Caramel Apple Bark gives you all the caramel apple flavor without the work! It’s crunchy, chewy, sweet, and the best fall treat.
Author’s Notes
Caramel Apple Glow-Up!
Last year I shared Caramel Apple Bites, and they quickly became one of my favorite easy fall treats. All the flavor of a caramel apple without all the effort!
This year I’m using those same ingredients (chocolate, caramel, and apples) to make a crunchy bark. It’s sweet, chewy, crunchy, and just plain fun.
One thing to know: caramel apple bark is best enjoyed the same day it’s made. Perfect excuse to bring it to a party or get-together where it’ll disappear in no time!
Caramel Apple Bark Ingredients
| Ingredient | Tip |
|---|---|
| Chocolate chips + coconut oil | Melt together for a smooth, glossy bark base. Coconut oil helps the chocolate set up nicely and break cleaner. |
| Mini pretzel twists | Adds crunch and saltiness to balance the sweetness. |
| Granny Smith apple | Tart flavor keeps the bark from being overly sweet. Be sure to dry the apple pieces completely so the chocolate doesn’t seize. Buy extras to make these caramel apple cups! |
| Soft caramels + heavy cream | Melt into a smooth drizzle, stirring constantly over low heat. If the caramel gets too hot, it will harden too much once on the bark. |
| Flaky sea salt (optional) | A light sprinkle on top makes the flavors pop and gives the caramel apple bark a fancy finish. |
Storage
Caramel Apple Bark is best eaten the same day it’s made. Store in the fridge, or freeze leftovers (texture may change slightly).
More Caramel Apple Treats
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Caramel Apple Fudge
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Apple Dump Cake Recipe
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Apple Cheesecake Bars
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Caramel Apple Bar
Caramel Apple Bark
Caramel Apple Bark gives you the best caramel apple flavor in an easy treat that’s crunchy, chewy, and sweet.
Video
Equipment
- Rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper
Ingredients
- 1-1/4 cup chocolate chips see note 1
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 35 mini pretzel twists
- 1 Granny Smith apple
- 15 soft Werther's caramels
- 1/2 tablespoon heavy cream
- Flaky Sea Salt optional, for topping
Instructions
- Peel the apple if you’d like. Wash, then chop into small pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup room-temperature water with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add the diced apple and let sit for 5–10 minutes. Drain in a colander, rinse under cold water, and shake off excess water. Pat very thoroughly dry with paper towels until completely dry (any moisture will affect how the bark sets).
- Add the chocolate chips and coconut oil to a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring after each burst, until just melted and smooth.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour all but 1/4 cup of the melted chocolate onto the parchment and smooth into an even layer with the back of a spoon. Transfer the reserved chocolate into a zip-top bag, seal without air, and snip off a tiny corner.
- Arrange the pretzels in a single layer on top of the melted chocolate, then sprinkle evenly with the dry apple pieces.
- In a small pot over low heat, combine the caramels and heavy cream. Stir constantly until just melted and smooth. Don’t overheat. Drizzle the caramel over the bark, then drizzle the reserved chocolate on top. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, if desired.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and chill until the chocolate is firm, about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Break or cut the bark into pieces and enjoy! Best eaten the same day, straight from the fridge. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month (this bark doesn’t hold well at room temperature).
Final step! Please let us know how it was by leaving a review.
Recipe Notes
Note 1: Use good-quality chocolate chips for best results. Semi-sweet, dark, milk, or a mix of your favorites all work!
Storage: Best eaten the same day. Store in the fridge and enjoy cold, otherwise the caramel may seep out.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 171kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 2mg | Sodium: 100mg | Potassium: 107mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 31IU | Vitamin C: 0.8mg | Calcium: 17mg | Iron: 0.6mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Caramel Apple Bark Tips
- Dry the apples really well. Moisture will keep the chocolate from setting correctly.
- Melt chocolate slowly. Microwave in short bursts and stir often.
- Cut apples into small, even pieces. This keeps the flavor balanced.
- Work quickly once the caramel is ready. It sets fast, so drizzle right away.
- Don’t spread chocolate too thin. A thicker base holds everything together.
Variations
Change Things Up!
- Different apples: Try Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter caramel apple bark.
- White chocolate topping: Drizzle melted white chocolate on top.
- Add nuts: Sprinkle on chopped pecans, walnuts, or peanuts with the apples.
- Candy topping: Press in toffee bits, mini M&M’s, or crushed Heath bars.
- Festive touch: Add seasonal sprinkles (Halloween, Christmas, etc.) for holiday parties.
- Double chocolate: Use half milk chocolate and half dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
I just made these the other day these are so good!!!! Just the right amount of sweetness. I may not have worked fast enough when putting the caramel and the chocolate on them, they may not be picture perfect. But, not to worry they tasted just fine and did not last very long in the house.
Yay! I’m so happy this Caramel Apple Bark was such a hit! Thanks so much for your comment Carol.