Caramel Honeycrisp Apples with Dates and Coconut Milk Recipe

Introduction

This Caramel Honeycrisp sauce is a naturally sweet and creamy treat made entirely from wholesome ingredients. Using honeycrisp apples and medjool dates, it captures the essence of caramel without any added sugar. Perfect as a dip, spread, or dessert topping, this recipe brings cozy flavors to your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs honeycrisp apples (stem & core removed and roughly chopped)
• 1 cup medjool dates (pitted and roughly chopped)
• 1 cup water
• 3 Tbsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2-1 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup canned coconut milk (lite or full fat)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Combine the chopped apples, dates, water, vanilla extract, and cinnamon in the slow cooker.
2. Step 2: Cook on high heat for 3-4 hours or on low heat for 6-8 hours until the mixture is soft and cooked through.
3. Step 3: Carefully transfer the slow cooker contents to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until completely smooth.
4. Step 4: Stir in the salt and canned coconut milk until fully incorporated and creamy.

Tips & Variations

• Adjust the salt to taste, starting with less and adding more if needed to balance the sweetness.
• Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer and creamier texture.
• Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warming spice twist.
• Substitute honeycrisp apples with Fuji or Gala apples if unavailable.

Storage

Store the caramel honeycrisp sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain smoothness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the mixture on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until the apples are soft, which may take about an hour.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally vegan and gluten-free as it contains no animal products or gluten ingredients.

Caramel Honeycrisp Apples with Dates and Coconut Milk Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 88 reviews

This Caramel Honeycrisp recipe transforms sweet honeycrisp apples into a luscious, caramel-like apple puree using natural sweetness from medjool dates and a hint of cinnamon. Cooked slowly in a slow cooker, blended to smooth perfection, and enriched with creamy coconut milk, this comforting and vegan-friendly dessert sauce can be enjoyed on its own or as a topping for various treats.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: About 4 cups 1x
• Category: Sauce
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fruit

• 3 lbs honeycrisp apples (stem & core removed and roughly chopped)
• 1 cup medjool dates (pitted and roughly chopped)

Liquids and Flavorings

• 1 cup water
• 3 Tbsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2–1 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup canned coconut milk (lite or full fat)

Instructions

1. Prepare the slow cooker: Combine the chopped honeycrisp apples, medjool dates, water, vanilla extract, and cinnamon in the slow cooker. Ensure the ingredients are evenly mixed to allow even cooking.
2. Cook the mixture: Set the slow cooker to high heat and cook for 3-4 hours, or set to low heat and cook for 6-8 hours. The apples and dates should become very soft and ready to puree.
3. Puree the apple mixture: Carefully transfer the cooked mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker. Puree until the mixture is completely smooth and no lumps remain, creating a silky caramel-like texture.
4. Finish the caramel sauce: Stir in the salt and canned coconut milk to the smooth apple puree. Adjust salt to taste and mix until fully combined, enriching the sauce with creamy coconut flavor.

Notes

• For a thinner caramel sauce, add extra water while blending.
• Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer texture and flavor.
• This sauce is vegan, gluten-free, and free from added sugars.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Great as a topping for ice cream, pancakes, or oatmeal.

Keywords: caramel sauce, honeycrisp apples, slow cooker recipe, vegan caramel, natural sweetener, date caramel, apple puree