Caramel Bacon Peanut Bark

Oh my. I want some. NOW.

Caramel Bacon Peanut Bark

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces maple or brown sugar bacon
• Two 12-oz. packages milk chocolate bits
• 1-1/2 cups chopped peanuts (salted or not)
• 10-oz bag soft candy caramels
• Large flake sea salt

Directions:

1. Line a baking sheet with waxed paper.
2. Heat a large saute pan over medium-high.
3. Working in batches, add the bacon and cook until very crisp, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Transfer to paper towels to drain, then repeat with the remaining bacon.
5. Set aside to cool completely. Once cool, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
6. Place the chocolate bits in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 20 seconds, or until melted and smooth.
7. Pour the chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet, then tap it on the counter to settle the chocolate into an even, smooth puddle.
8. Immediately sprinkle the bacon and peanuts evenly over the chocolate.
9. Allow the chocolate to fully harden, about 15-20 minutes.
10. Meanwhile, place the caramels in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 20 seconds, or until melted and smooth.
11. Drizzle the caramel over the bark, then sprinkle lightly with the sea salt.
12. Allow to cool and harden, then break into pieces.