Description
These Healthy Caramel Pecan Brownies are a no-bake, vegan treat packed with natural sweetness from medjool dates and a rich nutty flavor from walnuts, hazelnuts, pecan butter, and pecans. Topped with a smooth salted caramel layer and crunchy chopped pecans, these brownies are perfect for a wholesome dessert that requires minimal prep time and no oven baking.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Base
- 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 preferred)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon almond milk
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Salted Caramel Topping
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- Sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Base: Combine all brownie base ingredients—medjool dates, walnuts, hazelnuts, cacao powder, pecan butter, maple syrup, almond milk, and coconut oil—in a food processor. Process until the mixture reaches a sticky, brownie-like consistency. Press the mixture evenly into a prepared pan to form the brownie layer.
- Make the Salted Caramel Topping: Stir together the salted caramel ingredients until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the brownie base layer in the pan. Then scatter the chopped pecans on top to add texture and enhance the nutty flavor.
- Freeze to Set: Place the brownie pan into the freezer for the mixture to firm up completely. This chilling step helps the brownies to solidify without baking.
- Add Final Touch and Serve: Once the brownies are set, sprinkle sea salt over the top to balance the sweetness with a touch of saltiness. Slice the brownies into squares and serve. For best texture, thaw brownies for about 10 minutes before enjoying.
- Storage: Store the brownies in the freezer in an airtight container. Thaw for 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Notes
- This recipe is completely vegan and gluten-free.
- You can substitute pecan butter with almond butter if desired.
- Ensure dates are soft for easier processing; soak in warm water if needed.
- Brownies are best stored frozen to maintain their shape and texture.
- Adjust the amount of sea salt sprinkled on top to your taste preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Vegan brownies, no-bake dessert, healthy brownies, caramel pecan brownies, gluten-free dessert, raw brownies
