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Pumpkin Protein Balls (gluten-free & dairy-free!)

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pumpkin protein balls on a plate with white chocolate drizzled on top.

These pumpkin protein balls were made pretty much just for my pumpkin-loving husband. I have never ever met anyone so obsessed with pumpkin pie than him. And after just one bite of these protein balls he said, “WOW these taste like PUMPKIN PIE!!!” and continued to eat the entire batch in two days… good thing they’re healthy, high in protein, and packed with collagen!

Also, lucky for my husband, his birthday is coming up! SO fitting that the man obsessed with pumpkin has a birthday in October. This year, he’s getting another batch (ehhh maybe a double bath) or these pumpkin protein balls, my gluten-free pumpkin coffee cake, and maybe even a healthy pumpkin spice latte if I’m feeling really generous. Happy almost birthday, my love!

overhead image of pumpkin protein balls on a plate with pumpkin spice on the side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pumpkin protein balls are an easy, healthy snack packed with protein, perfect for on-the-go fuel or a post-workout boost. They’re made with just six simple ingredients, are naturally gluten-free, and can easily be adapted to fit various dietary needs, like being vegan or low carb.

What You Need to Make Pumpkin Protein Balls

  • Cashew Butter (or any nut/seed butter): Acts as the base of the recipe, adding creaminess, richness, and healthy fats.
  • Pumpkin Purée: Brings moisture and that classic fall flavor, while adding a dose of fiber and vitamins.
  • Almond Flour: Provides structure while keeping the recipe gluten-free and low in carbs.
  • Collagen Powder or Protein Powder: Boosts the protein content, but can be replaced with almond flour if you prefer. I use and love this collagen powder in my recipes!
  • Maple Syrup: Naturally sweetens the mixture without refined sugars.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: Adds the warm, cozy flavors of fall, making these protein balls irresistible.

Does Any Nut Butter Work?

Yes! While cashew butter is recommended for its creamy texture, any nut or seed butter—like almond, peanut, or sunflower seed butter—can be used as a substitute, making this recipe highly customizable.

What Collagen or Protein Powder Do You Use?

You can use unflavored collagen powder, any vanilla protein powder, or even extra almond flour for a protein powder-free option. Choose a protein powder that fits your dietary needs and flavor preferences.

pumpkin protein balls with white chocolate drizzle on a plate.

Storage Tips

Store these pumpkin protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to a month. Simply grab one from the freezer and enjoy!

Switch Up The Flavors of These Pumpkin Protein Balls

You can switch out the pumpkin puree for mashed banana or add mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chia seeds for extra texture and flavor.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Vegan: Use a plant-based protein powder and ensure your nut butter is dairy-free.
  • Nut-Free: Replace the almond flour with coconut flour or oat flour, and use sunflower seed butter in place of the cashew butter.
  • Low Sugar: Opt for a low-sugar protein powder or reduce the amount of maple syrup.
pumpkin protein balls on a plate with white chocolate drizzled on top.
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Pumpkin Protein Balls

These pumpkin protein balls are made with only six wholesome ingredients, gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with protein for a healthy, and delicious snack! They're basically pumpkin pie in healthier, small bite form. I just know you're going to LOVE them!
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chilling Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup cashew butter or any nut/seed butter
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 2 scoops unflavored collagen powder or protein powder, or an additional 1/4 cup of almond flour
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a bowl and mix well until fully combined.
  • Scoop energy bites with a medium sized cookie scoop and arrange the scoops onto a plate. Transfer the plate to the freezer for at least 20 minutes, or until they firm up a bit.
  • Remove the plate from the freezer and rolls the scoops into balls with your hands. Drizzle with melted white chocolate, enjoy right away, or store in the freezer for later on!

Nutrition

Serving: 1ball | Calories: 144kcal | Carbohydrates: 8.5g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 10g | Sugar: 4.25g
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30 Minutes or Less

Protein Cookie Dough Bark

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a piece of protein cookie dough bark with flaky salt on top.

Since my last cookie dough bark recipe went viral, I’m back with a protein version! This protein cookie dough bark is just as delicious, but with an additional 8 grams of protein per serving. I love making a batch at the beginning of the week to snack on all week long. But if you’re in need of a sweet treat with even more protein, give my single serve protein cookie a try (with 30 grams of protein). What can I say? I just really love a high-protein, gluten free, and low sugar snack!

protein cookie dough bark pieces stacked on top of each other.

