This Caramel Apple Bark is like fall on a plate! It’s sweet, crunchy, and full of tasty apple pieces and creamy caramel, all sprinkled on smooth chocolate. Yum!
Making it is a breeze! Just melt, mix, and let it chill. I love having a piece with my coffee—it’s the perfect sweet treat to brighten my day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chocolate: I recommend using semisweet or dark chocolate for a rich flavor. If you prefer, milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter touch, or even white chocolate if you’re in the mood. Just know it changes the flavor profile a bit!
Apples: Mixing green apples like Granny Smith with red apples like Fuji gives a nice balance of tart and sweet. If apples aren’t your thing, try pears instead for a different flavor.
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch, but you can swap them for almonds or leave them out for a nut-free version. Sunflower seeds are also a great alternative if you’re looking for something different!
Caramel Sauce: Store-bought caramel works well here for convenience. If you want to make it from scratch, just melt sugar until it turns golden, then mix in cream. It’s a fun process!
Sea Salt: Flaky sea salt really elevates the flavor, but if you don’t have any, regular salt works too. Just be careful to use less, as it’s stronger.
How Do You Melt Chocolate Perfectly Without Clumping?
Melted chocolate can be tricky, but with the right technique, it’s easy! The key is to melt it gently to avoid clumps and burning. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second bursts at medium power.
- Stir after each interval until almost melted, then let it sit for a minute to finish melting with the residual heat.
- If using the stovetop, set a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler). Make sure the water doesn’t touch the bowl, and stir often.
These methods keep your chocolate smooth and ready to spread! Remember, patience is key.
How to Make Caramel Apple Bark
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bark:
- 12 ounces semisweet or dark chocolate, chopped or chocolate chips
- 1 large apple, diced (mix of green and red apples for color and flavor)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
Time Needed:
This scrumptious caramel apple bark takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to chill. In just about 40 minutes, you’ll have a delightful treat ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Sheet:
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will help the bark easily lift off once it’s set.
2. Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until it’s smooth and fully melted. If you prefer, you can melt the chocolate over a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over simmering water on the stove. Just make sure the water doesn’t touch the bowl!
3. Spread the Chocolate:
Once the chocolate is melted, pour it onto the prepared baking sheet. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it into an even layer about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Add the Toppings:
While the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle the diced apples and chopped nuts evenly over the top. This ensures they will stick to the chocolate as it cools.
5. Drizzle with Caramel:
Next, drizzle the caramel sauce over the chocolate in a zigzag pattern. The more caramel, the gooier the bark will be!
6. Add Sea Salt:
Give a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt over everything. This little touch enhances the flavors with a sweet and salty contrast.
7. Chill the Bark:
Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and let it chill for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm and set.
8. Break and Serve:
Once the bark is set, break it into irregular pieces. Serve it up and watch it disappear!
9. Storing Leftovers:
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They make great snacks or sweet gifts!
Enjoy this delicious, crunchy, sweet, and salty treat that celebrates the flavors of apple and caramel combined with rich chocolate and nuts!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! A mix of tart green apples like Granny Smith and sweet red apples like Fuji creates a great balance of flavors. You can also use any variety you prefer, such as Honeycrisp or Gala!
What If I Don’t Have Caramel Sauce?
No problem! You can make your own caramel by melting sugar until it turns golden, then adding a splash of cream and butter. Just be careful while making it, as hot sugar can be quite hot!
Can I Make This Recipe Nut-Free?
Yes! Simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added crunch without allergens.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover caramel apple bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can enjoy it cold or let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture!