Caramel Apple Bark Recipe

Introduction

Caramel Apple Bark is a delightful treat that combines smooth chocolate, sweet caramel, and crisp green apples with a crunchy twist of pretzels or nuts. This easy-to-make bark is perfect for fall snacking or gifting during the holidays.

Ingredients

• 12 oz milk or dark chocolate
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 cup soft baking caramels (melted)
• 1 medium green apple (chopped or thinly sliced)
• 1 cup chopped gluten-free pretzels or nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
• 1/4 cup melted chocolate for drizzle

Instructions

1. Step 1: Soak the apple pieces in 1 cup of water mixed with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice for 5 to 10 minutes to prevent browning. Drain and pat dry.
2. Step 2: Melt the chopped chocolate and coconut oil using a double boiler or microwave. If microwaving, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to avoid burning, until smooth.
3. Step 3: Line a 9×13-inch sheet pan with parchment paper. Pour the melted chocolate onto the paper and spread evenly with a spatula to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the chopped pretzels or nuts evenly over the chocolate, then arrange the drained apple pieces on top. Drizzle melted caramel and the reserved melted chocolate over the apples.
5. Step 5: Refrigerate the sheet pan for 1 to 2 hours until the chocolate is fully set. For a firmer bark, place it in the freezer for the last 20 minutes.
6. Step 6: Once hardened, break the bark into bite-sized pieces with your hands, or use a knife for even squares if preferred.
7. Step 7: Serve immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy within 24 hours for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

• Use tart green apples like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness in the bark.
• Substitute pretzels with your favorite nuts for a different texture and flavor profile.
• For a dairy-free option, use vegan chocolate and caramel alternatives.
• Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel drizzle for a salted caramel twist.

Storage

Store the caramel apple bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to keep the chocolate firm and prevent melting. When ready to enjoy, remove from the fridge and let sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes, you can use either milk, dark, or even white chocolate depending on your preference. Just adjust the sweetness accordingly.

How do I prevent the apples from making the bark soggy?

Soaking the apple pieces in lemon water and patting them dry before adding helps reduce excess moisture. Also, adding them just before the chocolate sets ensures they retain their crispness.

Caramel Apple Bark Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 130 reviews

Indulge in this delightful Caramel Apple Bark featuring a smooth layer of milk or dark chocolate, topped with juicy green apples, crunchy gluten-free pretzels or nuts, and drizzled with luscious caramel and extra chocolate. Perfect as a sweet treat or festive snack, it’s easy to prepare and sets quickly in the refrigerator.

• Author: Stella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
• Yield: 20 pieces 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chocolate Base

• 12 oz milk or dark chocolate
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Toppings

• 1 medium green apple, chopped or thinly sliced
• 1 cup chopped gluten-free pretzels or nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
• 1 cup soft baking caramels (melted)
• 1/4 cup melted chocolate for drizzle

Apple Soaking Solution

• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Instructions

1. Soak The Apples Pieces: Place the chopped or sliced apple pieces in a bowl of 1 cup water mixed with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Let them soak for 5 to 10 minutes to prevent browning while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Melt Chocolate: Using a double boiler or microwave, melt the 12 oz of chocolate along with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil until smooth and creamy. If microwaving, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each to avoid burning.
3. Spread the Chocolate: Line a 9×13 inch sheet pan with parchment paper. Pour the melted chocolate onto the paper and use a spatula to spread it evenly into a 1/4 inch thick layer.
4. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the chopped gluten-free pretzels or nuts evenly over the melted chocolate. Drain the soaked apples and arrange them on top. Drizzle the melted baking caramels and the additional 1/4 cup melted chocolate over the apples for a beautiful finish.
5. Allow to Set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours or until the chocolate is firm. For a quicker setting, transfer to the freezer for the last 20 minutes.
6. Break or Cut The Bark: Once solid, break the bark into rustic, bite-sized pieces by hand or cut into uniform squares using a knife.
7. Serving and Storing: Serve immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the chocolate solid. Consume within 24 hours for best freshness and taste.

Notes

• Soaking the apples in lemon water helps prevent browning and keeps them fresh-looking.
• Use gluten-free pretzels or nuts to keep this recipe gluten-free.
• Milk or dark chocolate can be used based on your preference.
• Ensure the chocolate is fully set before breaking to avoid melting or crumbling.
• Store the bark in the refrigerator to maintain texture and freshness.
• For a richer caramel flavor, use soft baking caramels designed for melting.

Keywords: caramel apple bark, chocolate bark, gluten-free dessert, caramel chocolate bark, apple chocolate bark, easy no bake dessert