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Exquisite Salted Date Caramel Candies

These healthy, homemade candies transform Medjool dates into luxurious caramel-like treats. By blending dates with apple cider vinegar and salt, you create a rich, caramel flavor without any added sugar.
Prep Time15 minutes
Total Time1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack, Sweet
Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Healthy, Vegan
Keyword: dessert, Healthy
Servings: 36 pieces
Author: Shelly

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • Baking paper or candy wrappers
  • Casserole dish

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Medjool dates - preferably unpitted
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon coarse salt

Instructions

  • As you remove the stem and pit each date, check the center carefully for mold—discard any that show signs of spoilage. Make sure you don't leave any pits in or behind. Chop them roughly and put in a food processor with the rest of the ingredients. Pulse a couple of times —this makes it easier on the food processor and helps you catch any missed pits. It happened to me before. Process until pasty and smooth.
  • If the mixture sticks to your fingers, add 1 tablespoon extra oil.
  • Brush baking or parchment paper with olive oil. Put the date caramel in a 6"x9" or 7"x7" casserole dish. Using a spatula, flatten the caramel evenly on the paper. The layer should be at least half an inch thick. Cover gently with another baking sheet and put in the freezer for 1 hour.
  • Meanwhile, prepare wrappers. Cut parchment or baking paper into 3" x 2" rectangles.
  • Brush a bread knife with oil. Cut the caramel into 1.5" x 0.5" rectangles. Wrap each candy with a wrapper and roll the sides to seal. Store in a box in the refrigerator. Eat as is or topped with any toasted nut you like.

Notes

A few notes before you make these delightful caramels:
  • Use unpitted Medjool dates and pit them yourself. Pitted dates are usually not as moist and gooey as unpitted.
  • You can either make the caramel wrappers by cutting a large parchment sheet into small rectangles or buy them on Amazon. 
  • Don't tell your "customers" that they're made with dates. Wait until you hear "Wow, those are delicious!"