Caramel Apple Bark Recipe
This Caramel Apple Bark is a delightful and festive treat featuring a smooth layer of melted chocolate studded with crisp green apple pieces, crunchy gluten-free pretzels or nuts, and drizzled with luscious caramel and extra chocolate. Perfect for fall or holiday snacking, this easy-to-make bark combines sweet, tart, and salty flavors with a satisfying crunch.
- Author: lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: About 24 pieces 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Chocolate Base
- 12 oz milk or dark chocolate, chopped
- 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)
Caramel Drizzle
- 1 cup soft baking caramels, melted
Additional Drizzle
- 1/4 cup melted chocolate (reserve from the 12 oz or melt separately)
Apple Soaking Solution
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 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 to 10 minutes to prevent browning and keep them fresh and vibrant in the final bark.
- Melt Chocolate: Using a double boiler or microwave, gently melt the 12 oz of chopped chocolate together with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. If microwaving, heat in 30-second intervals and stir well between each to avoid burning, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Spread the Chocolate: Line a 9×13 inch baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour the melted chocolate onto the parchment and use a spatula to spread an even layer about 1/4 inch thick.
- Add Toppings: Evenly sprinkle the chopped pretzels or nuts over the melted chocolate layer, then add the soaked and drained apple pieces on top. Drizzle the 1 cup of melted caramel generously over the apples, followed by drizzling the reserved 1/4 cup melted chocolate for an attractive finishing touch.
- Allow to Set: Refrigerate the baking sheet for 1 to 2 hours, or until the chocolate is fully set and firm. For a quicker set and firmer bark, place it in the freezer for the last 20 minutes of chilling.
- Break or Cut the Bark: Once firm, remove the bark from the pan by lifting the parchment paper. Break it with your hands into rustic, bite-sized pieces or use a sharp knife to cut into neat squares if preferred.
- Serve and Store: Serve immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent melting. For best flavor and texture, consume within 24 hours.
Notes
- Soaking apple pieces in lemon water prevents browning and keeps them visually appealing.
- Using coconut oil helps the chocolate melt more smoothly and sets with a nice sheen.
- Substitute gluten-free pretzels with your favorite nuts if preferred, maintaining the crunch and flavor contrast.
- You can use either milk or dark chocolate based on your taste preference.
- Store in the refrigerator especially in warm climates to avoid melting.
- This recipe is great for holiday gifts or party snacks and can be customized with different toppings like dried cranberries or sea salt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (about 1.5 oz)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: caramel apple bark, gluten-free chocolate bark, fall dessert, easy holiday treats, apple chocolate bark, no bake chocolate dessert