Name: Healthy Salted Caramel Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk; 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey (for vegan, use maple syrup); 2 tbsp coconut sugar (optional, for added depth); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp sea salt; 1 tsp arrowroot powder or cornstarch (optional, for thickening); 1 tbsp water (for mixing with thickener, if using)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This healthy salted caramel sauce satisfies all your sweet cravings without the guilt. It’s dairy-free, refined sugar-free, and can easily be made vegan or paleo depending on your ingredients. You’ll love how quick and simple it is to make—no thermometer needed, no complicated steps. It’s smooth, rich, and packed with flavor, yet made entirely from ingredients you can feel good about.

Ingredients

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

Full-fat canned coconut milk
Maple syrup or honey (depending on dietary preference)
Coconut sugar (optional, for added depth)
Vanilla extract
Sea salt
Arrowroot powder or cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Directions

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the coconut milk and maple syrup (or honey).
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer, stirring frequently.
Let it simmer for 15–20 minutes until it reduces and thickens slightly.
Stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt.
For a thicker sauce, mix a small amount of arrowroot or cornstarch with water and whisk it into the caramel. Simmer for another 1–2 minutes.
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
Store in a glass jar and refrigerate once cooled.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of sauce. Prep time is 5 minutes, cook time is about 20 minutes, and cooling takes another 10 minutes.

Variations

Use date syrup or blended Medjool dates for a fruit-sweetened version.
Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice note.
Stir in a tablespoon of almond butter for a nutty twist.
Use agave nectar for a vegan-friendly option.
Make it extra thick for spreading by simmering longer or adding more thickener.

Storage/Reheating

Store the sauce in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving. Stir well before each use, as separation may occur naturally.

FAQs

Can I make this caramel sauce vegan?

Yes, simply use maple syrup or agave instead of honey, and ensure your other ingredients are plant-based.

Does it taste like coconut?

There is a slight coconut undertone, but the caramel flavor is dominant, especially when using vanilla and sea salt.

Can I use light coconut milk instead of full-fat?

You can, but the sauce may be thinner and less rich.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer longer to reduce or add a slurry of arrowroot or cornstarch mixed with water.

Is this caramel sauce suitable for a paleo diet?

Yes, if you use maple syrup or raw honey and avoid corn-based thickeners, it’s paleo-friendly.

Can I use this as a dip?

Absolutely. It’s great for dipping apples, bananas, pretzels, or even drizzled over popcorn.

Will it harden in the fridge?

It will thicken significantly when chilled. Reheat gently and stir to return it to a pourable consistency.

Can I freeze this caramel sauce?

Yes, it freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

Is it safe for kids?

Yes, it’s made from natural ingredients and is a healthier option for children compared to traditional caramel.

What can I use this sauce on?

Drizzle it over pancakes, waffles, ice cream, yogurt, oatmeal, or blend it into smoothies and lattes.

Conclusion

Healthy Salted Caramel Sauce brings all the rich, indulgent flavor of traditional caramel in a better-for-you format. Whether you’re topping a dessert or sweetening up a snack, this guilt-free sauce delivers satisfaction without compromise. It’s quick to make, simple to store, and endlessly versatile—your new go-to healthy treat.