How to Make Date Caramel

Learn how to make date caramel for a healthier alternative. Use on cookies, cakes, brownies, bars, ice cream, and more! Made with with just 4 ingredients. Gluten-free and vegan.

Date caramel is a revelation. 

Just like the sweet, decadent texture and taste of the traditional confection, this is the healthy alternative you will love. 

So, think cookies, brownies, bars, cakes, and ice cream. The possibilities are delicious.

The Best Dates for Date Caramel

Medjool dates are optimal for this recipe. They soak easily and quickly. Their tawny color lends to a beautiful light golden brown when blended with the other ingredients. 

You can certainly use other types of dates for this recipe, but you will need to factor in a longer soak time. Soak time is essential for achieving a smooth, creamy outcome. Using hot water keeps soak time to a minimum.

Minimal Ingredients

Now, sometimes healthy alternatives to sweet favorites feels complicated or use ingredients that don't seem very accessible. Not to worry. Plus, no cream or white sugar here. Take a look at the simple ingredients you'll need:

• Medjool dates
• Coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk
• Maple syrup
• Vanilla extract

Storing Date Caramel

Use an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to a couple weeks. Give it a quick stir to reincorporate before using.

Want more gluten-free recipes with this healthier dessert hack? Check out these no-bake chocolate caramel bars or the recipes below!

Recipes Using Dates

Chocolate Almond Butter Stuffed Dates

Healthy Samoas Cookie Bars

Healthy Star Crunch

Gluten-Free Apple Tart

Blackberry Cashew Bars

How to Make Date Caramel

Learn how to make date caramel for a healthier alternative. Use on cookies, cakes, brownies, bars, ice cream, and more! Made with with just 4 ingredients. 

5 from 2 votes

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Course: Dessert, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 1 cup

Calories: 45kcal

Author: Tessa

Ingredients

• ▢ 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted and halved
• ▢ ⅛ teaspoon salt
• ▢ ⅓ cup coconut or unsweetened almond milk
• ▢ ⅓ cup maple syrup
• ▢ ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

• Place dates into a blender. Cover with hot water and allow to sit for 5 -10 minutes. Drain water and place dates back in blender. Add salt, coconut milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
• Store date caramel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tablespoon | Calories: 45kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 26mg | Potassium: 79mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 14IU | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 1mg

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