It’s that time of year again when parents everywhere struggle to pack healthy choices in school lunches that their children will eat. Although I don’t suggest trying to trick your children into eating healthy food, I prefer to educate on healthy choices as much as possible, it’s the real world however and sometimes trickery is in order with picky little eaters. Now is your chance. We made this dip for our last healthy kids cooking class along with apple slices for dipping. Not only did the kids love it but the adults devoured it as well. I have made this thinner and used it as “icing” for grain free cakes and cookies as well with equal success.

Medjool dates although sweet are nutritious. Dates contain fiber, vitamins, minerals and protein. They contain a good source of vitamin A which is essential for beautiful. glowing skin as well as eye health. Dates are also loaded with B1, B2, B3 and B5 as well as iron and potassium. Potassium is essential for nervous system health. Glucose and fructose are natural sugars found in dates that can be a good energy boost however because of these sugars moderation is suggested when consuming dates.

Caramel Dip

1 cup dates, pits removed
1/2 cup coconut milk or almond milk (more or less depending on how fresh the dates are)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of good quality sea salt
Cinnamon (optional)

Place the dates, coconut milk, vanilla and sea salt in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and add more coconut milk to achieve the desired consistency. Serve or place in a sealed jar and refrigerate.