Caramel Apple Bark

This salty and sweet treat is perfect for a fall party. It's fun take on classic caramel apples but even easier to eat!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup caramel bits (see note)

• 2-4 Tbsp heavy cream

• 2 cups dark chocolate chips

• 3 cup pretzels (about 75)

• 1 green apple, diced

  
  

Directions:

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, add the caramel bits and 2 Tbsp heavy whipping cream. Microwave for 30 seconds and stir. Repeat in 15 second bursts until the caramel is melted but not bubbling or burnt. Stir in the additional 2 Tbsp as needed. Set aside to cool.

2. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30 second intervals until smooth.

3. Line a cookie sheet with wax paper. You want to spread out the chocolate so that there aren't any thick clumps (about 8x12 inch rectangle).

4. Lay out the pretzels in even rows and press gently into the chocolate.

5. Dice the apple and use a paper towel to lightly dab extra moisture. Spread across the bark.

6. Drizzle the caramel over the bark.

7. Chill in the refrigerator for about an hour until the caramel thickens and the chocolate hardens. Cut into even squares or gently break with your hands.

8. The bark tastes best fresh but it will last for a couple of days in the fridge. The apples will start to dry out but it's still delicious!

Notes:

• Caramel: There are lots of options for the caramel! I like the Kraft Caramel Bits or individually wrapped soft caramels like Werthers. If using a caramel sauce, there is no need to thin it out with heavy whipping cream. I also have a homemade caramel sauce recipe at the bottom of this post.

• The bark tastes best fresh but it will last for a couple of days. The apples will start to dry out but it's still delicious!

• I've tried this with individually wrapped soft caramels instead of making a sauce, but they got very hard and stuck in your teeth when refrigerated. You could also try it with a store bought caramel sauce, but you don't want it very runny.

Love this recipe? Let me know by leaving a comment or messaging me on Instagram! I'd love to hear what you think.

Homemade Caramel Sauce:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 2 Tbsp water

• 3 Tbsp butter, cut into pieces

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 tsp vanilla

• a pinch of salt

1. In a small saucepan, stir together the water and sugar over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and it starts to bubble (about 3-4 minutes).

2. Do not stir anymore and let the mixture bubble until the mixture thickens and turns into a deep amber color (about the color of honey). This will take 8-12 minutes but keep an eye on it because it can get too dark very quickly.

3. Remove from heat and whisk in the butter one piece at a time. The mixture will foam up but that's normal!

4. Whisk in the heavy cream, vanilla, and salt and let it cool for 10-15 minutes,