It’s easy—and honestly, fun—to recreate our favorite indulgences with a healthy twist, and this Dairy-Free Salted Caramel Milkshake might be one of my all-time favorite examples.

As a registered dietitian, I’m always experimenting with ways to deliver that sweet-and-salty satisfaction without a drop of added sugar or heavy ingredients—and this shake (and my chocolate one) checks every box. It’s luscious, indulgent-tasting, and perfectly nourishing.

Why you’ll love this recipe

  • Sweet meets salty: Thanks to naturally sweet dates, a dash of maple extract, and a pinch of sea salt, you get that perfect salted caramel taste—no syrup required.
  • Light & luscious: Pineapple and nut butter team up for a smooth, milkshake-inspired treat—no dairy, no problem.
  • Nutrient boost: It’s loaded with potassium, fiber, and healthy fats… but you’d never know how healthy it is because it tastes like a dessert dream.
Step 1: In a high-speed blender, blend milk and dates until smooth and no bits remain.
Step 2: Add the pineapple, almond butter, vanilla, maple extract, and ice.
Step 3: Blend until thick, frothy, and smooth.
Step 4: Pour into the glasses, add an extra pinch of sea salt, if desired.

I use dates to lend natural sweetness and a whole lot of fiber. I rely on almond milk to keep it dairy-free and vegan, but you can feel free to swap in the milk of your choice. You can find the maple extract or flavor (it comes in a small bottle) at most mainstream supermarkets and definitely at specialty shops and health food stores.

I ❤ dates

I love making sweet treats with dates for so many reasons:

  1. They’re nature’s candy—soft, sticky, and caramel-like, with no need for added sugar.
  2. They bring more than just sweetness—think fiber, antioxidants, and a variety of vitamins and minerals packed into every bite.
  3. They’re culinary chameleons—you can blend them into smoothies, whip them into frosting, or stuff them with nut butter for an instant snack.

If you haven’t already tried my DIY Caramel Sauce, 2-Ingredient Chocolate Fudge, and Snicker Dates, definitely give them a whirl. Dates play a starring role in each!

As for this salted caramel milkshake? I first showed this recipe on the Food Network’s show, The Kitchen, and I challenged the hosts to guess the secret healthy ingredient. They could hardly believe there was no added sugar or ice cream within. You and your family will be surprised, too, that something this indulgent is actually good for you. Grab your straw and start sipping!

Looking for more sweet treats? Try my Chocolate Chip Chamomile Cookies and Cherry Oatmeal Cookies!

(5 stars) 11 ratings

Dairy-Free Salted Caramel Milkshake

It’s easy to create healthier versions of our favorite indulgences using a little creativity, and this milkshake might be the perfect example of that.
Yield: 2 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
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Ingredients
 

  • 1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
  • ½ cup pitted dates
  • ½ cup frozen pineapple chunks
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons creamy almond butter, or peanut butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon maple extract or maple flavor
  • ½ cup ice cubes
  • A few pinches sea salt, optional for subtle salty flavor

Instructions
 

  • In a high-power blender, combine the milk and dates and process until well combined and there are virtually no date bits and pieces visible.
  • Add the pineapple, almond butter, vanilla, maple extract or flavor, and ice cubes. Blend on medium speed just until the ice cubes are pureed and the beverage is thick and frothy.
  • Pour into the glasses, add an extra pinch of sea salt to each, if desired.

Notes

Note: If you have a high-power blender, you can add all ingredients at once.
Author: Joy Bauer, MS, RDN, CDN

Nutrition Information per serving

Calories: 180Carbohydrates: 31gProtein: 4gTotal Fat: 6g— Unsaturated Fat: 5.5g— Saturated Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 128mgFiber: 4gTotal Sugar: 22g— Natural Sugar: 22g— Added Sugar: 0gVitamin C: 17mgCalcium: 275mgIron: 1mg
Nutrition information is calculated using a leading industry software. That being said, brands can vary, and there may be slight fluctuations in the numbers.
I’m hoping you loved this recipe! If you made it and want to share feedback, I’d be so grateful to hear from you. Please leave a review below or tag @joybauer on Instagram!