Homemade Caramel

Dates are blended with peanut butter, maple syrup, and other ingredients to create caramel.

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Introduction

Homemade caramel is a versatile, naturally sweetened sauce made with a few wholesome ingredients. This recipe blends softened dates with peanut butter, maple syrup, and a touch of vanilla essence for a rich, nutty flavor. The result is a smooth and creamy caramel that can be used as a spread, dip, or drizzle for desserts.

The simplicity of the ingredients makes this recipe both approachable and flexible. By using Medjool dates, known for their soft texture and natural sweetness, you eliminate the need for refined sugars. Adding peanut butter gives the caramel a savory depth, while a small amount of coconut oil enhances its creamy texture.

This date caramel is not only delicious but also relatively nutritious compared to traditional caramel sauces. It’s naturally gluten-free, soy-free, and suitable for meal prep, making it a great choice for a variety of dietary needs. However, as it contains nuts and maple syrup, it’s not nut-free or sugar-free.

Ideal for both casual snacks and special occasions, this caramel can be paired with fruits, baked goods, or even breakfast dishes like pancakes or oatmeal. With minimal effort and no cooking required, it’s an excellent addition to your repertoire of healthy dessert alternatives.

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Prep Time

Cook Time

Servings

Calorie/Serving

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Soften Dates: Place the dates in a bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them soak for 10 minutes to soften. Drain and discard the soaking water.
  2. Blend: Add the soaked dates, peanut butter, vanilla essence, coconut oil, maple syrup, and salt to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
  3. Adjust Consistency: If the mixture is too thick, add 1-2 teaspoons of fresh water (not the soaking water) until you achieve the desired consistency.
  4. Store: Transfer the caramel to a jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Recipe Notes

  • Use Medjool dates for the best texture and flavor; substitute with Deglet Noor dates if needed.
  • If dates are very dry, extend soaking time to ensure they blend smoothly.
  • Use natural peanut butter without added sugar or salt for a cleaner flavor.
  • Coconut oil is optional but adds creaminess; omit if avoiding oils.
  • Maple syrup can be replaced with agave syrup or omitted for a less sweet version.
  • Adjust the consistency by adding water a teaspoon at a time during blending.
  • The caramel thickens when refrigerated but softens at room temperature.
  • For a nut-free version, replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • This caramel is best enjoyed fresh; freezing may alter its texture.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spiced twist.
  • This recipe doubles easily for larger batches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, but they are less sweet and may require longer soaking.

Yes, but the caramel will lose its nutty flavor. Substitute with almond butter or sunflower seed butter if preferred.

Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the creamy texture.

It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Agave syrup can be used.

Yes, simply omit the coconut oil, though the texture may be less creamy.

Add 1-2 teaspoons of water at a time during blending until desired consistency is reached.

No, but you can replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.

Yes, it works well as a filling for cakes, cupcakes, or pastries.

Serve it with fruits, on toast, as a pancake topping, or as a dessert drizzle.

While not ideal for high-temperature baking, it can be swirled into batters or used as a topping.

A strong immersion blender may work, but achieving smooth consistency might be challenging.

Nutritional Info (per Serving)

  • Servings: 8
  • Calories: 85
  • Protein: 1.2g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Sugar: 13g
  • Fat: 2.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 45mg

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