Everyday Chef: Caramel Dip for Fresh Fruit (No Refined Sugar)

Alex Caspero, MA, RD, CLT
Everyday Chef, Fruits & Veggies—More Matters

This recipe is a less indulgent version of one of my favorite afternoon snacks, apple and pear slices with caramel sauce. While I typically snack on fresh, plain fruit, it’s a fun treat to enjoy them alongside a small serving of homemade caramel dip. I tested this dip for my husband over the weekend and he couldn’t believe that it didn’t contain any refined sugars or butters. This creamy fruit dip taste a lot like caramel thanks to the unique richness of maple syrup and almond butter.

This dip is incredibly easy to make and requires only one pot! Place the maple syrup and almond butter into a small pot and cook over low heat until the mixture reaches a simmer. Continue to cook for 5-8 minutes until the mixture is reduced and thick. Then, whisk in remaining ingredients and serve with fruit of choice. For a fun twist on an afternoon snack, try this dip in apple nachos! Layer thin slices of apples on a plate and drizzle with warm caramel sauce.

This dip will thicken as it cools, so reheat any leftovers on the stove or microwave as needed. Store extras in the fridge for whenever you need a quick dip for fresh fruit.



Caramel Dip Recipe
Ingredients
½ cup real maple syrup
3 tablespoons almond butter (peanut or other nut butter will work too)
1 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Procedure
In a small pot, bring the maple syrup to a boil over medium heat. Keep a watchful eye on the syrup, stirring often and continue boiling for 3-4 minutes until reduced and thick. If the syrup starts to boil over, reduce heat to low.
Whisk in the nut butter, vanilla extract, salt and cinnamon to the pot of maple syrup. Whisk until well blended. Let cool slightly and serve.



Photo Credit: Andrew Dole