Preparation

1. Prep apples: Chop 1 cup of apple into bite-size pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture (this helps the bark set better).

2. Melt chocolate:

   • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup dairy-free chocolate chips and 1 tbsp coconut oil.

   • Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then repeat in 30-second intervals until fully melted and smooth.

3. Spread chocolate base: Pour the melted chocolate onto a silicone or parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread it into an even rectangle (about ¼ inch thick).

4. Add toppings: Sprinkle the chopped apples and broken pretzels evenly over the chocolate while it’s still warm. Gently press them down so they stick.

5. Make the caramel drizzle:

   • In a microwave-safe glass bowl, add ½ cup maple syrup, ½ tsp vanilla extract, 2 heaping tbsp coconut oil, and 4 tbsp peanut butter.

   • Microwave in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.

6. Drizzle caramel: Spoon or drizzle the caramel mixture over the bark, letting it fall randomly across the top.

7. Freeze: Place the pan in the freezer for at least 1 hour, or until completely solid.

8. Cut & enjoy: Once firm, remove from freezer, cut into bark pieces, and enjoy!

Storage

• In the freezer: Best stored in an airtight container in the freezer. Lasts up to 2 weeks.

• In the fridge: Can be kept in the fridge for 3–4 days, but apples may soften and release moisture.

And there you have it—Dairy-Free Caramel Apple Bark that is crunchy, gooey, chocolatey, and just a little bit messy. Pop it in the freezer so it lasts longer. Break it up, snack on it, share it—or don’t share it, I won’t tell.