What You’ll Need to Make This Recipe

  • Almond Flour: Acts as a gluten-free and low-carb base. I buy almond flour in bulk on Amazon, since I use it in so many of my healthy gluten-free recipes!
  • Vanilla Protein Powder: Boosts the protein content, making this a nutritious snack option. I used the Be Well By Kelly Vanilla Protein Powder, but your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder will work. Or, feel free to swap out the protein powder for unflavored collaged – I like this brand!
  • Coconut Oil: Helps bind the dough while adding healthy fats. If you don’t have coconut oil, you can use melted butter in its place.
  • Maple Syrup: Provides natural sweetness, complementing the protein powder and chocolate chips!
  • Chocolate Chips: Adds sweetness and richness—both mixed into the dough and melted on top for the bark. I use and love the Guittard Dairy-Free Extra Dark Chocolate Chips in all of my recipes!

Is This Cookie Dough Bark Safe to Eat?

Yes! Since it’s made without raw eggs or raw flour, this cookie dough bark is safe to eat right out of the freezer. The protein powder and almond flour create a safe, edible base.

Storage Tips

Keep the bark in an airtight container in the freezer. It stays fresh for up to two months… but there’s no way it’ll last that long! To enjoy, let it thaw for a minute or two at room temperature before serving.

protein cookie dough bark on a baking sheet.

Switch Up The Flavors of This Protein Cookie Dough Bark

Get creative by changing the flavor combinations:

  • Swap out the vanilla protein powder for chocolate or peanut butter protein.
  • Add chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to the mixture for extra texture and nutrients.
  • Drizzle peanut butter or caramel over the bark before freezing.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Vegan: Use a plant-based protein powder and dairy-free chocolate chips.
  • Make it Low Carb: Replace maple syrup with a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit syrup, and opt for sugar-free chocolate chips.
  • Make it Nut-Free: Swap the almond flour for coconut flour to make this a nut-free cookie dough bark recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a high-protein, low-sugar, gluten-free treat. It’s made with just 5 simple ingredients and can easily be adjusted to meet various dietary needs. Plus, it’s a fun way to enjoy cookie dough in a healthier, grab-and-go type form!

a piece of protein cookie dough bark with flaky salt on top.
5 from 4 votes

Protein Cookie Dough Bark

This 5-ingredient protein cookie dough bark recipe is a quick and healthy snack that’s gluten-free and high in protein! It's easy to customize with different flavors and can easily be made vegan or low-carb. Store this protein cookie dough bark in the freezer for a quick, guilt-free snack anytime!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Freezing Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or your favorite liquid sweetener
  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips, divided

Instructions

  • Mix together the almond flour, protein powder, coconut oil, and maple syrup in a bowl. Add in ½ cup of chocolate chips and mix again to combine.
  •  Line a small baking sheet or large plate with parchment paper, then place the cookie dough mixture on top of the parchment paper. Spread and flatten the mixture with your hands to form a large piece of cookie dough bark.
  • Melt the remaining 1 cup of chocolate chips, then pour the melted chocolate over the cookie dough bark. Spread the chocolate into an even layer, then place the bark in the freezer for at least one hour.
  • When ready to eat, remove the protein cookie dough bark from the freezer and either cut or break into large pieces. Enjoy right away and store leftover bark in the freezer for later!

Nutrition

Serving: 1piece | Calories: 357kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 23g
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30 Minutes or Less

Healthy Gluten Free Apple Crisp

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gluten free apple crisp in a baking dish with a spoon and two scoops of ice cream on top.

I’ve been making a variation of this healthy gluten-free apple crisp for the last 6+ years! But it wasn’t until this year that I finally decided to sit down, perfect it, and write out each ingredient.

It’s just one of those staple recipes I come back to every fall/holiday season. It’s that perfect end-of-day treat, best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream… and maybe even a healthy homemade pumpkin spice latte on the side?? Yup, now we’re talkin’! So head to your local orchard, pick alllll the apples, then run home and bake up this cozy apple crisp.

overhead image of healthy gluten free apple crisp in a baking dish

What Makes This the BEST Gluten-Free Apple Crisp?

  • Quick and Easy: No complicated steps, just mix, sprinkle, and bake!
  • Wholesome Ingredients: Made with healthier alternatives like coconut sugar and almond flour.
  • Perfect Texture: Gooey apples with a crisp, buttery oat topping. YUM!
  • Adaptable for Dietary Needs: Can easily be made vegan and nut-free without sacrificing flavor.
  • Delicious Fall Flavor: The combination of tart apples, cinnamon, and a touch of lemon gives this dessert a warm and comforting taste.

