Monday, March 4, 2013

Sugar-Free Pumpkin Caramel

Oh, you mean to tell me that it isn't fall anymore?  Well, while this post is a bit late, and pumpkin is not all over the stores in February, I didn't want to wait another year to share this recipe. My kids don't wait until Halloween to play dress-up, so why wait until autumn-time to enjoy the magic of pumpkin caramel? This makes a great filling for ridiculously simple oatmeal bars, or you can use it as a fruit dip, or just eat it out of the pan like Abiline did.  It is thick, creamy, and sweet, with no butter or sugar. And easy to make, too!



1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup, packed, pitted dates
1/4 tsp. sea salt
1 tsp. vanilla extract

1. Combine all ingredients except vanilla in a small saucepan, bring to a simmer over medium heat, and simmer for about 10 minutes, until the dates are very soft.
2. Add the vanilla extract and transfer the mixture to your food processor or blender. Puree until totally smooth. Enjoy!



Now that I've got you in the mood, I'll take this opportunity to reminisce about our autumn adventures. It doesn't seem that long ago, considering that we just finally threw out our pumpkins last week.   Happy Halloween in February, everyone!





  This post is linked to Slightly Indulgent Tuesday, Allergy-Free Wednesday, Gluten-Free Wednesday, and Wellness Weekend.



6 comments:

  1. This looks awesome! What is the purpose of the dates? I cannot have the sugar in dates. Can I use stevia instead? I'm not sure if the role of the dates is purely sweetener or if it acts as a thickener.

    Thanks!!!

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  2. The dates act as both thickener and sweetener. I'm sure you could use stevia to sweeten it, but you may need to experiment around with thickeners. Perhaps some agar powder or tapioca starch?

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  3. That is easy peasy! Love it! I hope you stop by Gluten Free Fridays this week to link up this yummy recipe! It will be live Thursday evening at 7:05 pm! We are having a Gluten Free giveaway this week to one lucky person! Hope to see you there! Cindy :)

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  4. looks like heaven to me, featuring your recipe on AFW this week!

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  5. Those pictures are so cute, and the pumpkin caramel looks delicious. Halloween should definitely come twice a year!

    -Molly

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