Save Pin A vibrant, crowd-pleasing platter featuring crisp apple slices, luscious vegan caramel, and an assortment of plant-based snacks. Perfect for autumn gatherings or a festive dessert spread.
One autumn evening, I assembled this caramel apple charcuterie board for friends, and it instantly became the star of our dessert table. Everyone loved picking their favorite dipper and the homemade vegan caramel was an unexpected hit.
Ingredients
- Vegan Caramel Sauce: 1 cup coconut cream, 1/2 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar, 2 tbsp maple syrup, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, pinch of sea salt
- Fruit: 4 crisp apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji), sliced, 1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning)
- Dippers & Accompaniments: 1 cup seedless grapes, 1 cup fresh strawberries (halved), 1/2 cup dried apricots, 1/2 cup vegan chocolate pieces, 1/2 cup roasted nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts), 1/2 cup pretzel sticks (ensure vegan), 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional), 1/4 cup vegan marshmallows (optional)
Instructions
- Make Vegan Caramel:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine coconut cream, coconut sugar, and maple syrup. Whisk constantly until mixture begins to bubble. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring often, until thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and sea salt. Cool slightly before serving.
- Prepare Fruit:
- Slice apples and toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Arrange Board:
- Arrange apple slices, grapes, strawberries, apricots, chocolate pieces, nuts, pretzel sticks, coconut, and marshmallows on a large serving board or platter.
- Add Caramel:
- Pour the cooled vegan caramel sauce into a small bowl and place at the center of the board.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, inviting guests to dip and enjoy.
Save Pin My family loves gathering around this colorful board, dipping apple slices into the caramel while sharing stories. It's an easy way to create a memorable moment during fall celebrations.
Required Tools
Sharp knife, cutting board, small saucepan, whisk, serving board or large platter, small serving bowls
Allergen Information
Contains coconut and tree nuts (if using nuts). Always read labels for vegan status and possible allergens, especially in packaged snacks. Easily adapt for nut-free or coconut-free needs by substituting ingredients.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 320, Total Fat: 12 g, Carbohydrates: 51 g, Protein: 3 g
Save Pin This vegan caramel apple board transforms any gathering into a festive autumn celebration. Invite guests to dip, enjoy, and customize their plates for a sweet, memorable experience.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prevent apples from browning?
Toss the sliced apples with lemon juice right after cutting. The acidity slows oxidation, keeping apples fresh-looking.
- → Can the caramel sauce be made ahead?
Yes, prepare in advance and refrigerate up to one week. Warm briefly before serving for best texture.
- → What can I use for nut-free options?
Use roasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower instead of nuts. Check all dippers for cross-contamination.
- → What fruits work best for dipping?
Besides apples, grapes, strawberries, pears, and figs add variety and pair well with caramel and chocolate.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store caramel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Refrigerate fruits for best freshness.
- → Are there recommended beverage pairings?
Try sparkling apple cider or a light dessert wine for a festive pairing with this sweet and fruity board.