Introduction

This High-Protein Caramel Apple Bark combines the irresistible flavors of tart Granny Smith apples, rich dark chocolate, and creamy caramel. It’s a delightful snack that’s both satisfying and packed with protein, perfect for a quick energy boost or a sweet treat with a healthy twist.

The image shows several square pieces of dark chocolate bark spread out on a light brown surface. Each piece has a base layer of dark chocolate topped with mini pretzels that are light brown and textured. Over this, there are scattered chunks of pale yellow apple slices and drizzles of shiny caramel sauce that glisten in the light. Dark chocolate is loosely drizzled across the top, adding contrast with smooth and slightly glossy lines. The pieces are sprinkled with fine flakes of sea salt, enhancing the texture and visual appeal. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 Granny Smith apple, chopped into small pieces
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tbsp coconut oil
15 caramel chews
3 tbsp coconut cream
35 mini pretzels
1 scoop Epic Protein Vanilla Lucuma
Flaky sea salt

Instructions

Step 1: Peel the apple if desired, then wash and chop it into small pieces.
Step 2: In a bowl, add 1 cup of room temperature water with a pinch of salt. Soak the apple pieces for 5–10 minutes, then rinse under cold water and pat dry.
Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
Step 4: Stir in the scoop of Epic Protein Vanilla Lucuma into the melted chocolate until well combined.
Step 5: Reserve about ¼ cup of the chocolate mixture. Pour the remaining chocolate into an 8×8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper, smoothing it out with the back of a spoon.
Step 6: Arrange the mini pretzels in a single layer over the chocolate, then scatter the dried apple pieces on top. Set aside.
Step 7: To make the caramel, heat the caramel chews and coconut cream in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the caramel melts and becomes creamy.
Step 8: Drizzle the creamy caramel over the bark mixture, then add drizzles of the reserved chocolate on top.
Step 9: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the bark and place it in the freezer for 30 minutes to set.
Step 10: Once set, chop the bark into large chunks and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a softer bark texture, reduce freezing time and chill in the refrigerator instead.
Substitute mini pretzels with roasted nuts for added crunch and different flavors.
Use any protein powder flavor that complements caramel and chocolate, such as vanilla or cinnamon.
If you prefer a sweeter bark, add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup over the top before freezing.

Storage

Store the caramel apple bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To enjoy, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes or reheat briefly in the microwave to soften the chocolate and caramel.

How to Serve

The image shows several rectangular pieces of a layered treat arranged closely together on a white marbled surface. Each piece has a base layer of dark chocolate, topped with a layer of small pretzel twists in a warm brown color that create a rough texture. On top of the pretzels, there are small chunks of pale yellow apple pieces scattered unevenly. A golden caramel drizzle with a shiny, smooth look is spread across the top, making the pieces look glossy and sticky. The dark chocolate layer also appears to have thin diagonal lines of chocolate drizzle adding more texture. The whole composition creates a rich mix of dark brown, warm orange-brown, pale yellow, and golden colors with crunchy and smooth textures. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, any firm apple variety works well, but Granny Smith offers a nice tart contrast to the sweet chocolate and caramel.

Is it necessary to soak the apple pieces in salt water?

Soaking the apple pieces helps prevent browning and keeps them fresh and crisp in the bark. It’s recommended but optional if you’re short on time.

High-Protein Caramel Apple Bark Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 121 reviews

This High-Protein Caramel Apple Bark combines tart Granny Smith apples, crunchy pretzels, and creamy caramel with rich dark chocolate enhanced by a vanilla lucuma protein boost. A perfect guilt-free treat with layers of texture and sweet-salty flavor, ideal for a nutritious snack or dessert.

Author: Maya
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Fruit

1 Granny Smith apple, chopped into small pieces

Chocolate Layer

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tbsp coconut oil
1 scoop Epic Protein Vanilla Lucuma

Caramel

15 caramel chews
3 tbsp coconut cream

Toppings

35 mini pretzels
Flaky sea salt

Instructions

Prepare the Apple: Peel the apple if desired, wash it thoroughly, then chop into small pieces. Soak the chopped apple in a bowl of room temperature water with a pinch of salt for 5-10 minutes to help reduce oxidation. Rinse under cold water and pat dry.
Melt Chocolate and Mix Protein: In a small bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips with coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between until the chocolate melts smoothly. Stir in one scoop of Epic Protein Vanilla Lucuma until well combined.
Assemble Chocolate Base: Reserve about ¼ cup of the melted chocolate mixture. Pour the remaining chocolate into an 8×8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. Spread evenly using the back of a spoon.
Add Toppings: Arrange the mini pretzels in a single layer on top of the chocolate, then evenly distribute the dried apple pieces over the pretzels.
Prepare Caramel Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the caramel chews with the coconut cream. Stir occasionally until the caramel melts completely and forms a creamy sauce.
Drizzle Caramel and Chocolate: Drizzle the warm caramel sauce over the assembled bark, followed by drizzling the reserved melted chocolate on top for a marbled effect.
Finish and Chill: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top. Place the baking dish in the freezer for 30 minutes to set the bark firmly.
Serve and Store: Once firm, chop the bark into large chunks and enjoy. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain freshness.

Notes

Soaking apples in salted water helps prevent browning and keeps them fresh-looking.
Use room temperature water for soaking apples to avoid shocking the fruit.
If you don’t have a microwave, melt chocolate and coconut oil using a double boiler method gently on the stove.
For extra flavor, consider sprinkling cinnamon lightly on the apples before assembling.
Store the bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent moisture absorption and maintain crispness.

Keywords: protein bark, caramel apple bark, high protein dessert, healthy chocolate bark, gluten free snack