Irresistible Gooey Vegan Caramel Slices (No-Bake & Gluten-Free Option)

If you're a fan of deliciously sweet treats but follow a vegan or gluten-free lifestyle, we have a delightful recipe that will satisfy your cravings. Get ready to experience pure bliss with these Gooey Vegan Caramel Slices. Not only are they irresistibly gooey and decadent, but they also require no baking and can be made gluten-free.

And, just when you thought things couldn’t get any better, here’s another great benefit to this recipe: you can use JUVIA as your sweetener. It’s full of sweet goodness, it’s entirely plant-based, and it works to improve your gut health, so twice the treat. There are few sweet treats that can truly say that, so let's waste no time and dive into this mouthwatering recipe.

Ingredients:

For the Base:

• 1 ½ cups almond flour (for the gluten-free option: use gluten-free oat flour)
• ¼ cup coconut flour
• ¼ cup melted coconut oil
• 3 tablespoons of JUVIA or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

For the Vegan Caramel Layer:

• 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted (soaked in warm water for 10 minutes if not soft)
• ¼ cup almond butter (or any nut butter of your choice, assuming no allergies here, use alternative if you have an allergy to nuts)
• ¼ cup melted coconut oil
• ¼ cup of JUVIA or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Topping:

• ½ cup vegan chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare an 8x8-inch silicone baking mould.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour (or alternative), coconut flour, melted coconut oil, JUVIA (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and salt for the base. Mix well until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs and sticks together when pressed between your fingers. 
   Note: If you are using JUVIA, rather than maple syrup, let the coconut oil cool before adding the JUVIA, otherwise it will not work its magic on your gut.  
3. Transfer the base mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it firmly and evenly into the bottom. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to ensure a smooth and compact layer. Place the dish in the refrigerator while you prepare the caramel layer.
4. In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the pitted dates, almond butter, melted coconut oil, JUVIA (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and salt for the caramel layer. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
5. Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and pour the caramel layer over the base layer. Spread it out evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon. Return the dish to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours, or until the caramel layer is firm.
6. Just before removing the dish from the refrigerator, prepare the chocolate topping. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the vegan chocolate chips and coconut oil together in 30-second intervals, stirring well each time until smooth and glossy. Alternatively, melt the chocolate and coconut oil in a double boiler.
7. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading it out evenly to cover the entire surface. Return the dish to the refrigerator and allow the chocolate to set for at least 1 hour.
8. Once the chocolate has hardened, remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and carefully lift the caramel slice using the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board and slice it into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.
9. Store the Gooey Vegan Caramel Slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy them chilled for the perfect gooey texture.

These Gooey Vegan Caramel Slices are an absolute delight that will satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your dietary preferences. The combination of the nutty base, creamy caramel layer, and indulgent chocolate topping creates a heavenly treat that is sure to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike.

So, whether you're looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to a decadent and guilt-free indulgence, these caramel slices are the perfect choice. With their no-bake and gluten-free options, they are versatile and accessible to a wide range of dietary needs. Just make sure to replace the nut ingredients with a suitable alternative, if you have a nut allergy. 

Not only do these slices taste incredible, but they also boast some nutritional benefits. Almond flour provides a good dose of healthy fats and protein, while dates offer natural sweetness and a source of fiber. The use of coconut oil adds a rich flavour and texture, and the almond butter contributes to the creamy caramel layer with its nutty goodness.

And, to top it off (quite literally) you have your daily dose of JUVIA to work its magic in your gut, bringing you balance, flavour, and good health. What more can you ask for? Just remember not to add JUVIA to dishes that are still hot.  

So, gather your ingredients, clear some space in your refrigerator, and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will result in delicious Gooey Vegan Caramel Slices. Enjoy the process of creating these delightful treats and savour every bite as you experience the joy of guilt-free indulgence.

Until next time, team JUVIA wishes you good vibes, a healthy gut, and sweet treats.