Homemade Vegan Caramel Recipe (Sweet And Smooth Treat)

Searching for the perfect vegan caramel recipe can often be daunting. Many recipes need more flavor or have complicated steps that take the joy out of cooking. I remember my frustrations, balancing health-conscious choices and indulging my sweet tooth. 

That’s when I decided to take matters into my own hands. I discovered a foolproof way to create a rich, indulgent vegan caramel by experimenting with different ingredients and methods.

This recipe satisfies those sugary cravings in a simple, straightforward manner. It’s a homemade solution that combines the best of both worlds: deliciousness and health-conscious eating.

What Is Vegan Caramel?

Vegan caramel is a delightful alternative to traditional caramel, made without animal products. Instead of using plant butter and cream, this version relies on plant-based ingredients like coconut milk, almond butter, and maple syrup to achieve its rich, creamy texture and deep, golden brown color.

Frequently sought after for its ability to cater to dairy-free and vegan diets, vegan caramel is great for drizzling over desserts, stirring into coffee, or simply enjoying it as a sweet treat. It offers a guilt-free solution for those looking to enjoy the indulgent taste of caramel while adhering to a vegan lifestyle.

Quick Fact – Vegan caramel, made from coconut cream and brown sugar, offers a dairy-free, indulgent treat that perfectly mimics traditional caramel’s rich buttery flavor without any animal products.

Recipe Directions

• Combine Simple Ingredients: In a small saucepan or medium pot, combine the coconut cream, brown sugar, and cornstarch. It’s better to mix the cornstarch with a small amount of coconut cream first to avoid lumps.
• Heat Mixture: Place the pan over medium-high heat. Stir constantly to ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved and the coconut cream melts smoothly.
• Simmer: As the mixture bubbles and almost foam, reduce the heat to a simmer. This step is crucial for achieving the right thickness and flavor. Continue to stir frequently for about 5 minutes. If you’re opting for salted caramel, this is the time to add a pinch of salt.
• Cooling: Remove the pan from the heat. If you prefer the caramel runny, you can use it immediately. Let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes for a thicker consistency. It will thicken considerably as it cools.
• Storage: For later use, store the caramel in a covered glass container in the refrigerator. Knowing that the caramel will continue to thicken when cooled is helpful. Please stir it each time before use. The caramel will be kept for about a week.

Variations, Add-Ons, & Toppings

Variations

• Coconut Milk Caramel: Use full-fat coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture.
• Date Caramel: Blend dates with water and vanilla for a whole-food version.
• Almond Butter Caramel: Mix almond butter with maple syrup for a nutty twist.

Add-Ons

• Sea Salt: A sprinkle of sea salt enhances the sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and aroma to the caramel.
• Lemon Juice: A few drops can balance the sweetness with a slight tanginess.

Toppings

• Chopped Nuts: Pecans, walnuts, or almonds add crunch.
• Vegan Chocolate Chips: Mix or sprinkle on top for a decadent treat.
• Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut flakes offer a delightful texture and flavor contrast.

Vegetable Substitutions 

• Mushrooms: Great for replacing meat due to their umami flavor and meaty texture. Portobello mushrooms are perfect for burgers, while shiitake or cremini work well in stir-fries and stews.
• Cauliflower: A versatile substitute for meats, rice, and even pizza crusts. Roasted cauliflower can mimic chicken or beef in curries.
• Lentils: Ideal for ground meat replacements in tacos, bolognese, or meatloaf. They’re protein-rich and offer a satisfying texture.
• Jackfruit: Its texture resembles shredded meat, making it a sought-after choice for vegan pulled pork and chicken recipes.
• Eggplant: With its meaty texture, eggplant is great for lasagna, moussaka, or as a meat substitute in Asian dishes.
• Chickpeas: Excellent for adding protein to salads, making meat-free patties, or as a tuna salad alternative.
• Sweet Potatoes: Their versatility makes them ideal for burgers, toast toppings, or even as a base in vegan baking.

Quick Tip – For a creamier vegan sauce or soup, blend soaked cashews with water. This trick creates a rich, smooth base that is perfect for dairy-free recipes.

