Dessert

Healthy Caramel Pecan Brownies (No-Bake, Vegan) Recipe

ByHarper Ellington November 5, 2025November 5, 2025

Introduction

These Healthy Caramel Pecan Brownies are a no-bake, vegan treat that combines rich, natural sweetness with a satisfying crunch. Perfect for when you want an indulgent dessert without turning on the oven.

The image shows nine square pieces of a two-layer dessert placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is thick, dense, and dark brown, resembling a fudgy chocolate base, while the top layer is lighter brown and smoother, looking like a nut-flavored or caramel layer. The top layer is decorated with scattered pecan halves and small salt flakes, adding texture and color contrast. One piece is separated and slightly tilted to show the clear distinction between the dark bottom layer and the lighter top layer. Loose pecan nuts are scattered around the squares on the white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups pitted medjool dates
1 cup walnuts
1/2 cup hazelnuts
1/4 cup cacao powder
1/2 cup pecan butter (substitute almond butter if desired)
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 tablespoon almond milk
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1/2 cup chopped pecans
Sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

Step 1: In a food processor, combine medjool dates, walnuts, hazelnuts, cacao powder, pecan butter, maple syrup, almond milk, and coconut oil. Process until the mixture reaches a thick, brownie-like consistency.
Step 2: Press the mixture evenly into a prepared pan to form the brownie base.
Step 3: Stir together any remaining ingredients to create the salted caramel layer, then pour it over the brownie base. Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly on top.
Step 4: Freeze the brownie tray until firm. Once set, sprinkle sea salt over the brownies, slice into squares, and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For a different nut flavor, substitute pecan butter with almond or cashew butter.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder to the brownie mix for a subtle, warming spice.
Use vegan dark chocolate chips on top for added texture and richness.

Storage

Store these brownies in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. Thaw for about 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly while maintaining their shape.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a two-layer dessert bar being held by a woman's hand with glossy, light pink nail polish. The bottom layer is thick, dark brown, and fudgy with a rich texture, while the top layer is lighter brown, crumbly, and covered with chopped pecans and a few flakes of salt. In the background, there are two more square bars on a white marbled surface, scattered with pecans. The contrast between the fudgy base, the crumbly top, and the nutty garnish creates a visually appealing treat. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies nut-free?

This recipe relies heavily on nuts for texture and flavor, but you could try replacing nuts and nut butters with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds and seed butter. Keep in mind the texture and taste will change.

Do I need a special pan to make these brownies?

No special pan is needed—any small square or rectangular pan will work. Just line it with parchment paper for easy removal.