Ingredients
Caramel Base
- 2 cups pitted Medjool dates
- 3 tbsp cashew butter (or tahini)
- 2–3 tbsp almond flour
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Chocolate Coating
- 200 g 70% dark chocolate
- Maldon sea salt for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the date caramel mixture: Add the pitted Medjool dates, cashew butter, almond flour, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to a food processor. Blend the ingredients until the mixture becomes smooth and sticky.
- Adjust consistency: If the mixture feels too wet or sticky to hold together firmly, add an additional 1–2 tablespoons of almond flour and blend again until it reaches a firm, moldable consistency.
- Shape the caramel base: Press the date mixture evenly into an 8×8-inch or 9×4-inch pan lined with parchment paper. Ensure it is compacted well. Place the pan in the freezer for about 1 hour to allow the base to set firmly.
- Cut into squares: Remove the set date caramel base from the freezer. Using a sharp knife, cut the mixture into small squares or bite-size pieces.
- Melt the chocolate: Melt the 70% dark chocolate by placing it in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler method) or by microwaving in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth and fully melted.
- Coat the caramel squares: Dip each caramel square into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Place the coated squares onto a tray lined with parchment paper.
- Add sea salt topping: While the chocolate coating is still wet, sprinkle each piece with some Maldon sea salt to enhance the flavor with a subtle salty crunch.
- Set the chocolate coating: Transfer the chocolate-coated caramels to the fridge or freezer and chill for about 1 hour, allowing the chocolate to harden completely.
- Storage: Store the finished chocolate date caramels in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer to keep them fresh and firm until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Use Medjool dates for best texture and natural sweetness.
- Cashew butter can be substituted with tahini for a different flavor profile.
- If almond flour is not available, finely ground almonds can be used.
- Make sure to chill the mixture long enough to set well before cutting and coating.
- Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freezer for up to 1 month.
- For a nut-free version, consider using sunflower seed butter and a suitable flour alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegan