| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 200 | 5g | 4g | 40g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 24g | 5g | 2g | 0.2g |
Whenever I come across a recipe that warms my heart while keeping my health in check, I take a moment to appreciate the delicate balance of wellness and flavor. The Vegan Date Caramel Sauce is such a recipe. A fusion of natural sweetness, creaminess, and an exquisite hint of saltiness, it’s an easy yet opulent sauce that’s a healthier alternative to traditional caramel.
The Health Factor
But this Vegan Date Caramel Sauce isn’t just about taste. It offers a bucket load of health benefits too. Dates are known to be a powerhouse of nutrition, rich in fiber, potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants. Pair these with coconut milk, a source of healthy fats and proteins, and you’ve got a winner on your hands. Plus, this sauce offers a low-glycemic alternative to refined sugar, making it ideal for those keeping a close watch on their sugar intake.
Adaptable and Delicious
I love the versatility of this recipe. The Vegan Date Caramel Sauce bears a striking resemblance to traditional Salted Caramel Sauce, but it offers a vegan and health-conscious twist. It’s perfect as a topping for healthy desserts, a dip for fresh fruits, or a spread for your morning toast. And by the way, if you happen to be a fan of my signature avocado toast recipe, this sauce makes for a surprisingly good match!
Being drawn to healthier yet scrumptious alternatives is not a sole reflection of my Californian upbringing; it’s a commitment to optimizing every dish for both flavor and nutritional value. The Vegan Date Caramel Sauce is the epitome of this philosophy. This sauce does more than add a sweet touch – it enriches your meal with nutrients, caters to an array of dietary preferences, and leaves your taste buds asking for more.
So, why do I love this recipe? Because it lets me enjoy the comfort of delectable sweetness without the regrets of indulgence. Because it’s a delightful reminder that healthier choices don’t have to be boring. Because every dollop connects me back to the sunny valleys of California and the simple, honest endowments of Mother Nature herself.
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 cups Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 cup hot water
- 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt
Method
Step One
To begin with, pit your Medjool dates and measure out 1.5 cups.
Step Two
Now, place the prepared dates in a large heatproof bowl and pour the hot water over them, allowing them to soak for approximately 10 to 15 minutes until they become softened.
Step Three
After the dates are softened, drain them and put the dates in a blender or food processor. Add your full-fat coconut milk, pure vanilla extract, and coarse sea salt to the blender.
Step Four
Blend the mixture on high speed until it becomes a smooth and creamy consistency. This may take a few minutes depending on the power of your blender or food processor.
Step Five
After the sauce is blended to perfection, you may wish to taste and add a touch more salt or a dash more vanilla extract to your liking.
Step Six
Now, your Vegan Date Caramel Sauce is ready to be served. You can use it immediately, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator where it will keep for about 1-2 weeks. Before using from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for a little bit as it thickens when cool.
