Sweet & Salty Treat (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Chocolate Base
01 -
8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips
02 -
8 ounces chocolate bark, roughly chopped into chunks
→ Caramel Apple Topping
03 -
2 cups melting caramels (like Kraft Baking Caramels or Caramel Bits)
04 -
2 tablespoons heavy cream
05 -
2½ cups diced fresh green apple, divided
→ Finishing Touches
06 -
1 cup mini pretzels or roughly chopped regular pretzels
07 -
½ teaspoon flaky sea salt (Maldon works beautifully)
# Instructions:
01 -
Get a rimmed baking sheet ready by lining it with either parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
02 -
Combine the dark chocolate chips and chopped chocolate bark in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring well after each interval, until everything melts together into a silky, smooth mixture.
03 -
Pour the melted chocolate onto your prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly to about ¼-inch thickness. Pop it in the refrigerator to firm up while you work on the caramel.
04 -
Put the melting caramels and heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir frequently as it melts, cooking for about 5 minutes until the caramel becomes smooth and creamy.
05 -
Take the pan off the heat and fold in 2 cups of the diced green apple, stirring until the apple pieces are nicely coated with caramel.
06 -
Pull the chilled chocolate from the fridge and spread the caramel-apple mixture evenly over the top. Scatter the remaining ½ cup of diced apple across the surface, then add the mini pretzels and finish with a generous sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
07 -
Place the bark back in the refrigerator and let it chill until the caramel sets completely, which should take about 1 to 2 hours.
08 -
Once firm, cut or break the bark into pieces and dig in!
# Notes:
01 -
Keep any leftover bark in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the apple won't stay as crisp and the pretzels will soften over time.
02 -
This treat combines sweet and savory flavors with a satisfying mix of textures - gooey caramel, crunchy pretzels, and fresh apple on a rich chocolate base.