1 hour and 40 minutes, then turn off the oven to let it cool slowly inside. This technique ensures a dry, crisp meringue that’s elevated with high-quality texture perfect for adding contrast in your cake layers.

Step 3: Whipping Up the Cream Cheese Frosting

Start by blending the cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and well combined. Then, gradually add heavy cream while whipping, aiming for a firm yet creamy consistency. This frosting adds a tangy richness that balances the caramel’s sweetness and the meringue’s crunch, truly making the cake elevated with high-quality flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Assembling the Layers

This is where your patience and precision shine. Begin with a layer of cocoa sponge, soaked lightly with the syrup mixture to keep it moist and flavorful. Spread a generous amount of cream, then sprinkle pieces of the crispy meringue—if you like, coat these with melted chocolate to prevent sogginess. Add a drizzle of caramel and scatter roasted peanuts before repeating the layers. Use a little cream on the sides to hold the structure together. Wrap the assembled cake in acetate film and refrigerate overnight to let all flavors marry beautifully for that truly elevated with high-quality dessert experience.

How to Serve Snickers-Inspired Cake with Crunchy Meringue & Caramel Layers

Garnishes

The finishing touches really make a difference here. A drizzle of smooth caramel on top combined with a generous sprinkle of chopped roasted peanuts brings additional visual appeal and texture. For a touch of elegance, consider adding chocolate shavings or even edible gold leaf. Coating the sides with melted chocolate not only ties the look together but also maintains the integrity of your meringue layer, making this cake feel elevated with high-quality presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

Serve this rich cake alongside lighter accompaniments like fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the decadence. A simple cup of espresso or dark roast coffee pairs beautifully, cutting through the sweetness and accentuating the chocolate notes. These thoughtful side touches ensure your elevated with high-quality creation remains the star while rounding out the overall experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices with an extra drizzle of salted caramel and a few whole roasted peanuts artfully scattered on the plate. For parties, assemble mini versions in clear glasses layering cream, crumbled sponge, caramel, and peanut bits for a playful twist. Presentation is your chance to amplify this elevated with high-quality dessert, making it memorable not only for its flavors but for its stunning visual allure.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After savoring a slice, wrap the remaining cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake holds up beautifully for up to three days, allowing the flavors to develop even further while keeping the textures intact and the layers elevated with high-quality freshness.

Freezing

This cake freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Wrap tightly in several layers of plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag or container. For best results, consume within one month. Make sure to thaw the cake slowly in the refrigerator overnight to preserve that signature moistness and maintain that elevated with high-quality mouthfeel you worked so hard to achieve.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled dessert, reheating is generally unnecessary and not recommended as it will affect the texture. Instead, simply bring the cake to room temperature before serving to unlock the full range of flavors and let that elevated with high-quality richness shine through.

FAQs

Can I substitute the roasted peanuts with another nut?

Absolutely! While roasted peanuts give the cake its classic Snickers-inspired identity, chopped roasted almonds or hazelnuts provide a tasty alternative. Just make sure they are toasted well to retain that elevated with high-quality crunch and flavor.

Is there a non-alcoholic option for the soaking syrup?

Yes, you can omit the cognac and replace it with an equal amount of water or a splash of vanilla extract to keep the syrup flavorful without the alcohol. This still keeps the sponge moist and elevated with high-quality taste.

Can I make the caramel from scratch?

Definitely! Homemade caramel adds an extra layer of depth and freshness. Using high-quality sugar and butter can elevate the caramel to match the rest of the cake perfectly, enhancing the overall elevated with high-quality experience.

How long before serving should I assemble the cake?

For the best texture and flavor marriage, assemble the cake at least one day before serving and refrigerate overnight. This resting time allows all layers to meld beautifully and the cake to be truly elevated with high-quality taste.

Can I use other types of chocolate for coating the meringue?

Certainly! Dark chocolate offers a rich contrast, while milk chocolate adds sweetness. White chocolate lends a creamy touch. Whichever you choose, using high-quality chocolate will maintain that elevated with high-quality standard your cake deserves.

Final Thoughts

This Snickers-inspired cake elevated with high-quality ingredients and layers is a true delight for anyone who appreciates the marriage of classic flavors with gourmet craftsmanship. I can’t wait for you to try making it and watch how it becomes the star of your dessert table, impressing friends and family with every luscious bite. Happy baking and joyful indulgence!

Print