These salty chocolate date caramels are rich, chewy, and naturally sweetened, with a smooth date-based caramel center coated in dark chocolate and finished with flaky sea salt. They deliver the indulgence of classic chocolate caramels without the need for butter, cream, or complicated candy-making steps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These caramels are surprisingly easy to make and require no cooking or candy thermometer. The date caramel filling comes together quickly in a food processor and has a deep, toffee-like flavor that pairs beautifully with dark chocolate. They are perfect for gifting, special occasions, or keeping on hand when a sweet craving strikes. The balance of sweet, bitter, and salty makes them feel truly luxurious despite the simple ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup packed soft and pitted Medjool dates (161 grams)
1 tablespoon creamy almond butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon warm water
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
2 1/2 tablespoons almond flour
120 grams dark chocolate, at least 70% cocoa
Flaky sea salt, for finishing

Directions

Add the Medjool dates, almond butter, vanilla extract, warm water, and fine sea salt to a food processor. Blend until completely smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed to ensure an even, creamy texture.

Add the almond flour to the processor and blend again until fully incorporated and the mixture is thick and uniform.

Line a small bread pan or narrow pan with parchment paper lightly greased with a neutral oil. Transfer the date caramel mixture into the pan and smooth the top using a spatula or your hand with another lightly greased piece of parchment paper. Aim for a thickness of about 1/2 inch.

Place the pan in the freezer for 1 hour to firm up.

Once firm, remove the caramel slab from the pan and cut it into 12 equal squares.

Melt or temper the dark chocolate until smooth. Using a fork, dip each caramel square into the chocolate, coating it completely. Tap the fork gently on the side of the bowl to allow excess chocolate to drip off.

Place each coated caramel onto parchment paper. After a few seconds, while the chocolate is still slightly soft, sprinkle the tops with flaky sea salt.

Allow the chocolate to set completely before serving or storing.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 12 caramels.

Prep time is approximately 15 minutes.
Freezing and setting time is about 30 minutes.
Total time is approximately 45 minutes.

Variations

For a nuttier flavor, replace half of the almond butter with tahini or cashew butter.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the date mixture for a deeper, more complex flavor.
Use chopped toasted nuts mixed into the date caramel for added texture.
For a sweeter coating, use a slightly lower percentage dark chocolate while keeping the same weight.

Storage/Reheating

Store the caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week if the chocolate has been properly tempered. If the chocolate was simply melted without tempering, keep the caramels refrigerated for up to 10 days. These caramels do not require reheating and are best enjoyed at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make these caramels without a food processor?

A food processor is recommended for the smoothest texture, but a high-powered blender can work if you stop frequently to scrape down the sides.

Are these caramels vegan?

Yes, they are made without dairy or animal-based ingredients.

What type of dates work best?

Soft Medjool dates are ideal because they blend easily and have a rich caramel-like flavor.

Can I substitute almond flour?

Yes, finely ground oat flour or cashew flour can be used in the same amount.

Do I have to temper the chocolate?

Tempering is optional but helps the chocolate set with a glossy finish and allows the caramels to be stored at room temperature.

Why are my caramels too sticky to cut?

They may need more time in the freezer to firm up before slicing.

Can I freeze these caramels?

Yes, they freeze well for up to 2 months when stored in an airtight container.

What makes these taste like traditional caramels?

The natural sugars in dates create a deep, toffee-like flavor similar to classic caramel.

Can I reduce the salt?

You can reduce or omit the flaky sea salt topping if you prefer a less salty finish.

Are these suitable for gifting?

Yes, they hold their shape well and look elegant when wrapped or boxed.

Conclusion

Salty chocolate date caramels are a simple yet sophisticated treat that proves indulgent sweets do not need complicated techniques. With their chewy center, rich chocolate coating, and touch of sea salt, they are perfect for sharing, gifting, or savoring slowly whenever you want something truly special.

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