Vegan Caramel Vanilla Ice Cream Sandwich Bites

These no-bake, freezer-friendly bites combine a rich chocolatey base, sweet date "caramel," and creamy vanilla coconut whip, all dipped in a dark chocolate shell. They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and totally crave-worthy!

Jump to recipe

Vegan Caramel Vanilla Ice Cream Sandwich Bites: The Ultimate Frozen Treat

If you’re looking for a no-bake, dairy-free dessert that’s equal parts indulgent and wholesome, these Vegan Caramel Vanilla Ice Cream Sandwich Bites will quickly become your new go-to. Made with a fudgy peanut butter chocolate base, soft Medjool dates for that perfect “caramel” layer, creamy coconut whip or non-dairy vanilla ice cream, and finished with a rich dark chocolate coating and flaky sea salt—every bite is pure bliss.

In this post, we’re diving into what makes these plant-based frozen treats so special, why they’re a great alternative to store-bought desserts, and how to customize them for your taste buds and dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love These Vegan Ice Cream Sandwich Bites

✅ Naturally Sweetened & Refined Sugar-Free

Unlike traditional ice cream sandwiches loaded with processed sugar, these bites are sweetened with maple syrup and Medjool dates—both natural sources of sweetness with added health benefits. This makes them a more wholesome choice for kids and adults alike.

✅ Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free

Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, gluten-sensitive, or simply exploring plant-based recipes, these mini sandwich bites check all the boxes. The combination of almond flour and coconut whip keeps them light and allergy-friendly without sacrificing flavor.

✅ No Bake & Minimal Equipment

You won’t need any fancy appliances—just a mixing bowl, silicone muffin tray, and your freezer. These are the kind of treats you can whip up with minimal effort but maximum reward.

✅ Customizable

From switching up the nut butter in the base to using different flavors of non-dairy ice cream, this recipe is easy to personalize. Add-ins like crushed nuts, cacao nibs, or even a drizzle of almond butter on top can elevate the experience even more.

What Makes These "Caramel" Sandwiches Vegan?

Traditional caramel contains butter and sometimes cream, making it a no-go for anyone following a vegan lifestyle. These ice cream sandwich bites use Medjool dates instead, which are naturally sticky, sweet, and reminiscent of caramel when paired with creamy ingredients. Medjool dates are not only vegan and unprocessed but also rich in potassium, fiber, and antioxidants—making them a healthy swap with zero compromise on flavor.

Coconut Whip vs. Non-Dairy Vanilla Ice Cream

A common question is: Should I use coconut whip or vegan vanilla ice cream in these bites?

Here’s a breakdown:

• Coconut Whip (Cocowhip):Light, fluffy, and made from coconut cream, this option is perfect if you want an airier texture. It’s easy to spread, especially once softened at room temperature, and adds a tropical hint to the dessert.

• Non-Dairy Ice Cream:If you’re going for a more traditional ice cream sandwich feel, using a scoopable vegan vanilla ice cream is the way to go. Look for cashew, oat milk, or almond-based ice creams for the best creaminess.

Both options work beautifully—it really comes down to preference and availability.

Ingredients Spotlight

🥜 Peanut Butter

A great source of healthy fats and protein, peanut butter gives the base its fudgy, satisfying texture. You can swap it out for almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter if you’re nut-free.

🌰 Almond Flour

Naturally gluten-free, almond flour adds structure and a subtle nutty flavor to the base. It’s also packed with Vitamin E and healthy fats.

🍫 Cacao Powder

Rich in antioxidants and naturally bitter, cacao balances out the sweetness of the dates and maple syrup. If needed, unsweetened cocoa powder works as a 1:1 substitute.

🍁 Maple Syrup

Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness without refined sugars. Make sure to use pure maple syrup for the best flavor and nutrition.

How to Store and Serve

These bites store perfectly in the freezer for up to 3 weeks in an airtight container. Let them sit at room temperature for 3–5 minutes before eating for the perfect soft, chewy, creamy texture. They make the ultimate midday snack, post-dinner treat, or impressive party dessert.

Want to impress guests? Stack them up on a platter, sprinkle with extra cacao nibs or crushed nuts, and drizzle with more melted chocolate.

Perfect for Meal Prep & Batch Freezing

One of the best parts about this recipe is that it’s batch-friendly. Whether you’re prepping snacks for the week or building out your stash of freezer-friendly desserts, these vegan ice cream bites hold up well. Make a double batch, and thank yourself later!

Healthier Than Store-Bought Treats

Let’s be honest—store-bought vegan ice cream treats are often loaded with added sugars, oils, gums, and other preservatives. By making your own at home, you get full control over the ingredients while still enjoying a satisfying dessert. These sandwich bites are a great option for those trying to eat more clean, whole foods without giving up on indulgence.

Common Questions (FAQ)

❓Can I make these nut-free?

Yes! Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and almond flour with oat flour. The flavor and texture will change slightly but still taste great.

❓Can I use a regular muffin tin instead of silicone?

You can, but silicone makes it much easier to pop them out. If using a metal tin, line each cup with parchment strips or paper liners.

❓What’s the best chocolate for dipping?

Use high-quality vegan dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (70% or higher). Pairing it with coconut oil helps thin the chocolate for easier dipping and creates that satisfying snap once frozen.

❓Can I skip the chocolate dip?

Sure! They’re still delicious without it, though the chocolate shell adds a lovely texture and a bit of richness. If you want to reduce sugar or fat content, it’s fine to omit or drizzle instead.

Final Thoughts

These Vegan Caramel Vanilla Ice Cream Sandwich Bites are the kind of dessert that checks all the boxes—easy, healthy-ish, satisfying, and totally irresistible. Whether you’re looking to cool off in the summer or just want to keep a stash of better-for-you frozen treats on hand, this recipe is a winner every time.

Best of all? They’re kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and party-approved. You won’t believe something this simple can taste so indulgent.

If you make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on social media or leave a comment below. I’d love to hear how yours turned out and what twists you put on it!

........................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................