Apple Sticks with Caramel Dipping Sauce

I love caramel, but I often miss it because I no longer eat dairy. This dipping sauce does the trick – it is vegan and gluten-free and absolutely delicious! It is the perfect treat for a lunch or a great option for a healthy dessert!

Apple Sticks with Caramel Dipping Sauce 2 apples 8 dates 1/4 cup maple syrup 3 Tablespoons cashew butter 3 to 5 Tablespoons warm water 1. Place the dates into a pot of boiling water and boil for 10 minutes. Drain and allow to cool completely. When cooled, remove the skin (it will be loose and peeling already). 2. Using a fork, mash the dates until they form a smooth paste. Add the maple syrup and mix completely. Stir in cashew butter and 3 Tablespoons of warm water until the caramel dip is smooth and creamy (if dip is not creamy, add water 1/2 Tablespoon at a time and stir until it reaches the desired consistency). 3. Slice apple vertically into 1/4 inch thick slices. Cut each slice into 5 sticks (they should look almost like apple fries). Dip apple sticks into caramel dipping sauce to eat.