Healthy Caramel Pecan Brownies (No-Bake, Vegan)

These healthy caramel pecan brownies are the perfect dessert to have prepped for the week. A chewy brownie base is layered with gooey caramel, and topped with crunchy pecans for an irresistible treat. Plus they're vegan and gluten free!

These are quite possibly the best brownies I have ever created. They're perfectly chewy and are topped with chopped pecans for a lovely added crunch. The best part about these fudgy brownies is that they're completely no bake and require just a few simple ingredients! Trust me when I say they're sure to be a new house favorite!

Ingredients

Brownie:

• Pitted Medjool Dates
• Walnuts
• Hazelnuts
• Cacao Powder

Caramel Layer:

• Pecan Butter
• Maple Syrup
• Coconut Oil
• Almond Milk

Topping:

• Pecans
• Flakey Sea Salt

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

1. Brownie: Combine all ingredients in a food processor until a brownie-like consistency is achieved. Press the mixture into your prepared pan in an even layer.
2. Salted caramel: Stir together all ingredients until smooth, then pour over the brownie layer. Scatter chopped pecans on top of the caramel.
3. Place the brownie tray in the freezer to firm up. Once set, sprinkle sea salt on top of the brownies. Slice into squares and enjoy!
4. Store in the freezer and thaw for 10 minutes before serving.

Substitutions

• Cacao powder - Cocoa powder can also be used if preferred.
• Walnuts, Hazelnuts - I love the combination of walnuts and hazelnuts for a delicious nutty flavor in these brownies. However, you don't need to use both, you can use all hazelnuts or walnuts and the recipe will still turn out great!
• Pecan Butter - any creamy nut butter can be used for your caramel mixture instead. My favorite swaps are almond butter, peanut butter or tahini.
• Almond milk - any plant-based milk will work for this recipe.

Equipment Needed for this Homemade Brownie Recipe

• Loaf Pan or Baking Pan
• Parchment Paper
• Food Processor
• Sharp Knife
• Measuring Cup

How to store these Healthy Caramel Pecan Brownies:

These no bake brownies are best stored in the freezer. Simply wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container. They will keep fresh in the freezer for up to 4 months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature for 15 mins to let soften and enjoy!

3 Top Tips for Success

1.  Soft, gooey medjool dates work best for this recipe to create the best chewy brownies. If your dates are not soft, soak in hot water for 10 mins and pat dry before blending with the rest of your ingredients
2. Let brownies set completely before cutting into squares. This ensures that your brownies hold together and don't turn out too sticky or crumbly.
3. Use a sharp cutting knife when slicing your brownies in order to get clean and even cuts. Pro tip: if you're finding your brownies difficult to slice, dip your knife in hot water before slicing. This makes it easier to cut through the brownies without any hassle. 

FAQs

📖 Recipe