Date Caramels Recipe

Introduction

These Date Caramels are a naturally sweet, chewy treat made from simple ingredients like Medjool dates and almond butter. They offer a delightful nutty flavor with a satisfying texture, perfect for a healthy snack or a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients

• 11 large Medjool dates, pitted
• 1/4 cup almond butter (exact measure)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, room temperature
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds

Instructions

1. Step 1: Add the pitted dates, almond butter, and room-temperature coconut oil into a food processor. Process until the mixture begins to gather together, scraping the processor sides twice during processing. You’ll notice the oils beginning to separate, indicating the perfect texture.
2. Step 2: Add the sliced almonds and pulse for about 5 to 10 seconds, scraping the sides once. This allows the almonds to incorporate while keeping most of their texture intact for a lovely crunch.
3. Step 3: Remove the blade and stir the mixture with a spoon to form one ball. Place it onto a piece of parchment paper, cover with another parchment sheet, and gently roll it into a 5×5 inch square. Transfer the parchment-wrapped square to a plate and refrigerate overnight or until firm. Avoid using your hands in this step to prevent the warmth from releasing more oils.
4. Step 4: Cut the firm square into 20 small squares. Wrap each piece in parchment paper, twisting the ends, and refrigerate. You can also store the cut squares in a covered container in the refrigerator for easy snacking anytime.

Tips & Variations

• Use soft Medjool dates for easier processing and a chewier texture. Dry or less sweet dates might change the flavor and consistency.
• Substitute almond butter with peanut butter or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor profile.
• Add a pinch of sea salt or a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance the caramel notes.

Storage

Store the wrapped caramel squares in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage. When ready to enjoy, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating for a softer texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these date caramels without a food processor?

While a food processor makes the task easier and ensures a smooth texture, you can finely chop the dates and almonds and mix thoroughly by hand, but the consistency might be chunkier.

Are these date caramels suitable for people with nut allergies?

This recipe contains almond butter and sliced almonds, so it’s not suitable for those with nut allergies. You could try substituting with seed butters like sunflower seed butter, but the flavor and texture will differ.

Date Caramels Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 140 reviews

These Date Caramels are a delicious and healthy treat made with Medjool dates, almond butter, coconut oil, and sliced almonds. Naturally sweetened and packed with wholesome ingredients, they offer a rich, chewy caramel-like texture with a delightful crunch from the almonds. Perfect for a guilt-free snack or a homemade gift.

• Author: zara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 20 pieces 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 11 large Medjool dates, pitted
• 1/4 cup almond butter (exact measure)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, room temperature
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds

Instructions

1. Process Dates and Nut Butter: Add the pitted Medjool dates, almond butter, and coconut oil into a food processor. Process until the mixture begins to gather together, scraping down the sides twice during processing. You will notice the oils starting to separate, which indicates the perfect texture has been reached.
2. Incorporate Almonds: Add the sliced almonds and pulse for about 5 to 10 seconds, scraping the sides once in between. This short processing time ensures most of the almonds stay intact, adding a lovely texture to the candy.
3. Shape the Mixture: Remove the food processor blade and use a spoon to gather the mixture into one ball. Place the mixture onto a piece of parchment paper and cover with another piece of parchment paper. Gently roll to form a 5×5 inch square. Transfer the parchment with the shaped mixture onto a plate and refrigerate overnight or until firm. Avoid using your hands during this step to prevent the warmth from releasing more oils.
4. Cut and Store: Once firm, cut the caramel square into 20 smaller squares. Wrap each piece in parchment paper, twisting the ends to secure. Store the wrapped caramels in the refrigerator until serving. Alternatively, the cut squares can be placed in any covered container and refrigerated for snacking anytime.

Notes

• For best results, use large Medjool dates as they provide natural sweetness and a soft texture.
• Room temperature coconut oil ensures smooth mixing and binding.
• Avoid warming the mixture with hands during shaping to maintain consistency.
• Store caramels refrigerated to keep them firm and fresh.
• If unavailable, almond butter can be substituted with other nut butters, but it may alter the flavor and texture slightly.

Keywords: date caramels, healthy caramel, vegan caramel recipe, no-bake snacks, almond date candy, gluten free sweets