What You’ll Need to Make This Recipe

Apples: Granny Smith apples are recommended because they hold their shape well and provide a nice tartness that balances the sweetness of the topping. Other firm apples like Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, and Fuji are also great options.

Coconut Sugar or Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness without overpowering the dish. Coconut sugar is less refined and has a subtle caramel flavor.

Corn Starch: Helps thicken the apple juices as they bake, preventing the filling from becoming watery.

Lemon Juice (Optional): Brightens the apple filling and enhances the flavors. It also prevents the apples from browning too much before baking.

Cinnamon: Essential for that classic fall flavor. It adds warmth and depth to both the filling and the topping!

Rolled Oats: Provides a crisp, crumbly texture to the topping. Be sure to use certified gluten-free oats if necessary.

Almond Flour: A great gluten-free alternative to regular flour, adding a subtle nutty flavor and additional texture to the topping.

Butter (Non-Dairy Optional): Adds richness and helps create a crispy topping. Non-dairy butter works perfectly if making this vegan. I used Miyoko’s non-dairy butter and it works great in this recipe!

Gluten-Free-Apple-Crisp-Step-1
Gluten-Free-Apple-Crisp-Step-2
Gluten-Free-Apple-Crisp-Step-3

Top 5 Apples For Baking

  1. Granny Smith: Tart and firm, making them perfect for baking as they hold their shape.
  2. Honeycrisp: Sweet, juicy, and crisp, adding great flavor and texture.
  3. Pink Lady: Sweet with a nice tartness, they retain their shape well when baked.
  4. Braeburn: Well-balanced between sweet and tart, perfect for crisps and pies.
  5. Fuji: Sweet and firm, they add a great depth of flavor to any baked dessert.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Nut-Free: Replace almond flour with oat flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the recipe nut-free.
  • Vegan Option: Use non-dairy butter to keep it fully vegan.
gluten free apple crisp on a plate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream

Can I Make Other Gluten-Free Fruit Crisps?

Absolutely! This versatile crisp recipe can be adapted with various fruits:

Cherry Crisp: Use fresh or frozen cherries in place of apples. Reduce the coconut sugar slightly to account for the cherries’ sweetness.

Pear and Cranberry Crisp: Replace apples with sliced pears and add 1 cup of fresh cranberries for a tart twist.

Peach Blueberry Crisp: Substitute peaches and blueberries, but reduce the sweetener slightly as these fruits can be naturally sweeter.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion This gluten-free apple crisp is not just another dessert; it’s a comforting, warm, and healthier treat that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re accommodating dietary restrictions or just looking for a delicious fall dessert, this crisp checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s easy to adjust, making it the ideal recipe for any gathering.

gluten free apple crisp in a baking dish with a spoon and two scoops of ice cream on top.
5 from 2 votes

Gluten-Free Apple Crisp

This healthy gluten-free apple crisp is the easiest and best fruit crisp you’ll ever make. It’s perfectly sweet with a crumbly oat topping, and ready in no time! This recipe is not only gluten-free but can be adapted to be dairy-free, vegan, and refined sugar-free.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

For the apples:

  • 5-6 apples, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thin)
  • 1/4 cup coconut sugar, or brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon corn starch
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the crisp:

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 3/4 cup almond flour
  • 1/2 cup coconut sugar, or brown sugar
  • 6 ounces butter, cut into 1-inch cubes (I used non-dairy butter)
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit.
  • Add all apple ingredients to a 9-inch baking dish and toss together until evenly coated, then spread apples into an even layer around the dish.
  • Add all crisp ingredients to a large bowl. Use a fork to mix together, until a crumbly mixture forms. Sprinkle crisp topping evenly over the apples.
  • Bake for 40-45 minutes or until apples are soft, then let cool slightly before serving.

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Dairy-Free

5 Ingredient Brownie Batter Bark (vegan and gluten-free!)

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holding a piece of brownie batter bark

My 4 ingredient cookie dough bark recipe went crazy viral a few weeks ago, which inspired me to make this 5 ingredient brownie batter version! I pretty much combined that recipe with my double chocolate gluten-free edible cookie dough recipe to make this better-for-you brownie bark. It’s no-bake, vegan, gluten-free, low-carb, and even refined sugar-free! It’s also totally DELICIOUS.

