Coconut Milk Caramels Recipe Vegan and Delicious Treats

Who doesn’t love the rich, buttery taste of caramel? Now, imagine that same luscious flavor combined with the creamy, tropical essence of coconut milk—all in a delightful vegan treat!

This coconut milk caramels recipe (vegan) is a game-changer for anyone who craves sweet, chewy candies without compromising on plant-based ingredients. Whether you’re vegan, dairy-intolerant, or just looking to try something new and delicious, these caramels are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Using simple pantry staples, this recipe delivers decadent caramels with a smooth texture and a subtle hint of coconut that makes every bite unforgettable. Plus, it’s a fun and rewarding project to make at home, perfect for gifting or treating yourself.

Let’s dive into the magic of creating vegan caramels that melt in your mouth and leave you wanting more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

First off, this recipe is completely vegan, which means it skips traditional dairy but keeps all the indulgent creamy goodness. Thanks to full-fat coconut milk, you get a natural richness that mimics the dairy-based caramel texture perfectly.

No need for expensive or hard-to-find ingredients—everything you need is simple and accessible.

The caramels are soft yet chewy, with a delicate balance of sweetness and a slight hint of sea salt that enhances the coconut flavor. They’re also free from refined sugars if you opt for coconut sugar, making them a slightly healthier alternative for caramel lovers.

Plus, they’re incredibly versatile: customize them with vanilla, sea salt, or even a splash of rum for a grown-up twist.

If you love homemade sweets and want a treat that’s both comforting and unique, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. It’s also perfect for holidays, parties, or whenever you need a little cozy indulgence!

Ingredients

• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk (shake well before measuring)
• 1 cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar for a less intense coconut flavor)
• 1/4 cup coconut oil (solid, not melted)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (for natural sweetness and chewiness)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp sea salt (plus extra for sprinkling)
• Optional: 1 tbsp rum or bourbon (for a boozy caramel flavor)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with heavy bottom
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Candy thermometer (highly recommended for perfect texture)
• 8×8 inch square baking pan or a similar-sized dish
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Knife for cutting caramels
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Prepare your pan: Line the baking pan with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, leaving some overhang for easy caramel removal later. Set aside.
2. Combine ingredients: In the medium saucepan, add the full-fat coconut milk, coconut sugar, coconut oil, and maple syrup. Whisk gently to combine everything evenly.
3. Heat the mixture: Place the pan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Attach your candy thermometer to the side of the pan, ensuring it doesn’t touch the bottom.
4. Cook to temperature: Continue stirring and cooking until the mixture reaches 245°F (118°C), known as the firm ball stage. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Be patient and keep stirring to avoid burning.
5. Add flavorings: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, sea salt, and if using, the rum or bourbon. Mix well to incorporate.
6. Pour and cool: Immediately pour the hot caramel into your prepared pan, spreading evenly. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top for that perfect sweet-salty balance.
7. Set the caramels: Allow the caramels to cool at room temperature for at least 4 hours or until fully firm. You can also refrigerate them to speed up the process, but room temp yields the best texture.
8. Cut and serve: Lift the caramel slab out using the parchment overhang and transfer to a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut into 1-inch squares or your desired size.
9. Store: Store the caramels in an airtight container, separated by parchment, either at room temperature or in the fridge for longer freshness.

Tips & Variations

Tip: Using a candy thermometer is key to achieving the perfect chewy texture. Without it, you risk ending up with too soft or too hard caramels.

Tip: If you want a creamier caramel, use full-fat coconut cream instead of coconut milk, but reduce the coconut oil by half to balance the fat content.

Variation: For a chocolate twist, drizzle melted vegan dark chocolate over the cooled caramels or mix in cocoa powder before cooking.

Variation: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm spice flavor, perfect for cozy fall treats.

Storage: Keep caramels wrapped individually in parchment paper for easy snacking and gifting.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegan coconut milk caramels make a fantastic gift when wrapped in colorful parchment paper and tied with twine. They’re perfect for holiday gift baskets or a sweet surprise for friends and family.

Enjoy them as a standalone treat with a cup of black coffee or herbal tea to balance their sweetness. For a decadent dessert experience, chop the caramels and sprinkle over vegan ice cream or blend into smoothies for a rich caramel flavor.

If you want to get creative, use these caramels as a filling for vegan chocolates or layer them in desserts like brownies or bars for an extra burst of flavor and chew.

Conclusion

This coconut milk caramels recipe vegan is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy classic caramel flavor without dairy. The combination of coconut milk, coconut sugar, and maple syrup creates a luscious, chewy candy that’s both indulgent and plant-based.

Not only is this recipe simple and straightforward, but it also opens the door to many variations, allowing you to tailor your caramels to your taste. Whether you keep them plain and salted or add unique twists like chocolate or spices, you’ll find these caramels are a delightful treat for yourself or a thoughtful homemade gift.

Feeling inspired? Check out other delicious recipes to complement your sweet treats, like Pecan Crackers Recipe, Personalized Recipe Book Stand, and the delightful Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe.

Happy cooking and happy snacking!

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