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–+ servings
Vegan Date Caramel Apples 1

Vegan Date Caramel Apples

A healthier twist on traditional caramel apples using only natural sweetness from dates. These Vegan Date Caramel Apples deliver all the indulgence with ingredients you can feel good about serving to your family.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American, Vegan
Servings 6 apples
Calories 315 kcal

Equipment

  • Food Processor or High-Powered Blender
  • Parchment Paper
  • Wooden sticks or popsicle sticks
  • Baking Sheet

Ingredients
  

Date Caramel

  • 2 cups Medjool dates pitted, about 20-24 soft dates
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk or any plant milk of choice
  • 2 tbsp almond butter for richness and depth
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt to enhance the caramel flavor
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon optional but recommended

For the Apples

  • 6 medium organic apples Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Pink Lady work best
  • 6 sturdy wooden sticks or popsicle sticks

Optional Toppings

  • chopped nuts optional
  • cacao nibs optional
  • shredded coconut optional
  • vegan dark chocolate chips optional

Instructions
 

  • Wash and thoroughly dry your apples. This is crucial for the caramel to adhere properly. Remove the stems and insert wooden sticks about halfway through the core from the stem end.
  • Place apples in the refrigerator while preparing the date caramel; chilled apples help the caramel set faster.
  • Add the pitted dates to your food processor or high-powered blender. Make sure to check each date for pits. Pulse a few times to break down the dates.
  • Add the almond milk, almond butter, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon (if using) to the food processor. Process for 3-4 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides.
  • Be patient during this step – what starts as a crumbly mixture will gradually transform into a smooth, glossy caramel. If your mixture seems too thick, add additional plant milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach a thick but dippable consistency.
  • Remove your chilled apples from the refrigerator. Transfer your date caramel to a medium bowl for easier dipping.
  • Hold each apple by the stick and twirl it in the caramel, using a silicone spatula to help coat the apple evenly. Allow excess caramel to drip off before placing on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • If using toppings, sprinkle or roll the caramel-coated apples in your chosen additions immediately after dipping, before the caramel sets.
  • Place the dipped apples in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set the caramel. The natural date caramel won't harden as much as conventional caramel, maintaining a delightfully soft, chewy texture even when chilled.

Notes

- For best results, use soft, moist Medjool dates. If your dates are firm, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before using.
- Make sure apples are completely dry after washing, or the caramel won't adhere properly.
- The date caramel can be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Store completed caramel apples in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For easier eating, consider making apple 'nachos' by slicing the apples and drizzling with the date caramel.

Nutrition

Calories: 315kcalCarbohydrates: 75gProtein: 3gFat: 4gSodium: 120mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 10gSugar: 65gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 0.8mg
Keyword Date Caramel, Vegan Caramel Apples, Healthy Treats, Sugar-Free Dessert, Fall Recipe
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