What Makes This the BEST Brownie Batter Bark

The magic of this bark lies in its simplicity and clean ingredients. With just five ingredients, you get all the rich, chocolatey flavor of brownie batter without the baking, refined sugar, or dairy. The almond flour gives it a perfectly soft texture, while the maple syrup adds natural sweetness. This recipe is also incredibly versatile—you can switch up the ingredients or add mix-ins to create your perfect treat!

close-up image of brownie batter bark pieces

What You’ll Need to Make This Recipe

  • Almond Flour: This grain-free flour gives the bark its brownie-like texture. It’s light, slightly nutty, and keeps the recipe low-carb and gluten-free. I purchase my almond flour in bulk because I use it in so many of my healthier dessert recipes! You can substitute with oat flour if needed, but start with a smaller amount since it absorbs less liquid.
  • Cocoa Powder: This is what gives the bark its deep chocolate flavor. Opt for unsweetened cocoa powder to keep the recipe lower in sugar. You can also use cacao powder for an extra boost of antioxidants.
  • Coconut Oil: This healthy fat adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together. It also gives the bark a lovely, melt-in-your-mouth quality. Refined coconut oil is best if you want to avoid a coconut flavor, but unrefined works great, too.
  • Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that complements the chocolate and almond flavors perfectly. You can swap it for honey or a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit syrup if desired.
  • Chocolate Chips: Melted chocolate chips create a luscious, glossy coating for the bark, adding a satisfying crunch when set. You can use dark, semi-sweet, or even dairy-free chocolate chips to suit your dietary needs.
brownie batter bark pieces stacked on top of each other.

Is This Brownie Batter Bark Safe to Eat?

Yes! Since this recipe is no-bake and made without eggs, it’s completely safe to eat. Plus, with no refined sugars or artificial additives, it’s a cleaner dessert option that everyone can enjoy.

Storage Tips

Store your brownie batter bark in an airtight container in the freezer. It keeps well for up to two months, making it a great make-ahead treat. If you prefer it slightly softer, let it sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes before eating.

Switch Up the Flavors

  • Add Nut Butters: Swirl in some peanut butter or almond butter for a rich, nutty flavor.
  • Mix in Nuts or Seeds: Add chopped walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for a bit of crunch.
  • Sprinkle Toppings: Top with flaky sea salt, coconut flakes, or sprinkles for an extra fun twist.

This brownie batter bark is a quick and versatile treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying it solo, it’s the perfect healthy indulgence that everyone will love!

holding a piece of brownie batter bark
4.25 from 32 votes

5 Ingredient Brownie Batter Bark (vegan and gluten-free!)

This 5-ingredient brownie batter bark is the ultimate treat for brownie lovers. It’s vegan, gluten-free, low-carb, and low in sugar, making it a guilt-free dessert option! Perfect for parties, gifting, or just indulging in a healthier sweet snack, this bark is easy to make and so delicious. No need for an oven—just a few ingredients, a little bit of mixing, and some time in the freezer!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips, divided

Instructions

  • Mix together the almond flour, cocoa powder, coconut oil, and maple syrup in a bowl. Add in ½ cup of chocolate chips and mix again to combine.
  • Line a small baking sheet or large plate with parchment paper, then place the cookie dough mixture on top of the parchment paper. Spread and flatten the mixture with your hands to form a large piece of brownie batter bark.
  • Melt the remaining 1 cup of chocolate chips, then pour the melted chocolate over the brownie batter bark. Spread the chocolate into an even layer, then place the bark in the freezer for at least one hour.
  • When ready to eat, remove the brownie batter bark from the freezer and either cut or break into large pieces. Enjoy right away or store leftover bark in the freezer for later!
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Dairy-Free

4 Ingredient Date Caramels

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date caramels on a plate with flaky sea salt on top.

I LOVE dates. I almost always have a bag on-hand. They’re perfect for stuffing with peanut butter, like in my 4-ingredient healthy snickers, or blending with oats to make healthy cookie dough date bites. Or… if you’re like my husband, dates are delicious all on their own!

Dates are the main ingredient in these 4 ingredient date caramels. They’re softened with a little hot water, then blended with almond butter and coconut oil to make a lusciousssss healthy date caramel. And because everything tastes better dipped in chocolate (ok ok, MOST things taste better dipped in chocolate), each date caramel is dunked in melted chocolate, then placed in the freezer until firm. The end result is a perfectly sweet and healthier chocolate-covered caramel candy. YUM!

overhead image of date caramels lined up with flaky sea salt on top.

