4 Ingredient Date Caramels Recipe
These 4 Ingredient Date Caramels are a deliciously simple, naturally sweet treat made from medjool dates, almond butter, and coconut oil, coated in smooth chocolate. They combine the rich caramel-like flavor of dates with a creamy chocolate coating, perfect for a healthy snack or dessert that is both vegan and gluten-free.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 caramels 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Date Caramel
- 1 cup packed medjool dates, pitted
- 2 tablespoons creamy almond butter (or any nut/seed butter)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
Chocolate Coating
- 1 cup chocolate chips or an 8-ounce chocolate bar
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil, melted
- Soak the dates: Place medjool dates in a bowl of very hot water and let soak for 10 minutes to soften them thoroughly.
- Blend the caramel: Drain the soaked dates and transfer them to a food processor or high-speed blender. Add almond butter and melted coconut oil. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
- Freeze the caramel: Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and spread the date caramel evenly into the pan. Place it in the freezer for 2-3 hours until firm to the touch.
- Slice the caramel: Remove the firm date caramel from the freezer and lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board and cut into 12 small, evenly sized squares.
- Melt the chocolate: In a heat-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and 2 teaspoons of coconut oil together, either using a microwave in short bursts or a double boiler on the stove, stirring until smooth.
- Dip the caramels: Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each date caramel square into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Lift out carefully and place on a parchment-lined plate.
- Set the chocolate: Repeat for all caramels, then transfer the chocolate-coated pieces to the fridge. Let them chill for 1 hour or until the chocolate hardens and sets completely.
- Serve and store: Enjoy immediately or store the chocolate covered date caramels in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for later.
Notes
- Use high-quality medjool dates for the best natural sweetness and softer texture.
- You can substitute almond butter with any other nut or seed butter like cashew, sunflower, or peanut butter depending on preference.
- Choose dark or semi-sweet chocolate to keep the treat healthier and richer in flavor.
- Make sure to melt the chocolate gently to avoid burning or seizing.
- Store the caramels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- For a nut-free option, use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of almond butter.
Keywords: date caramel, healthy caramel recipe, vegan caramel, chocolate covered caramel, no bake desserts, medjool dates, almond butter snacks