Irresistibly Easy 4 Ingredient Date Caramels for Guilt-Free Indulgence Recipe

Introduction

If you’re craving something sweet but want to keep it guilt-free, these irresistibly easy 4-ingredient date caramels are perfect. Made with natural ingredients and coated in rich chocolate, they satisfy your sweet tooth without the mess of traditional caramel.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
• 2 tablespoons almond butter or sunflower seed butter for nut-free option
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
• 1 cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bar (dark chocolate recommended)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Soak the pitted dates in hot water for about 10 minutes to soften.
2. Step 2: Drain the dates and place them in a blender with almond butter and melted coconut oil. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Step 3: Line a 9×5 inch loaf pan and transfer the caramel mixture into it, spreading evenly. Freeze for 2 to 3 hours until firm.
4. Step 4: Once set, remove from the pan and slice into 12 squares.
5. Step 5: Melt the chocolate chips with 2 teaspoons of coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth.
6. Step 6: Dip each caramel square into the melted chocolate and place on a lined plate.
7. Step 7: Refrigerate the coated caramels for 1 hour to allow the chocolate to set.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on the caramels before the chocolate sets.
• Use sunflower seed butter to make this recipe nut-free without sacrificing creaminess.
• Try different types of chocolate like milk or white chocolate for variety.

Storage

Store the date caramels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating to soften slightly. Reheat gently by letting them warm in your hand or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of dates?

Medjool dates are preferred for their softness and sweetness, but you can use other dates if soaked thoroughly until soft.

Is it necessary to add coconut oil to the chocolate?

Adding a small amount of coconut oil helps the chocolate melt smoothly and gives a shiny finish, but you can omit it if preferred. The chocolate may be a little thicker and less glossy without it.

Irresistibly Easy 4 Ingredient Date Caramels for Guilt-Free Indulgence Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 61 reviews

Delight in these irresistibly easy 4-ingredient date caramels, a guilt-free indulgence combining natural sweetness from Medjool dates with creamy almond butter and rich dark chocolate coating. Perfect for a healthy snack or a satisfying treat, these caramels require minimal prep and use simple, wholesome ingredients for a deliciously smooth and chewy caramel base enrobed in luscious chocolate.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 12 squares 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: Vegan
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Caramel Base

• 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
• 2 tablespoons almond butter (or sunflower seed butter for nut-free)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted

Chocolate Coating

• 1 cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bar (dark chocolate recommended)
• 2 teaspoons coconut oil (for melting chocolate)

Instructions

1. Soak Dates: Start by soaking 1 cup of pitted Medjool dates in hot water for about 10 minutes to soften them for blending.
2. Blend Together: Drain the soaked dates and add them to a blender along with 2 tablespoons of almond butter and 1 tablespoon of melted coconut oil. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, forming the caramel base.
3. Set the Caramel: Transfer the blended caramel mixture to a lined 9×5 inch loaf pan and spread it evenly. Place the pan in the freezer and chill for 2 to 3 hours until firm.
4. Slice the Caramels: Once the caramel base is firm, remove it from the loaf pan and slice into 12 equal squares to prepare for coating.
5. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup of chocolate chips together with 2 teaspoons of coconut oil in short bursts, stirring to ensure smoothness.
6. Coat the Caramels: Dip each caramel square into the melted chocolate, fully coating it. Place the coated caramels on a lined plate or tray to set.
7. Set the Chocolate: Refrigerate the chocolate-coated caramels for 1 hour, allowing the chocolate to harden and set perfectly before serving.

Notes

• For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle sea salt flakes on the chocolate-coated caramels right after dipping, before the chocolate sets.
• Use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter for a nut-free variation.
• Choose dark chocolate for a richer, less sweet flavor and enhanced antioxidants.
• Store the finished caramels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Ensure dates are thoroughly pitted to avoid any unexpected bites.

Keywords: date caramels, healthy caramel recipe, vegan sweets, 4 ingredient caramels, almond butter caramels, dark chocolate treats, easy caramel dessert, guilt-free caramel