Fudge-y Vegan "Caramel" Brownies

Craving something rich and chocolatey without the sugar crash? These Fudge-y Vegan "Caramel" Brownies are your answer. They’re deeply decadent, irresistibly gooey, and secretly nourishing—packed with fiber, plant-based protein, omega-3s, and a host of vitamins and minerals. It’s a treat that satisfies your sweet tooth and supports your energy, mood, and overall well-being.

Perfect as an after-dinner dessert or a midday pick-me-up, these brownies are made with real, whole ingredients that fuel you rather than deplete you. And yes—they’re delightfully messy (in the best way possible).

A few notes before you dive in:

• The optional date “caramel” topping adds an extra layer of indulgence. I love it! My husband prefers them without—try both and decide for yourself.

• The caramel won’t freeze well, but it’s delicious stored chilled and enjoyed slightly gooey.

• Dates have a natural caramel-like flavor, but it’s not your classic store-bought drizzle. Think rustic, rich, and nourishing—nature’s candy at its best.

Fudge-y Vegan "Caramel" Brownies

Serves: 8

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: none

Fudge-y Vegan "Caramel" Brownies Ingredients

• 1/2 cup almond butter

• 1/3 cup date paste (see notes below)

• 1/4 cup plant-based milk, unsweetened

• 1/2 cup cacao or cocoa powder, Fair Trade

• 2 Tbsps flax meal

• 2 Tbsps hemp seed

• 1/4 cup oat flour

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/8 tsp salt

Caramel Topping Ingredients

• 8 pitted dates

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• pinch of salt

• 1 cup hot water

Directions for Making Fudge-y Vegan "Caramel" Brownies

1. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and set aside.

2. Make the date paste if you don’t already have some on hand (see below!).

3. Add all of the brownie ingredients to a food processor or blender and blend until smooth.

4. Transfer the brownie batter to the loaf pan and freeze for 30 minutes.

5. Make the caramel sauce: Soak the dates in hot water for 10 minutes.

6. Drain, but reserve the soaking water.

7. Add the dates, vanilla, salt, and ¼ cup of the soaking water to the food processor and blend until smooth.

8. If the mixture is too thick, add more of the soaking water to achieve the desired consistency.

9. Remove the brownies from the freezer and spread the caramel sauce on top.

10. Freeze for an additional 15 minutes.

11. Remove the brownies from the freezer and cut into 2x2 inch squares. Store in the freezer or refrigerator.

How to make date paste

(this is for about a cup of date paste)

Soak 1 cup of pitted dates in warm water for 30 minutes (enough to cover the dates). Drain, but reserve the liquid. Add the dates and 3/4 cup of the liquid to a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and a paste-like consistency. Use date paste anywhere you'd use maple syrup. It's naturally sweet with lots of nutrition!

These Fudge-y Vegan Brownies prove that dessert can be both decadent and good for you. Whether you enjoy them with or without the date caramel, they’re rich, satisfying, and made with ingredients you can feel great about.

Bake a batch, get a little messy, and treat yourself to a brownie that loves you back. If you give them a try, I’d love to hear what you think—or see your brownie magic! Tag me on social or drop a comment below. 🍫