Caramel Apple Bark Recipe
Delicious and crunchy Caramel Apple Bark combines smooth melted chocolate with sweet caramel, crisp green apples, and crunchy gluten-free pretzels or nuts. This no-bake treat is perfect for a quick dessert or snack, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
- Author: Ava
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Chocolate Base
- 12 oz milk or dark chocolate
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Toppings
- 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
Preparation
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Soak The Apple Pieces: Place the chopped or sliced green apple pieces in 1 cup of water mixed with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Let them soak for 5 to 10 minutes to prevent browning and keep the fruit fresh-looking in the final bark.
- Melt Chocolate: Using a double boiler or microwave, melt the 12 oz of chopped milk or dark chocolate together with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil until smooth and creamy. If microwaving, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each to avoid burning.
- Spread the Chocolate: Line a 9×13 inch sheet pan with parchment paper. Pour the melted chocolate onto the paper and spread it evenly with a spatula to about 1/4 inch thickness, creating the base layer for the bark.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the chopped gluten-free pretzels or nuts evenly over the chocolate layer. Next, distribute the drained apple pieces on top of the pretzels. Drizzle both the melted caramel and the 1/4 cup melted chocolate over the apples for a decorative and flavorful touch.
- Allow to Set: Place the sheet pan in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours until the chocolate is completely firm. For firmer bark, you may also put it 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 cut into uniform squares with a knife if preferred.
- Serving and Storing: 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 the apple pieces with lemon juice helps maintain their color and crispness.
- You can customize the nuts or pretzels according to preference, ensuring they are gluten-free if needed.
- Use high-quality chocolate for best melting and flavor results.
- Storing in the refrigerator is essential to keep the bark firm and fresh.
- This bark is best eaten within a day to enjoy optimal texture and taste.
Keywords: Caramel Apple Bark, chocolate bark, gluten-free dessert, caramel dessert, no-bake treat