Description
This Easy Vegan Caramel Sauce is a quick and delicious dairy-free topping made using coconut milk, coconut sugar, and a natural thickener. Perfect for adding a rich, caramel flavor to desserts, drinks, and snacks, it is ready in just 5 minutes and can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
Ingredients
Caramel Sauce Ingredients
- 13.5 oz can full fat or lite coconut milk
- 1 cup coconut sugar (or substitute organic cane sugar)
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt (add more for salted caramel)
- 2 tablespoons arrowroot powder or cornstarch
- ¼ cup unsweetened non-dairy milk of choice
Instructions
- Mix coconut milk, coconut sugar, and salt: In a small nonstick saucepan, combine the canned coconut milk, coconut sugar, and sea salt.
- Heat and dissolve sugar: Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk constantly until the sugar has completely dissolved, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Prepare thickening mixture: Whisk the arrowroot powder or cornstarch with the unsweetened non-dairy milk until fully dissolved and smooth.
- Add thickener and cook: Add the thickener mixture to the saucepan, whisk to incorporate, then continue to cook for 3 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the caramel sauce thickens to a desirable consistency.
- Cool the sauce: Pour the caramel sauce into a jar and allow it to cool for a few minutes before using or storing.
- Store in refrigerator: Keep the caramel sauce refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Adjust consistency if needed: If the sauce becomes too thick after refrigeration, stir in a small amount of non-dairy milk and whisk or shake to loosen. Applying gentle heat also helps to restore a smooth consistency.
Notes
- Full fat coconut milk provides richer flavor and creaminess, but lite coconut milk can be used for a lighter option.
- Coconut sugar adds a subtle caramel flavor; organic cane sugar works as a substitute if preferred.
- Sea salt amount can be adjusted to create salted or sweeter caramel according to taste.
- Arrowroot powder yields a glossy finish, while cornstarch is a common thickener alternative.
- Unsweetened non-dairy milk can be almond, soy, oat, or any preferred variety based on dietary needs.
- Store the sauce in a tightly sealed jar to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of fridge odors.
- Gentle reheating or addition of non-dairy milk can help maintain ideal pourable consistency after chilling.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-6 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
