Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites Recipe

Introduction

Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites are a delightful fall treat that combines sweet, salty, and fruity flavors in every bite. These simple snacks are perfect for parties, cozy gatherings, or an easy homemade dessert. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, anyone can make this irresistible seasonal favorite.

Ingredients

• 12 pieces Pretzel Snaps (traditional salted pretzels)
• 20 pieces Caramel Squares (classic caramel candies)
• 2 medium Apples (fresh tart apples like Granny Smith)
• 1 cup Semisweet Chocolate Chips (for drizzling)
• 1/2 cup Chopped Peanuts (optional for added crunch)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Arrange the pretzel snaps on the prepared baking tray in a single layer.
3. Step 3: Unwrap the caramel squares and place one on top of each pretzel snap.
4. Step 4: Bake the tray in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, until the caramel softens.
5. Step 5: While baking, core and cube the apples into 1-inch pieces.
6. Step 6: Remove the caramel pretzels from the oven and immediately press a cube of apple into the center of each one.
7. Step 7: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips in 15-20 second bursts, stirring between each until smooth.
8. Step 8: Drizzle the melted chocolate over each caramel apple pretzel bite. Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top if desired.
9. Step 9: Let the bites cool completely at room temperature before serving to allow the chocolate to set.

Tips & Variations

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate.
• Try using different types of nuts or omit them altogether for a nut-free treat.
• For extra flair, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the chocolate drizzle to enhance flavor.
• If you prefer, substitute caramel squares with soft caramel sauce for easier spreading.

Storage

Store the caramel apple pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh as the pretzels may lose their crunch over time. If needed, you can refrigerate them for longer storage, but bring to room temperature before serving. Avoid heating once assembled to maintain the texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?

Yes, you can use sweeter apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp, but tart apples like Granny Smith provide the best balance with the caramel and chocolate.

How do I melt the chocolate without burning it?

Melt the chocolate chips in short bursts of 15-20 seconds in the microwave, stirring thoroughly between each burst to ensure even melting and prevent burning.

Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites Recipe

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4.6 from 87 reviews

Caramel Apple Pretzel Bites are a delightful fall treat combining the sweet richness of melted caramel and chocolate with tart apple pieces and crunchy salted pretzels. This easy-to-make recipe uses simple ingredients and quick oven baking to create bite-sized snacks perfect for seasonal gatherings or cozy afternoons.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Bites

• 12 pieces Pretzel Snaps (Traditional salted pretzels)
• 20 pieces Caramel Squares (Classic caramel candies)
• 2 medium Apples (Fresh tart apples like Granny Smith)
• 1 cup Semisweet Chocolate Chips (For drizzling)
• 1/2 cup Chopped Peanuts (Optional for added crunch)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
2. Arrange Pretzels: Place the pretzel snaps on the prepared baking tray in a single layer ensuring they do not overlap for even melting.
3. Add Caramels: Unwrap the caramel squares and position one caramel on top of each pretzel snap carefully.
4. Bake Caramel Pretzels: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes until caramels are soft and slightly melted but not fully liquefied.
5. Prepare Apples: While the pretzels and caramels are baking, core and cube the apples into 1-inch pieces. Optionally soak the cubes in lemon juice to prevent browning and then pat dry.
6. Assemble Bites: Remove the caramel-topped pretzels from the oven and immediately press a cube of apple into the center of each to adhere while the caramel is still warm.
7. Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring between intervals until smooth.
8. Drizzle Chocolate: Carefully drizzle the melted chocolate over each Caramel Apple Pretzel Bite using a spoon or piping bag for a decorative finish. Optionally sprinkle with chopped peanuts for extra texture.
9. Cool: Allow the bites to cool completely at room temperature so the caramel and chocolate set before serving.

Notes

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavor.
• For added flavor, lightly toast the chopped peanuts before sprinkling on top.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and crunch.
• If you prefer a softer pretzel, you can slightly warm them before assembling.
• Be careful not to over-bake the caramel as it may harden once cooled.

Keywords: caramel bites, apple snacks, pretzel treats, fall recipes, easy snacks, holiday treats