Name: Salted Date Caramel Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 15 Medjool dates, pits removed; ½ cup full-fat coconut milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon salt

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Introduction

Salted Date Caramel is a rich, naturally sweet sauce perfect for satisfying your caramel cravings without refined sugar. Made from just a few wholesome ingredients, this vegan-friendly caramel is creamy, luscious, and incredibly versatile in desserts or as a dip.

A close-up view of one smooth, thick layer of creamy peanut butter with a rich golden brown color. The texture is glossy and slightly grainy, with small swirls and ridges forming a soft swirl pattern in the center. Scattered on top are coarse white salt flakes that contrast with the warm color of the peanut butter. The background shows a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

15 medjool dates (pits removed)
½ cup full-fat coconut milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Soak the pitted medjool dates in a bowl filled with hot water. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes to soften, making blending easier.
Step 2: Drain the dates and add them to a high-speed blender along with ½ cup full-fat coconut milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and ¼ tsp salt. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
Step 3: Adjust the consistency by adding more dates to thicken or more coconut milk to thin the caramel to your liking.
Step 4: Transfer to a container and refrigerate to thicken further. Serve as a dip with sliced apples, drizzle over oatmeal or smoothies, or use it as a vegan caramel sauce in your favorite desserts.

Tips & Variations

For a deeper caramel flavor, try lightly toasting the dates before soaking.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist.
Use almond or oat milk instead of coconut milk for a different flavor profile.
If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the mixture twice or strain through a fine mesh sieve.

Storage

Store the salted date caramel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze in small portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in a warm water bath or microwave, stirring to restore its creamy texture.

How to Serve

This close-up image shows a smooth, creamy layer of light brown peanut butter with a swirled texture, featuring soft, rounded ridges and valleys. Scattered evenly on the top are small, white flakes of coarse salt, adding a rough contrast against the shiny, thick peanut butter surface. The background is a white marbled texture, highlighting the glossy, rich look of the peanut butter. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of dates?

Medjool dates are preferred for their softness and natural caramel flavor, but you can use other soft dates. If they’re dry, soak them longer to soften before blending.

Is this caramel suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, this recipe uses only plant-based ingredients, making it completely vegan and dairy-free.