Ingredients
Fruit
- 2 small Granny Smith apples (lunchbox size)
- Juice of ½ lemon plus 1 tablespoon water
Base and Toppings
- 40 square pretzel snaps
- 11 oz caramels (unwrapped)
- ⅓ cup plus 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons chopped dry roasted and salted peanuts
Instructions
- Prepare Apples: Core and slice the apples using an apple slicer, then cut each slice into thirds, ensuring they will neatly fit on each pretzel snap. Toss the apple pieces in lemon juice mixed with water to prevent browning. Drain and thoroughly pat dry with paper towels, as wet apples will hinder caramel adhesion.
- Preheat and Arrange Ingredients: Heat your oven to 275°F (135°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange pretzel snaps in a single flat layer, placing one unwrapped caramel on each pretzel snap.
- Bake Caramel: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, allowing caramel to soften and become pliable but not completely melted.
- Add Apple Pieces: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately press one apple piece onto each softened caramel. Work quickly to ensure the caramel sticks before it begins to set.
- Melt Chocolate: Microwave the mini chocolate chips for 60 seconds, stirring at the 30-second mark until smooth. Transfer the melted chocolate to a resealable bag, snip a small corner, and drizzle chocolate over each caramel apple bite.
- Top with Peanuts and Set: Immediately sprinkle each bite with chopped roasted salted peanuts. Let the treats stand until the chocolate hardens completely before serving. For best results, serve the same day or refrigerate covered and consume within a few hours to avoid pretzel sogginess.
Notes
- Ensure apple pieces are completely dry to help caramel stick properly.
- The caramel brand may note 36 caramels per bag, but many contain closer to 40 or more; adjust quantities if needed.
- Serve these bites the same day for optimal crunch; refrigeration helps if making ahead but may soften pretzels.
- You can substitute peanuts with other nuts or omit for allergy considerations.
- If desired, substitute mini chocolate chips with white or dark chocolate chips for different chocolate flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American