Caramel Apple Bark Recipe
Caramel Apple Bark is a delightful, crunchy and sweet treat combining smooth milk or dark chocolate with soft caramel, crisp green apples, and crunchy gluten-free pretzels or nuts. Perfect for festive occasions or as a unique snack, this easy-to-make bark balances fruity tartness with rich caramel and chocolate flavors.
- Author: rami
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Melting and chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Chocolate Base
- 12 oz milk or dark chocolate
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Caramel
- 1 cup soft baking caramels (melted)
Fruits
- 1 medium green apple (chopped or thinly sliced)
Toppings
- 1 cup chopped gluten-free pretzels or nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
- 1/4 cup melted chocolate for drizzle
Additional
- 1 cup water (for soaking apple pieces)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for soaking apple pieces)
- Soak The Apples Pieces: Place the chopped or sliced apple pieces in a bowl with 1 cup of water and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Let them soak for 5-10 minutes to prevent browning and keep them fresh looking throughout the preparation.
- Melt Chocolate: Using a double boiler or microwave, gently melt the 12 oz of chocolate along with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil until smooth and creamy. If using microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each to avoid burning.
- Spread the Chocolate: Line a 9×13 inch sheet pan with parchment paper. Pour the melted chocolate onto the parchment and spread evenly with a spatula to create about a 1/4 inch thick layer.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the chopped gluten-free pretzels or nuts evenly over the melted chocolate. Drain the apple pieces from soaking water, then arrange them on top. Drizzle the 1 cup of melted soft caramels and the 1/4 cup of melted chocolate over the apples and pretzels for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Allow to Set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours until the chocolate is fully set and firm. For a faster result, place in the freezer for the last 20 minutes.
- Break or Cut The Bark: Once hardened, break the bark into rustic bite-sized pieces using your hands, or use a knife to cut into neat squares if preferred.
- Serving and Storing: Serve immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent melting. Best consumed within 24 hours for optimal freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Soaking apples in lemon water prevents browning and keeps the bark visually appealing.
- Use gluten-free pretzels or nuts to keep this recipe gluten-free.
- You can substitute nuts for pretzels based on preference or allergy considerations.
- Adjust caramel drizzle amount based on your sweetness preference.
- Storing in the refrigerator keeps the bark firm and extends freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 1 oz)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
Keywords: Caramel apple bark, gluten-free dessert, chocolate bark, caramel dessert, holiday treats, apple recipes