November is Vegan Month, and it’s the perfect time to embrace plant-based recipes that satisfy your cravings without compromising your values. Today, I want to share – Homemade Rolo Knock-Offs! These little bites of chocolatey, caramel goodness are not only vegan and gluten-free but also packed with wholesome ingredients that will leave you feeling nourished and indulgent.
I first borrowed The oh she glows cookbook: vegan recipes to glow from the inside out by Angela Liddon from the BCIT Library in 2014 and made these for my book club. I needed snacks that were gluten free and vegan. Anyone can put out hummus, veggies, and gluten free crackers but this dessert stole the evening. Ten years on I am still making them.
Why Choose Vegan and Gluten-Free?
When it comes to indulging your sweet tooth, choosing plant-based, gluten-free options isn’t just about dietary preferences — it’s about making conscious choices for your health and the planet. These homemade Rolo knock-offs offer all the satisfaction of a candy bar without the dairy, refined sugars, or gluten found in traditional treats.
- Vegan-Friendly: The recipe uses wholesome ingredients like dates, coconut oil, and dairy-free chocolate to create a rich, decadent taste, without any animal products. You won’t miss the traditional caramel-filled center of a Rolo at all.
- Gluten-Free: Made with naturally gluten-free ingredients, these homemade candies are perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone following a gluten-free diet.
- Simple Ingredients: The five simple ingredients in this recipe (dates, almond butter, dairy-free chocolate, sea salt, and coconut oil) are wholesome and minimally processed, offering a healthier alternative to conventional candies.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted Medjool dates (about 11 dates)
- 1 tablespoon almond butter (or peanut butter)
- Pinch of fine sea salt
- 1/2 cup dairy-free (dark) chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- A pinch of flaky sea salt (for topping)
Step 1: Make the Caramel Filling
- Start by soaking your dates in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften them up. After draining, blend the dates, almond butter and a pinch of sea salt together in a food processor until smooth and creamy.
- Freeze the sticky date caramel for 10 minutes to make it easier to work with.
Step 2: Form the Balls
- Wet your hands and roll small spoonfuls of the caramel mixture into bite-sized balls and set them on a parchment-lined tray. Return to freezer while you do the next step.
Step 3: Coat with Chocolate
- Melt your dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut oil together in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Once melted, dip each caramel ball into the chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Place the chocolate-covered caramel balls back on the parchment paper.
Step 4: Add a Pinch of Sea Salt
- Sprinkle a pinch of flakey sea salt on top of each chocolate-covered bite.
Step 5: Chill and Enjoy
- Let the chocolate set by placing the tray in the freezer for at least 20 minutes, or until firm. Once chilled, your homemade Rolo knock-offs are ready to enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Storage: They keep in the freezer very well. They are challenging to resist once you know they are there.
- Presentation: These little candies make great homemade gifts! Package them in a small jar or box for a personal touch during the holiday season.
The end of November is fast-approaching. The season for holiday parties (and exams) are upon us. Treat yourself and your friends!
What are your favourite vegan treats to make during Vegan Month? Let us know in the comments below!
Did you know that the meat industry is one of the leading contributors to climate change? Since 1994 November has been celebrated as vegan month, it’s crucial to understand the profound impact our dietary choices have on the planet. According to a report by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, livestock farming accounts for nearly 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions (FAO, 2013). In addition to emissions, animal agriculture is a significant driver of deforestation, with vast tracts of forest cleared for grazing land and feed crops, contributing to biodiversity loss (World Wildlife Fund, 2020). Nutrient runoff from livestock operations also pollutes waterways, affecting aquatic ecosystems (US EPA, 2021).