Description
Delight in the perfect blend of creamy chocolate, soft caramel, tart green apples, and crunchy gluten-free pretzels or nuts with this easy-to-make Caramel Apple Bark. A no-bake treat that combines sweet and salty flavors with a satisfying crunch, perfect for an indulgent snack or a festive dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Chocolate Base
- 12 oz milk or dark chocolate
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Caramel
- 1 cup soft baking caramels, melted
Fruit
- 1 medium green apple, chopped or thinly sliced
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Toppings
- 1 cup chopped gluten-free pretzels or nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
- 1/4 cup melted chocolate for drizzle
Instructions
- Soak The Apples Pieces: Place the chopped or sliced apple pieces in a bowl containing 1 cup of water mixed with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Allow them to soak for 5-10 minutes to prevent browning and keep the apples crisp and fresh.
- Melt Chocolate: Using a double boiler or microwave, melt the 12 ounces of milk or dark chocolate together with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil until smooth and creamy. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly 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 use a spatula to spread it into an even layer approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the chopped gluten-free pretzels or nuts evenly over the melted chocolate. Drain and place the soaked apple pieces on top of the pretzels. Drizzle the apples with the melted caramel and then the 1/4 cup of melted chocolate for an extra decorative touch.
- Allow to Set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours until the chocolate is fully set and firm. For quicker setting, you can also add it to the freezer for the last 20 minutes.
- Break or Cut The Bark: Once hardened, remove from the fridge and break the bark into rustic, bite-sized pieces using your hands. Alternatively, use a knife to cut it into uniform squares if preferred.
- Serving and Storing: Serve the bark immediately or store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent melting. For best flavor and texture, consume within 24 hours.
Notes
- Soaking apples in lemon water prevents discoloration and browning.
- Use gluten-free pretzels or nuts to keep the recipe gluten-free.
- Adjust the type of chocolate to your preference: milk chocolate for sweeter bark or dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- You can substitute coconut oil with butter if desired, but coconut oil helps with a smoother melt and sheen.
- Melt chocolate gently to avoid seizing or burning.
- Store in the refrigerator to maintain texture and prevent melting, especially in warmer climates.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 30g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