What You’ll Need to Make This Recipe

  • Medjool Dates: The star ingredient! Medjool dates are naturally sweet and sticky, making them the perfect base for these caramels. If your dates are a bit dry, soaking them in hot water helps soften them up for easy blending. Here’s a link to the medjool dates I purchase on Amazon!
  • Creamy Almond Butter: Adds creaminess and a subtle nutty flavor to the caramels. You can substitute with any nut or seed butter like peanut butter or sunflower seed butter to make the recipe nut-free.
  • Coconut Oil: This helps bind the ingredients together and adds a touch of richness. Use refined coconut oil to avoid any coconut flavor, especially if you want the dates’ natural sweetness to shine through.
  • Chocolate Chips or Bar: Choose a high-quality dark chocolate for a rich coating. If you’re keeping this treat refined sugar-free, look for a chocolate that’s sweetened with coconut sugar or another natural sweetener. The coconut oil added to the chocolate helps it melt smoothly and gives the caramels a beautiful glossy finish.

How to Make Date Caramels

  1. Soak the Dates: Start by soaking the dates in hot water for about 10 minutes to soften them, making them easier to blend.
  2. Blend: After soaking, drain the dates and add them to a food processor along with the almond butter and melted coconut oil. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. Shape & Freeze: Spread the date mixture into a parchment-lined loaf pan and freeze for 2-3 hours until firm.
  4. Cut into Squares: Once firm, remove from the freezer and cut into 12 small squares.
  5. Dip in Chocolate: Melt the chocolate with a bit of coconut oil, then dip each caramel square into the chocolate until fully coated. Place the coated caramels on a parchment-lined plate and refrigerate until the chocolate is set.
close up image of a date caramel candy with a bite taken out.

Make Them Nut-Free

If you’re catering to a nut-free crowd, simply swap out the almond butter for sunflower seed butter. The consistency and flavor are just as delicious, making this treat accessible for those with nut allergies!

Tips and Tricks

  • Use Fresh Dates: Fresh, soft dates blend more easily and give you a smoother caramel. If your dates are dry, don’t skip the soaking step.
  • Don’t Overheat the Chocolate: When melting the chocolate, keep the heat low to prevent burning. A double boiler works well, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
  • Storage: These caramels keep best in the fridge or freezer, so you can always have a batch on hand for when the craving hits. They taste great straight from the freezer too!

These caramels are a healthier take on the classic candy, with no need for a candy thermometer or complicated techniques. Perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!

date caramels on a plate with flaky sea salt on top.
4.50 from 6 votes

4 Ingredient Date Caramels

If you’re looking for a vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free treat that’s perfect for gifting or snacking, these 4-ingredient date caramels are your answer! They’re rich, chewy, and coated in decadent chocolate—ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth while sticking to your dietary needs. Plus, they’re easy to make and great for parties!
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Ingredients

For the date caramel:

  • 1 cup packed medjool dates, pitted
  • 2 tablespoons creamy almond butter, or any nut/seed butter
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted

For the chocolate coating:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips, or an 8-ounce chocolate bar
  • 2 teaspoons coconut oil, melted

Instructions

  • Soak the dates in a bowl of very hot water for 10 minutes.
  • Once dates are very soft, drain them from the water and transfer the soaked dates to a food processor or high-speed blender. Add the almond butter and coconut oil to the dates, and pulse until completely smooth.
  • Transfer the date caramel to a 9×5-inch loaf pan lined with parchment paper, then place the pan in the freezer for 2-3 hours, or until date caramel is firm to the touch.
  • Remove the loaf pan from the freezer, and lift the date caramel out of the pan. Place the date caramel on a cutting board and slice into 12 small squares.
  • Melt the chocolate chips and 2 teaspoons coconut oil in a heat-safe bowl in either the microwave or over a double boiler on the stove. Once chocolate is completely smooth and melted, dip each caramel square in the chocolate to fully coat. Carefully lift the caramel out of the chocolate and transfer to a parchment-lined plate.
  • Repeat the dipping process with all caramels, then transfer to the fridge for 1 hour or until chocolate has hardened and is completely set. Once set, enjoy your chocolate covered date caramels, or keep stored in the fridge to enjoy later on!

Notes

  • These date caramels are best stored in the fridge or freezer! If left at room temperature, the chocolate will melt.
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