Caramel Apple Bark

If you want an enticing-looking dessert that is easy to make, this caramel apple bark is a great way to combine all the signature fall flavors into one dish!

I don’t know about you, but I get quite nostalgic when thinking about caramel apples. They make me think of cozy sweaters, Halloween decorations, and that unmistakable smell of autumn funfairs.

There’s one problem, though… Caramel apples are a nightmare to eat! They are always huge, but unless you finish the entire thing in one go, you’re stuck walking around with a sticky treat in your hand that you cannot put down.

This caramel apple bark recipe is a perfect solution for anyone like me. It features all the things I love about candy apples without the inconvenience! Plus, this recipe is fully plant-based.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• If you love Halloween, this caramel apple bark recipe is the epitome of the classic October flavors! Tart apples with sweet caramel, dark chocolate, and salty pretzels… What more could you ask for?
• Honestly, even if you make vegan caramel from scratch, this recipe is still extremely easy and beginner-friendly.
• If you’re looking for a fun and inclusive activity to share with your kids this fall, why not make this delicious caramel apple bark recipe together?
• As well as being a quick snack, this dessert makes a great centerpiece for any dinner party or Halloween gathering that you have coming up.

What Kind of Recipe is a “Bark”?

A bark typically refers to a type of confection made from melted chocolate that is spread thinly and then cooled or refrigerated until it hardens. It often includes various toppings such as nuts, dried fruits, candies, or even spices for added flavor and texture.

Once solid, the chocolate can be broken into irregular pieces. The name shows the similarity between this type of dessert and tree bark (both in shape and in color).

There are many variations of bark desserts, and it can be customized to suit different tastes and occasions. For example, as well as using chocolate, you may spread and freeze yogurt with your choice of toppings. 

How to Make This Recipe

Start by lining a 13×18-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.

You can use store-bought vegan caramel or make it from scratch. If you’re doing the latter, add sugar, coconut milk, sea salt, and cornstarch slurry into a small saucepan.

Slowly heat it over medium heat to a simmer. Cook on low heat for about 15 minutes until slightly thickened. Be careful not to overcook and remember that it will thicken even more once it cools down.

Transfer your homemade vegan caramel to a jar or container and wait for it to cool down. 

To stop the apples from turning brown, drizzle them over with lemon juice and leave them for a few minutes. Before adding them in, pat them dry with a paper towel.

To make the caramel apple bark, melt the chocolate and coconut oil using a double boiler or a microwave.

Using a spatula, spread the chocolate onto the lined baking sheet until you have an even layer. Save a couple of spoonfuls for later. 

Next, add the pretzels and apples, trying to distribute them evenly across the surface of the chocolate..

Drizzle the caramel over the top, followed by the chocolate you reserved earlier. 

To set, place the entire sheet pan in the freezer for about 4 hours, then break into pieces and enjoy. Remove and break or slice into pieces. Store in the freezer for up to one week tightly covered. 

Hack It!

• This recipe is obviously inspired by caramel apples and other elements of fun fall desserts. However, you can customize it to your taste by adding or swapping certain ingredients.
• Although this recipe details the ingredients you need to make vegan caramel from scratch, you can also use a store-bought vegan caramel alternative if you have access to it.
• If you’re gluten-free, regular pretzels are out of the question. You can either use gluten-free pretzels or sub crushed nuts, seeds or even sprinkles!
• If you prefer more uniform, even slices, you can score the chocolate once it sets a little bit before you place it in the freezer.

Brief History of Caramel Apples

Caramel apples have a delightful history that dates back over a century. They are believed to have originated in the United States, with multiple stories attributing their creation to different individuals and time periods.

One widely circulated story attributes the invention of caramel apples to Dan Walker, a Kraft Foods employee. In the 1950s, he supposedly experimented with leftover caramel from Kraft’s caramel candy production by melting it and dipping apples into it. This resulted in the popular treat we know today.

Regardless of the exact origin, caramel apples became a staple of fall and Halloween festivities in the United States. They are often associated with county fairs, carnivals, and other seasonal events. 

Unfortunately (at least in my opinion), caramel apples are not the most convenient snack. Plus, once you start eating it, you kind of have to finish it! This caramel apple bark is a much more convenient way to enjoy the familiar flavors in a simple form.

Other Recipes You’ll Love

• Vegan Pumpkin Spice Creamer
• Microwave (AKA Emergency) Cake
• Healthy Blueberry Jam Without Pectin
• Oat Pulp Truffle Recipe
• Vegan Marshmallow Recipe

For even more healthy, plant-based recipes, check out the PlantYou Planner! It’s a digital meal planner that features over 600 delicious vegan recipes! Every recipe, from breakfast and lunch, to Christmas dinner and Valentine’s dessert, can be adjusted to make enough servings for your household size. What’s more, you can take advantage of the FREE beginner vegan meal plan before you make up your mind.

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