Crisp apples, vegan caramel, and assorted dippers make a festive, crowd-pleasing autumn dessert board.
# Ingredient list:
→ Vegan Caramel Sauce
01 - 1 cup coconut cream
02 - 1/2 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
03 - 2 tablespoons maple syrup
04 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - Pinch of sea salt
→ Fruit
06 - 4 crisp apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji), sliced
07 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
→ Dippers & Accompaniments
08 - 1 cup seedless grapes
09 - 1 cup fresh strawberries, halved
10 - 1/2 cup dried apricots
11 - 1/2 cup vegan chocolate pieces
12 - 1/2 cup roasted nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts)
13 - 1/2 cup pretzel sticks (ensure vegan)
14 - 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
15 - 1/4 cup vegan marshmallows (optional)
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Combine coconut cream, coconut sugar or brown sugar, and maple syrup in a small saucepan set over medium heat. Whisk continuously as the mixture heats and begins to bubble. Lower the heat and simmer 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently until sauce thickens. Remove from the heat, stir in vanilla extract and sea salt, and allow to cool slightly before serving.
02 - Cut apples into even slices and gently toss with lemon juice to prevent oxidation and browning.
03 - Neatly arrange apple slices, grapes, strawberries, dried apricots, vegan chocolate pieces, roasted nuts, pretzel sticks, shredded coconut, and vegan marshmallows on a large serving board or platter for presentation.
04 - Pour the cooled vegan caramel sauce into a small serving bowl and position it at the center of the board.
05 - Present immediately and invite guests to dip apple slices and accompaniments into the caramel.
