Easy Caramel Apple Bark With Pretzels Recipe
This Easy Caramel Apple Bark with Pretzels is a delightful no-bake treat combining the crisp tartness of Granny Smith apples with the rich sweetness of caramel and semi-sweet chocolate, all layered over crunchy crushed pretzels. Perfect as a festive snack or sweet gift, it’s simple to prepare with minimal ingredients and requires just patience to set in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (melting and assembly)
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Fruits
- 2 medium Granny Smith Apples, chopped and patted dry
Chocolate
- 2 1/4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (divided into 2 cups and 1/4 cup)
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup crushed pretzels
- 11 oz candy caramels (melting caramels work best)
- Optional: sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Melt Main Chocolate Layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each until completely smooth. Then, spread the melted chocolate evenly over the prepared cookie sheet.
- Add Pretzels: Evenly sprinkle the crushed pretzels onto the melted chocolate layer, pressing lightly if desired to help them stick.
- Add Apples: Scatter the chopped, dry Granny Smith apples evenly on top of the pretzels layer.
- Melt Caramel: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt the candy caramels in 30-second intervals, stirring frequently until smooth and pourable. Drizzle the melted caramel generously over the layered apples and pretzels.
- Drizzle Remaining Chocolate and Optional Salt: Melt the remaining 1/4 cup of chocolate chips in the microwave and drizzle over the caramel layer for a decorative touch. Optionally, sprinkle sea salt on top to enhance flavor contrast.
- Chill to Set: Place the cookie sheet in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or until the bark is fully set and firm. Once set, break into pieces and serve.
Notes
- Ensure apples are patted dry to prevent excess moisture which could affect the bark’s texture.
- Crushed pretzels provide a salty crunch complementing the sweet caramel and chocolate.
- Using melting caramels yields a smooth drizzle; avoid regular hard caramels which may not melt evenly.
- Refrigerate fully to ensure the bark sets firmly for easy breaking and serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Keywords: caramel apple bark, caramel chocolate bark, apple dessert, pretzel bark, no bake dessert, holiday treats, easy snack
