One-Ingredient Vegan Caramel Recipe
This simple 1-ingredient vegan caramel recipe uses coconut condensed milk to achieve a rich, creamy caramel sauce perfect for drizzling over desserts or incorporating into sweet treats. With multiple cooking method options including stovetop simmering, slow cooking, and microwaving, this versatile caramel is easy to make vegan and dairy-free, delivering a luscious sweet flavor and smooth texture without any refined sugars.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours (stovetop) / 8-10 hours (slow cooker) / ~15 minutes (microwave)
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes to 10 hours 5 minutes depending on method
- Yield: About 1 cup caramel sauce 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 can coconut condensed milk (traditional condensed milk works too)
Instructions
- Prepare the condensed milk: Remove the label from the can of coconut condensed milk and ensure it is sealed. This will be the base for your caramel.
- Stovetop simmering: Place the can in a small saucepan and cover with warm water so the water level is about 1-2 inches above the can. Heat on medium until the water begins to simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover the pan. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 hours, longer for a darker, thicker caramel.
- Cooling after stovetop method: Remove the pan from heat. Using tongs, carefully take the can out of the water and immediately submerge it into a bowl of cold water. Let it cool completely for about 10 minutes before opening to avoid burns.
- Slow cooker method: Place the unopened can in a slow cooker and fill with water until the water level is about 1-2 inches above the can. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, with longer cooking times producing thicker caramel.
- Cooling after slow cooker method: Turn off the slow cooker and carefully remove the can using tongs. Submerge it in cold water for at least 10 minutes until cool to handle safely before opening.
- Microwave method: Pour the coconut condensed milk into a large microwave-safe bowl and cover completely. Microwave on 50% power for 5 minutes to avoid boiling over. Stir thoroughly.
- Continue microwaving: Cover again and continue heating on 20-30% power in 2-3 minute increments, stirring between each, until the caramel reaches your desired consistency. Watch carefully to prevent spills.
- Final step: Once cooled and opened, transfer the caramel to a bowl or jar and use as desired. Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Ensure the can remains fully submerged in water during stovetop or slow cooker methods to prevent overheating and potential bursting.
- Cooling the can completely before opening is crucial for safety to avoid burns from hot caramel.
- The cooking time affects the color and thickness; longer simmering or slow cooking results in a darker, thicker caramel.
- This caramel is naturally vegan and dairy-free if using coconut condensed milk.
- You can also use traditional condensed milk if vegan options are not preferred, but it will not be vegan.
- Microwave method requires close attention to prevent boil-overs.
- Store caramel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Keywords: vegan caramel, coconut caramel, dairy-free caramel, 1 ingredient caramel, easy caramel sauce, homemade caramel, vegan dessert sauce
Find it online: https://www.sanacooks.com/one-ingredient-vegan-caramel-recipe/
