Description
This rich and creamy Vegan Caramel Sauce is made with full-fat coconut cream and a touch of vanilla for a luscious, dairy-free treat. Perfect for drizzling over desserts or stirring into coffee, this simple recipe delivers authentic caramel flavor without any dairy or refined ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramel Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200g) or coconut sugar (see notes)
- 1 cup room temperature full fat coconut cream
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 large pinch sea salt (about ⅛ tsp)
Instructions
- Warm the Coconut Cream: If you are making caramel for the first time or want more reliable results, heat the coconut cream in the microwave for about 1 minute until warm. This helps it incorporate smoothly later.
- Heat the Sugar: Add the granulated sugar to a medium heavy-bottom pot or a large, deep skillet. Spread the sugar evenly and begin heating over medium heat for 2-5 minutes until the edges start to caramelize. Do not stir during this initial heating.
- Melt the Sugar: Once the edges caramelize, reduce heat to medium-low. Using a spatula, gently push the sugar from the edges toward the center to help it melt evenly without crystallizing. Continue for another 3-5 minutes until the sugar is melted and amber-colored.
- Add Coconut Cream: Remove the pot from heat temporarily. Pour in the room temperature coconut cream slowly; the mixture will bubble vigorously for 20-30 seconds. Once bubbling calms, stir the mixture and return it to low heat.
- Simmer and Smooth: Simmer the sauce for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally. If any sugar solidifies when adding the coconut cream, keep heating gently until fully melted and smooth.
- Season and Finish: Remove from heat. Stir in the pure vanilla extract and sea salt to enhance the caramel flavor.
- Cool and Store: Transfer the sauce into a heat-proof container and allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover and store in the refrigerator. The sauce will thicken significantly when chilled.
Notes
- Using coconut sugar will yield a darker caramel with a slightly different flavor—adjust heat carefully to avoid burning.
- Make sure the coconut cream is full fat for the best creamy texture.
- If sugar crystallizes during melting, wiping the pan edges with a wet brush can help prevent this.
- The sauce thickens as it cools, so you can thin it with a splash of coconut milk if needed before using.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
Keywords: vegan caramel sauce, coconut cream caramel, dairy-free caramel, vegan dessert sauce, coconut sugar caramel
