3-Ingredient Vanilla Date Caramel Recipe
Introduction
This 3-Ingredient Vanilla Date Caramel is a naturally sweet and creamy sauce that’s perfect for drizzling over desserts or stirring into your favorite snacks. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional caramel.

Ingredients
- 10 large medjool dates, pits removed
- 1/4 cup coconut cream (solid part only)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Pit the dates and place them in a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup. Cover with water and microwave for 2 minutes to soften.
- Step 2: Drain the dates and transfer them to a food processor or high-speed blender. Add the coconut cream and vanilla extract.
- Step 3: Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides for an even texture.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh medjool dates for the best natural sweetness and texture.
- For a nuttier flavor, add a pinch of sea salt or a splash of almond milk while blending.
- Try substituting coconut cream with cashew cream for a different but equally creamy result.
Storage
Store the caramel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The coconut cream may cause the caramel to firm up; allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before using.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of dates?
Medjool dates work best because they are soft and sweet, but you can use other dates if they are fresh and moist. If your dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 10–15 minutes before blending.
Is this caramel suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this caramel is completely vegan, using only plant-based ingredients like dates and coconut cream.
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3-Ingredient Vanilla Date Caramel Recipe
- Total Time: 7 minutes
- Yield: About 3/4 cup 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A simple and delicious 3-ingredient vanilla date caramel made with medjool dates, coconut cream, and pure vanilla extract. This naturally sweet, creamy caramel is perfect as a dairy-free, refined sugar-free topping or dip, offering a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional caramel sauces.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 10 large medjool dates, pits removed
- 1/4 cup coconut cream (solid part only)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Dates: Pit the medjool dates and place them in a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup. Cover with water to soften them before blending.
- Microwave Soften: Microwave the dates covered in water for 2 minutes to further soften and hydrate them, making blending easier.
- Drain Dates: Drain the water from the softened dates thoroughly to prevent the caramel from being too watery.
- Blend Ingredients: Add the drained dates, coconut cream, and vanilla extract to a food processor or high-speed blender. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides for an even consistency.
- Store Properly: Transfer the vanilla date caramel to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, but if chilled, the coconut cream may harden. Allow it to sit at room temperature before using to soften.
Notes
- Using medjool dates ensures natural sweetness and a soft texture ideal for caramel.
- Coconut cream should be the solid part separated from the liquid coconut milk for best results.
- If the caramel hardens after refrigeration, simply let it sit at room temperature to soften before using.
- This caramel can be used as a dip, spread, or topping for desserts, fruits, toast, and more.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Sauce / Topping
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Vegan, Dairy-Free
Keywords: vanilla date caramel, dairy-free caramel, vegan caramel sauce, natural sweetener, healthy caramel, coconut cream caramel

