These vegan caramel brownies are the ultimate treat, featuring a fudgy brownie base, creamy caramel filling, and a rich chocolate topping.
Let’s dive right into it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s dive into the essential components of this recipe. Make sure to gather these ingredients:
For the Brownie Base:
- Walnuts or Pecans: 200g (1 ¾ cups)
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: 80g (¾ cup + 2 tsp)
- Sea Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Medjool Dates: 300g (2 cups), pitted (approximately 15 dates)
- Cashew Butter: 200g (¾ cup + 2 tbsp)
For the Caramel Layer:
- Medjool Dates: 225g (¾ cup), pitted (about 11 dates)
- Pure Maple Syrup: 80ml (⅓ cup)
- Cashew Butter: 80g (⅓ cup)
- Chilled Full-Fat Coconut Milk: 240g (1 cup), use only the thick part from the top of the can
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Coconut Oil: 1 tablespoon, solid
- Sea Salt: ½ teaspoon
Topping:
- Dark Chocolate: 180g (6.3 oz)
- Cashew Butter: 3 tablespoons
- Pecans: 20 pieces
- Flaky Sea Salt: Optional
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Brownie Base
Start by creating the rich and fudgy brownie layer:
- Blend the nuts: In a food processor, pulse the walnuts or pecans until finely ground. Be careful not to overprocess, or they might turn into nut butter.
- Add cocoa powder and salt: Toss in the cocoa powder and sea salt. Blend until everything combines.
- Incorporate the dates: Gradually add the Medjool dates. If the dates are too dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain before using. Blend until a sticky dough forms.
- Mix in the cashew butter: Add cashew butter and pulse until the mixture sticks together.
- Press into a pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. Firmly press the brownie mixture into the base. Place it in the refrigerator while you work on the caramel layer.
2. Make the Caramel Layer
This creamy, gooey caramel is the heart of your brownies:
- Blend the dates: Add the pitted dates to a high-speed blender. Process until they form a smooth paste.
- Combine other ingredients: Add maple syrup, cashew butter, coconut milk, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Blend until silky smooth.
- Melt the coconut oil: Gently melt the coconut oil, then add it to the mixture. Blend again until fully incorporated.
- Spread the caramel: Pour the caramel over the chilled brownie base. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Chill in the freezer for 30 minutes to firm up.
3. Create the Chocolate Topping
Now, it’s time to top your brownies with a glossy layer of chocolate:
- Melt the chocolate: In a double boiler or microwave, melt the dark chocolate until smooth. Stir in the cashew butter for added creaminess.
- Pour over caramel: Spread the melted chocolate over the firm caramel layer.
- Decorate with pecans: Arrange pecans on top, pressing them gently into the chocolate. Sprinkle flaky sea salt for an extra burst of flavor.
- Chill again: Place the pan in the refrigerator for 1 hour or until the chocolate hardens completely.
Final Touches and Serving
Once the layers have set, remove the brownies from the pan by lifting the parchment paper. Use a sharp knife to slice them into squares. For clean cuts, warm the knife under hot water and wipe it dry between slices.
Serve these vegan caramel brownies at room temperature to enjoy their full flavor and texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or in the freezer for up to three months.
Tips for Success
- Choose the right dates: Soft, fresh Medjool dates work best for this recipe. If your dates are on the dry side, soaking them in warm water can restore their moisture.
- Customize your nuts: While walnuts and pecans are classic choices, almonds or hazelnuts also work well.
- Go for quality chocolate: Use a high-quality vegan dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for the best flavor.
Why You’ll Love These Vegan Caramel Brownies
These brownies are not only indulgent but also:
- Dairy-free and gluten-free: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
- Naturally sweetened: Dates and maple syrup provide sweetness without refined sugar.
- Rich in healthy fats: Walnuts, pecans, and cashew butter make these brownies a satisfying treat.
- Easy to prepare: With simple steps, you can create a dessert that rivals any bakery offering.
