No-Bake Chocolate Almond Caramel Squares
You’ll fall in love with this rich, decadent and delicious healthy dessert or snack. These Chocolate Almond Caramel Squares are vegan, refined sugar-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Chill Time 30 minutes mins
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine Gluten-Free, Plant-based, Raw Vegan
CHOCOLATE ALMOND BASE:
- ⅓ cup almond butter
- 2 Tbsp coconut nectar or maple syrup, I used coconut nectar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup almonds, about 2.3 oz or 65 grams
- 3 Tbsp cacao powder
- 2 Tbsp oat flour
ALMOND BUTTER CARAMEL:
- ⅓ cup almond butter
- 3 Tbsp coconut nectar or maple syrup, I used coconut nectar
- 2 Tbsp coconut oil
- ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
CHOCOLATE TOPPING:
- 2 oz or 60 grams of chocolate, roughly chopped - you can use sugar-free
CHOCOLATE ALMOND BASE:
In a medium bowl, whisk together almond butter, coconut nectar or maple syrup and vanilla extract until well combined.
Add almonds to a blender or food processor and pulse until a coarse flour forms. A few almond pieces are okay.
Add almonds, cacao powder and oat flour to the almond butter mixture. Stir until well combined, the texture should be similar to cookie dough.
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a parchment-lined loaf pan, you can use your fingers, a spatula or the bottom of a measuring cup. Place in the freezer to set while you make the rest.
ALMOND BUTTER CARAMEL:
In a small saucepan, over medium heat, whisk together the almond butter, coconut nectar or maple syrup, coconut oil and vanilla extract until the caramel starts to just slightly bubble. Remove from the heat.
Remove the pan from the freezer and pour the almond butter caramel on top of the chocolate almond base. If necessary, use a spatula to spread it onto an even layer. Return to the freezer for 15 – 20 minutes to firm up.
CHOCOLATE TOPPING:
To melt the chocolate, place the chocolate in the microwave for 30 seconds on medium power. Stir and repeat until 70 – 80 % of the chocolate is melted, the rest will melt as you stir. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, it will ruin the taste and texture.
Remove the pan from the freezer and pour the melted chocolate on top. Use a spatula to spread it onto an even layer. Place the pan back in the freezer for about 10 minutes or until the chocolate is set.
Once fully set, remove from the freezer and cut into squares.
Store any leftovers in the fridge for a quick and delicious treat anytime. Enjoy them straight from the fridge (not frozen) or at room temperature (but be careful, if the weather is too hot, the caramel might start to melt).
Keyword almonds, caramel, chocolate, healthy desserts, healthy snack, no bake desserts, vegan sweets