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Lightened-Up Salted Caramel Brownie Bites

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Fudgy, rich brownie bites with a date-based caramel and flaky sea salt, made with wholesome ingredients for a lighter dessert that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Perfect for Friendsgiving or any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed preferred)
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup coconut flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted (about 8–10 dates)
  • 1/4 cup warm water (plus more if needed)
  • 2 tablespoons almond butter (smooth)
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Flaky sea salt (for topping)
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips (for drizzle)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with parchment liners or silicone cups.
  2. Make the date caramel: In a food processor, combine pitted Medjool dates, warm water, almond butter, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Process for 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy. Add more warm water if needed to reach a pourable consistency. Set aside.
  3. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, and salt until no lumps remain.
  4. Mix wet ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together eggs, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and applesauce until smooth and glossy.
  5. Combine wet and dry: Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix. Batter will be thick and fudgy.
  6. Fill muffin cups: Using a small cookie scoop or teaspoon, fill each lined muffin cup about 2/3 full with brownie batter.
  7. Add caramel: Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of date caramel onto the center of each brownie bite. Do not press in.
  8. Bake for 12-14 minutes, until edges are set and slightly cracked, and centers still look soft. A toothpick inserted into the brownie part should come out with a few moist crumbs.
  9. Cool completely in the pan for at least 15 minutes before removing.
  10. Add finishing touches: If using, melt dark chocolate chips and drizzle over tops. Sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt. Serve at room temperature.

Notes

Don’t overmix the batter. Watch oven closely; brownies go from perfect to overdone quickly. Cool completely before removing from pan. Make caramel ahead of time. Use a cookie scoop for consistent sizes. Double the batch for larger gatherings. Add salt and chocolate drizzle right before serving for best presentation.

Nutrition

Keywords: brownie bites, salted caramel, healthy dessert, Friendsgiving, gluten-free, refined sugar-free, date caramel, mini brownies

Find it online: https://dahliadishes.com/lightened-up-salted-caramel-brownie-bites-for-friendsgiving/