There’s something about fall that makes caramel apples feel absolutely essential, right? Gooey, sticky, a little nostalgic… they just belong next to cozy sweaters and crisp leaves.
But the store-bought ones? Between the dairy-loaded caramel, the questionable ingredients, and the nut toppings (a big nope in my house), they’re definitely off the table.
So classic mom move I just made my own. I cracked the cider-mill-donut dilemma, and now we’re tackling caramel apples. And honestly? These turned out shockingly close to the real deal… maybe even better because you know exactly what’s in them.
Let’s Make That Dairy-Free Caramel Magic
Start with soaking 1 cup of dates in water for about an hour. Don’t forget to remove the pits learn from my chaos.
Soak ¼ cup of raisins too. Once both are plump and soft, drain the water and toss everything into your blender or food processor.
Add:
- 1 tablespoon of almond or coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons of Sunbutter or almond butter
- A splash of vanilla
- A teeny pinch of sea salt
Now blend… and keep blending. This isn’t an instant-smooth situation, it takes time. You might need an extra splash of milk, and definitely pause to scrape down the sides. You’re aiming for a thick, spreadable caramel, not a smoothie.
While your caramel is working its way into creaminess, go ahead and slide popsicle sticks into your apples. They’ll look adorable already.
When the caramel hits that glossy, spreadable stage, oh yes, coat those apples generously.
Make Them Your Own
You can enjoy them just like that, or roll them in extra goodies. Think:
- Ground flax
- Coconut flakes
- Dairy-free chocolate chips
- Sunflower seeds
- Or whatever fall-inspired topping your heart dreams up
I went for salty sunflower seeds and dairy-free mini chocolate chips… perfection.
Here’s the funny part: my kids won’t touch raisins or dates on their own. Not a chance. But did they devour these caramel apples? Absolutely. Zero clue what the caramel was made of, and they loved every bite.
DEEE-LICIOUS.
P.S. This recipe was husband-approved too. I have photographic evidence… but I’m saving it for future bargaining power. 😉
Now tell me, what would you roll your caramel apples in?