Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares

Name: Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 2 hours; 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Daily Cooking

I love making Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares because they combine rich chocolate with the tropical flair of coconut and the crunch of cashews. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures, and these squares are perfect for satisfying my sweet tooth without feeling overly indulgent. The best part? They come together quickly, requiring no baking at all! This simple recipe has become a favorite in my home, and I can’t wait to share it with all of you.

Created by

Arden Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:53:34.649Z

In my quest to create the perfect sweet treat, I stumbled upon the idea of combining chocolate, coconut, and cashews. It was a match made in heaven, with the subtle sweetness of coconut perfectly complementing the deep flavors of chocolate. After several iterations, I finally nailed down the proportions for a creamy, delectable square that satisfies my cravings.

What sets this recipe apart is the use of natural ingredients. By choosing unsweetened coconut flakes and raw cashews, I ensure that the sweetness remains balanced. The result? A delicious snack that feels indulgent yet wholesome, making it ideal for anytime snacking or serving at gatherings!

Why You'll Love These Squares
Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy cashews
Chewy coconut texture that adds a tropical twist
Quick and no-bake, perfect for last-minute cravings

The Art of Blending

Achieving the perfect texture for your Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares is all about the blending process. When combining the soaked cashews with the other ingredients, make sure to blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This can take anywhere from 1 to 3 minutes, depending on your food processor's power. If you notice any chunks remaining, continue blending as these can disrupt the final texture of your squares.

The balance of flavors is also crucial in this recipe. For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the mixture; it will enhance the chocolate taste without making your squares taste like coffee. It’s subtle but can elevate your dessert significantly. Make sure to taste the mixture before transferring it to the pan; adjustments to sweetness or chocolate intensity can greatly change the final outcome.

Setting for Success

Chilling the mixture in the refrigerator is a crucial step that allows the squares to firm up properly. Make sure to cover the pan with plastic wrap or a lid if you have one, to prevent the squares from absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge. It’s best to let them chill for at least an hour, but if you’re in a time crunch, even 30 minutes can give you a decent result. However, the longer they set, the easier they will be to cut into squares without crumbling.

For serving, I recommend slicing the bars into smaller squares, about 1 to 1.5 inches each. This makes them more manageable as a snack and allows guests to enjoy them without feeling overwhelmed by portion sizes. If you want to add a special touch, consider drizzling a little melted dark chocolate on top once the bars are set.

Ingredients

For the Squares

1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 2 hours
1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, combine soaked cashews, coconut flakes, cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

Prepare the Pan

Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.

Spread the Mixture

Transfer the blended mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and press down firmly to ensure it holds together.

Chill

Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set. Once firm, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a pinch of sea salt on top before chilling. Feel free to customize with add-ins like dried fruit or nuts for variety.

Storing Your Squares

Once you’ve cut your Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each square in parchment paper, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months without losing texture or flavor.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen bar, simply remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. If you're in a hurry, you can also microwave a square for 10-15 seconds to soften it slightly, but be careful not to melt it.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to customize your Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares by adding unique elements such as dried fruits or different nuts. Chopped dried cherries or apricots can add a lovely tart flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the chocolate. Similarly, swapping out cashews for pecans or almonds will give a different texture and flavor profile, so don’t hesitate to experiment.

For a peanut butter twist, you can replace half of the coconut oil with natural peanut butter for a richer flavor. Just remember that this will change the consistency slightly. If you want to add a bit of crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top of the squares before chilling them. This not only enhances the look but also adds another layer of texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely! You can substitute almonds or walnuts if you prefer.

→ How should I store these squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Yes, just substitute honey with maple syrup to keep it vegan.

→ What if I don't have a food processor?

You can use a blender, but be sure to soak the nuts longer to soften them.