Best Side Dishes

1. Apple Slices Fresh or baked, apples and caramel are a classic combination.
2. Vegan Ice Cream Drizzle caramel over your favorite vegan ice cream for a decadent treat.
3. Banana Bread A slice of homemade banana bread topped with vegan caramel sauce recipe is irresistible.
4. Popcorn Toss popcorn with vegan caramel for a sweet and salty snack.
5. Vegan Brownies Elevate vegan brownies by swirling in or topping them with caramel.
6. Pancakes And Waffles A morning delight when served with a generous drizzle of vegan caramel.
7. Fruit Salad A drizzle of caramel over a mixed fruit salad can add a surprising twist.
8. Roasted Nuts Caramel-coated nuts make for a crunchy, sweet snack.
9. Vegan Cheesecake Adding caramel sauce to vegan cheesecake enhances its flavor and presentation.
10. Baked Pears Or Peaches Serve these fruits warm with vegan caramel for a comforting dessert.

How To Serve?

• As a Topping: Drizzle over vegan ice cream, pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a sweet finish.
• With Fruit: Dip apple slices, bananas, or strawberries in caramel for a healthy, indulgent snack.
• In Desserts: Swirl into brownies cheesecakes, or add as a layer in parfaits.
• As a Sauce: Serve alongside vegan desserts like cakes or puddings for extra moisture and flavor.
• In Beverages: Mix into hot or iced coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a caramel twist.
• On Popcorn: Toss popcorn with caramel and a pinch of salt for a homemade, sweet, and salty treat.
• In Sandwich Cookies: Use as a filling between two vegan cookies for a delightful treat.
• As a Dip: Combine with a bit of sea salt and serve as a dip for pretzels or vegan pastry sticks.
• In Breakfast Bowls: Drizzle over oatmeal, yogurt bowls, or smoothie bowls for added sweetness.
• In Baking: Incorporate into vegan frosting or glazes for cakes and doughnuts.

Quick Tip – Add a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of sea salt for a quick and flavorful vegan caramel. These simple additions can significantly enhance the taste.

Storage & Make Ahead

• Storage: Once prepared, store vegan caramel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness and consistency.
• Make Ahead: To streamline preparation, make vegan caramel ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for future use. When needed, gently reheat the caramel in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until it reaches desired consistency. This allows for easy incorporation into desserts or as a topping without the need for last-minute preparation.

Recipe Fact: Vegan caramel, effortlessly stored in the fridge or freezer, shines in versatility, ready to transform desserts and drinks with its rich, plant-based sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Vegan Caramel Without Coconut Cream?

Yes, you can make vegan caramel without coconut cream by substituting it with other plant-based milk like almond milk, cashew milk, or soy milk. However, the texture might need to be more creamy. To compensate, you could add a bit more cornstarch or a plant-based vegan butter for richness.

Remember that the flavor will also be slightly different, with coconut cream offering a more distinct taste than other alternatives.

How Can I Store Vegan Caramel, And How Long Will It Last?

Vegan caramel should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When stored properly, it can last for about a week. If you notice any odd smell, taste, or mold, it’s best to discard it.

You can freeze the caramel for up to 3 months for longer storage. Thaw in the refrigerator before using, and stir well if separation occurs.

Can I Use Vegan Caramel In Baking?

Absolutely! Vegan caramel is great for baking and can be used in various recipes, including cakes, brownies, cookies, and bars. It can serve as a filling, a drizzle, or even be mixed into batter.

Be cautious with baking times, as caramel can burn at high temperatures. It’s often better to add it towards the end of the baking process or use it as a topping after baking.

Why Is My Vegan Caramel Grainy?

Graininess in vegan caramel can result from the white sugar melts. This often happens if the sugar isn’t fully dissolved before increasing the heat or if the caramel is stirred too vigorously once it boils.

To prevent this, ensure the sugar is completely dissolved at a lower heat, and avoid stirring the caramel once it starts to boil. Adding a bit of acid, like lemon juice, can also help prevent crystallization.

Is Vegan Caramel Healthier Than Regular Caramel?

Vegan caramel can be considered healthier than traditional caramel in some aspects, especially if you’re avoiding dairy products or looking for plant-based options.

It’s cholesterol-free and typically contains less saturated fat, depending on the ingredients used. However, it’s still high in sugar, so moderation is key.

Using unrefined sugars or natural sweeteners can make it a slightly healthier option, but it’s still best consumed in small quantities as part of a balanced diet.