No Bake Caramel Brownies

These no bake caramel brownies are rich, fudgy, and irresistibly gooey. Made with wholesome ingredients, they feature a dense brownie base topped with a silky sea salt caramel. Naturally gluten-free and refined sugar-free, they’re the perfect healthy indulgence for dessert lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These brownies are quick, easy, and require no baking at all. Using dates, nuts, and almond butter, they’re packed with nutrients without sacrificing flavor. The luscious caramel layer with a hint of sea salt adds a perfect balance of sweet and salty, making them a crowd-pleasing treat. They’re also freezer-friendly, making them perfect for meal prep or a quick snack.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Brownies:
1 ½ cups pitted medjool dates
1 cup walnuts
½ cup hazelnuts
⅓ cup cocoa powder

Salted Caramel:
½ cup almond butter
¼ cup maple syrup
1 tablespoon almond milk
1 tablespoon coconut oil
¼ teaspoon sea salt

directions

1. In a food processor, combine the dates, walnuts, hazelnuts, and cocoa powder. Process until a sticky, brownie-like consistency forms.

2. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and press the brownie mixture evenly into the pan.

3. In a small bowl, stir together almond butter, maple syrup, almond milk, coconut oil, and sea salt until smooth.

4. Pour the caramel mixture over the brownie layer and spread evenly.

5. Place the pan in the freezer for about 1 hour, or until the caramel layer firms up.

6. Once set, sprinkle with flaky sea salt and slice into 10–12 squares.

7. Store in the freezer for best texture and flavor.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 brownies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes + 1 hour freezing

Variations

• Swap hazelnuts for almonds or cashews.

• Drizzle melted dark chocolate on top for an extra decadent layer.

• Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the brownie base for added depth of flavor.

• Mix in shredded coconut or cacao nibs for texture.

storage/reheating

Store brownies in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. No reheating is required; simply allow them to sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes for easier slicing.

FAQs

Can I use another type of nut?

Yes, almonds, pecans, or cashews can replace walnuts and hazelnuts.

What if my dates are hard?

Soak them in warm water for 5–10 minutes to soften before using.

Can I make these without almond butter?

Yes, peanut butter or cashew butter can be used as a substitute.

Are these brownies vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan.

Can I use regular cocoa powder?

Yes, unsweetened cocoa powder works perfectly.

Can I make mini brownies?

Yes, press the mixture into a smaller pan and cut into smaller squares; freezing time remains the same.

Can I prepare them ahead of time?

Absolutely, they can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the freezer.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Yes, fold in chocolate chips into the brownie layer before pressing into the pan.

How long do they last at room temperature?

It’s best to keep them frozen; at room temperature they may soften too much.

Can I use maple syrup for the caramel layer?

Yes, maple syrup is already included, but you can adjust sweetness to taste.

Conclusion

These no bake caramel brownies are a quick, wholesome, and decadent treat that doesn’t require any baking. With a fudgy base, creamy caramel topping, and a sprinkle of sea salt, they’re perfect for dessert, snacks, or a healthy treat anytime. Easy to make, freezer-friendly, and irresistibly delicious, they’re a must-try for anyone craving a sweet indulgence without refined sugar.