If you’ve ever craved the luxuriously rich and buttery flavor of caramel but want to keep it vegan and dairy-free, this coconut caramel sauce recipe vegan is exactly what you need. Combining the tropical sweetness of coconut milk with the deep, golden notes of caramelized coconut sugar, this sauce is a game-changer for desserts, breakfast treats, and even savory dishes that could use a touch of sweetness.
It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of wholesome ingredients and minimal prep time.
Perfect for drizzling over ice cream, pancakes, or fresh fruit, this sauce captures all the indulgence of traditional caramel without any animal products. Plus, it’s gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and naturally creamy thanks to coconut milk.
Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply looking to try something new, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This coconut caramel sauce is a dream come true for anyone who loves a rich, gooey topping but wants to avoid dairy. The use of coconut sugar instead of refined white sugar gives it a deep, complex flavor that’s slightly nutty and less sweet than traditional caramel.
Coconut milk adds a velvety texture that makes the sauce irresistibly smooth.
It’s also incredibly versatile. Use it as a dip for apple slices, drizzle it over your favorite vegan ice cream, or swirl it into coffee for a sweet pick-me-up.
And because it’s made with simple, natural ingredients, you can feel good about indulging.
Best of all, this sauce comes together in about 10 minutes, making it a quick and easy addition for last-minute desserts or snacks.
Ingredients
- 1 cup coconut sugar (unrefined for best flavor)
- 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk (shake well before measuring)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar for extra sweetness
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Heatproof bowl (for cooling)
- Glass jar or container for storing the sauce
Instructions
- Heat the coconut sugar: Place the coconut sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon or spatula to prevent burning. The sugar will begin to melt and clump together.
- Add coconut milk: Slowly pour in the coconut milk while stirring constantly. This will create a bubbling mixture. Keep stirring until the sugar completely dissolves into the milk, forming a smooth syrup. This usually takes 3-5 minutes.
- Incorporate coconut oil: Add the melted coconut oil to the saucepan and continue stirring until fully combined. The oil adds richness and helps achieve a creamy texture.
- Add vanilla and salt: Stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt. These ingredients enhance the caramel flavor and balance the sweetness.
- Simmer gently: Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cools.
- Test consistency: Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. The sauce will thicken more as it cools. If it becomes too thick, gently reheat and add a splash of coconut milk to loosen it.
- Store and serve: Pour the caramel sauce into a glass jar or container. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Reheat gently before serving.
Tips & Variations
For a nuttier flavor, try adding a teaspoon of almond or cashew butter into the sauce just before simmering.
If you prefer a thinner sauce for drizzling, add more coconut milk a tablespoon at a time while reheating.
Feel free to swap coconut sugar with organic brown sugar if you don’t have coconut sugar on hand, though the flavor will be slightly different. For a saltier caramel, increase the sea salt to 1/2 teaspoon or sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before serving.
For a spiced version, add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom during the simmering stage. This adds an exotic twist perfect for autumn or winter desserts.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per 2 Tbsp Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 120 |
Fat | 7g |
Saturated Fat | 6g |
Carbohydrates | 14g |
Sugar | 12g |
Protein | 0g |
Fiber | 0g |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan coconut caramel sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
- Drizzle over vegan ice cream or sorbets for an indulgent treat.
- Pour it over pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a tropical twist on breakfast.
- Use it as a dip for fresh fruit like apple slices, bananas, or pineapple chunks.
- Mix it into your morning oatmeal or smoothie bowls for added sweetness and creaminess.
- Spread it over vegan brownies or cakes as a decadent glaze.
- Add a spoonful to your coffee or hot chocolate for a caramel-flavored beverage.
Conclusion
Creating a luscious, dairy-free caramel sauce doesn’t have to be complicated, and this coconut caramel sauce recipe vegan proves just that. With simple pantry ingredients and minimal effort, you can make a sauce that’s rich, smooth, and bursting with natural coconut sweetness.
It’s an excellent way to elevate your desserts, breakfasts, or even snacks while keeping your diet plant-based and wholesome.
Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite staple. Plus, once you have this sauce on hand, the possibilities are endless!
For more creative vegan recipes, check out Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe, Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe, or try your hand at the Passover Zucchini Kugel Recipe for a savory complement to your sweet creations.
📖 Recipe Card: Coconut Caramel Sauce (Vegan)
Description: A rich and creamy vegan caramel sauce made with coconut milk and coconut sugar. Perfect for drizzling over desserts or ice cream.
Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT20M
Servings: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 3/4 cup coconut sugar
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry, optional)
Instructions
- Combine coconut milk and coconut sugar in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir until sugar dissolves and mixture begins to simmer.
- Add coconut oil and sea salt, stirring until melted and combined.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry (optional).
- Slowly whisk slurry into the sauce to thicken, if desired.
- Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and maple syrup.
- Let cool slightly before serving or storing.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 | Protein: 1g | Fat: 10g | Carbs: 18g
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