Polar Bear Paws: Caramel Peanut Clusters Dipped in Vanilla Almond Bark Recipe

Introduction

Polar Bear Paws are a delightful no-bake treat combining rich caramel, crunchy peanuts, and smooth vanilla almond bark. Perfect for a sweet snack or holiday gift, these clusters are easy to make and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients

• 1 bag (11 ounces) caramel bits
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups (219 g) dry roasted peanuts, salted
• 16 ounces vanilla almond bark

Instructions

1. Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel bits, butter, and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the caramel is completely melted and smooth, about 1 to 2 minutes.
3. Step 3: Stir in the dry roasted peanuts until they are evenly coated with the caramel mixture.
4. Step 4: Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop clusters of the caramel-peanut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes until the clusters are firm.
5. Step 5: Break the vanilla almond bark into pieces and place in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
6. Step 6: Remove the chilled caramel-peanut clusters from the refrigerator in small batches to prevent softening. Using a fork, lift each cluster and gently dip it into the melted almond bark. Use a spoon to help coat the top if needed.
7. Step 7: Tap the fork gently on the edge of the bowl to remove excess coating, then place the dipped candy back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a toothpick or skewer to slide the candy off the fork if it sticks.
8. Step 8: Repeat the dipping process with the remaining clusters.
9. Step 9: Let the candies set at room temperature until fully firm, or speed up the process by placing the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes.

Tips & Variations

• For a nut-free version, substitute peanuts with toasted pumpkin seeds or dried fruit.
• Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the almond bark coating before it sets for a sweet-salty flavor boost.
• If you find the almond bark too thick, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil while melting to achieve a smoother coating.

Storage

Store the Polar Bear Paws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For a firmer texture, keep them refrigerated. Before serving, let chilled candies sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate instead of vanilla almond bark?

Yes, you can substitute regular chocolate chips or melting wafers, but keep in mind vanilla almond bark provides a sweeter, creamier coating that complements the caramel and peanuts well.

Do I have to refrigerate the clusters before dipping?

Yes, chilling the clusters helps them firm up, making them easier to dip without falling apart and ensuring the almond bark coating adheres nicely.

Polar Bear Paws: Caramel Peanut Clusters Dipped in Vanilla Almond Bark Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 85 reviews

• Author: Matteo
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 23 servings 1x

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Description

Polar Bear Paws are delightful caramel peanut clusters coated in smooth vanilla almond bark, combining gooey caramel, crunchy peanuts, and creamy chocolate for a perfect sweet and salty treat. These no-bake candies are easy to make and ideal for sharing during holidays or as a tasty snack.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Caramel Mixture

• 1 bag (11 ounces) caramel bits
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups (219 g) dry roasted salted peanuts

Coating

• 16 ounces vanilla almond bark

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Instructions

1. Prepare Baking Sheet. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside to use later for placing clusters and coated candies.
2. Melt Caramel Mixture. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramel bits, unsalted butter, and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth, about 1 to 2 minutes total.
3. Mix in Peanuts. Stir the dry roasted salted peanuts into the melted caramel until all nuts are evenly coated.
4. Form Clusters and Chill. Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop clusters of the caramel-peanut mixture onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. Place the sheet in the refrigerator to chill for 30 minutes until the clusters are firm.
5. Melt Almond Bark. Break the vanilla almond bark into pieces and place in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the bark is completely melted and smooth.
6. Dip Clusters in Almond Bark. Remove the chilled clusters in small batches. Using a fork, lift each cluster and gently dip it into the melted almond bark, coating it thoroughly. Use a spoon to help cover the top if necessary.
7. Place Dipped Clusters on Sheet. Tap the fork on the edge of the bowl to remove excess coating, then transfer the dipped cluster onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a toothpick or skewer as needed to slide the cluster off the fork.
8. Repeat Dipping. Continue dipping remaining clusters until all are coated with almond bark.
9. Let Candies Set. Allow the dipped candies to set at room temperature until firm, or speed up the process by refrigerating them for 15 to 20 minutes.
10. Store Properly. Store the Polar Bear Paws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Refrigerate if you prefer a firmer texture before serving.

Notes

• Ensure to microwave in short intervals to prevent burning the caramel and almond bark.
• Work in small batches when dipping clusters to avoid melting the chilled candy.
• You can substitute peanuts with other nuts like almonds or cashews according to preference.
• Store in a cool place to maintain the texture of the almond bark coating.
• If vanilla almond bark is unavailable, white chocolate coating can be used as an alternative.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Candy
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: caramel peanut clusters, vanilla almond bark, no-bake candy, Polar Bear Paws recipe, sweet and salty snack, holiday treats, easy candy recipe