Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares

Name: Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup cashew butter; 2 cups shredded coconut; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Classic Recipes

I’m excited to share my Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares recipe with you! These delicious treats combine rich chocolate, creamy coconut, and crunchy cashews for a sweet snack that satisfies any craving. Whenever I whip these up, the heavenly aroma fills my kitchen and brings back memories of my childhood. Whether I’m sharing them with friends or enjoying them solo, I find that they’re the perfect pick-me-up. Easy to make and uniquely satisfying, I think you'll absolutely love this indulgent treat!

Created by

Kitty Lawrence

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:45:36.170Z

When I first attempted making Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares, I wanted to create something that would both please my sweet tooth and impress my friends. I found that the secret to the perfect texture lies in using shredded coconut alongside smooth cashew butter, providing a delightful chew while complementing the chocolate. It’s all about balancing flavors!

Each time I make these squares, I like to experiment with toppings—sometimes I sprinkle sea salt on top or drizzle extra chocolate for a more decadent finish. This flexibility makes it a fun recipe that not only satisfies but also invites creativity!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty cashews
Decadent yet healthy, perfect for a quick snack
Simple to make with just a few ingredients

      

Crafting the Perfect Cashew Mixture

To achieve the ideal texture in your Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares, the consistency of the cashew mixture is crucial. When mixing the cashew butter, shredded coconut, honey, vanilla extract, and salt together, ensure that everything is thoroughly combined. The mixture should be somewhat sticky, yet malleable enough to hold its shape when pressed into the baking dish. If your cashew butter is too thick, a gentle warming in the microwave can help soften it, making it easier to mix.

Using fresh, high-quality shredded coconut will enhance both the flavor and texture of your squares. I recommend unsweetened shredded coconut, as it provides a lovely chewiness without adding excess sweetness. Furthermore, if you're looking to infuse the cashew mixture with a deeper flavor, consider toasting the shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden. This additional step not only intensifies the coconut's natural flavor but also adds a hint of nuttiness.

Mastering the Chocolate Layer

Melting chocolate can be tricky if not done carefully. Be sure to use a microwave-safe bowl and heat the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals. Stirring each time is essential, as it prevents the chocolate from overheating and becoming grainy or burnt. If you notice it’s still not melting after several stirs, try adding a teaspoon of coconut oil to the mixture. This will help create a smoother, pourable consistency that glazes optically appealing while also marrying well with the cashew mixture beneath.

Once drizzled on top, let the Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares chill in the refrigerator until firm. Ideally, allow them to set for at least 20-30 minutes; this ensures the chocolate hardens properly and provides a nice contrast to the soft cashew base. If pressed for time, you can briefly place them in the freezer for about 10 minutes, but be careful not to forget them, as the chocolate may crystallize if frozen too long, potentially affecting the texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares:

Ingredients

1 cup cashew butter
2 cups shredded coconut
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Now that you've gathered everything, you’re ready to make your squares!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your squares:

Prepare the Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the cashew butter, shredded coconut, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well blended.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.

Combine and Set

Pour the cashew mixture into an 8x8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. Spread evenly and drizzle the melted chocolate on top. Chill in the fridge for about 20 minutes until firm.

Cut and Serve

Once set, remove from the dish and cut into squares. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares!

Enjoy these delightful squares as a snack, dessert, or even a healthy treat!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, try mixing in dried fruits or seeds into the cashew mixture before setting to enhance flavor and texture.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to personalize your Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares by adding mix-ins like dried fruit, seeds, or different types of nuts. For instance, dried cherries or apricots can complement the rich chocolate beautifully, added at the same time as the coconut. If you prefer a crunchier texture, chop the cashews coarsely and stir them in; this way, you’ll get delightful bites of cashew in every piece.

For those looking to make a vegan version, substituting honey with maple syrup is a perfect one-for-one replacement and maintains the necessary sweetness. Furthermore, check your chocolate chips for dairy-free options to ensure the whole treat aligns with your dietary preferences.

Storage and Shelf Life

These Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares store wonderfully, making them a great make-ahead option. After cutting them into squares, place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 5 days, but for longer storage, place the container in the refrigerator, where they can last up to 2 weeks. If you want to make them even more long-lasting, consider freezing the squares. Simply wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag; they can be frozen for 2-3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen square, simply take it out and allow it to thaw at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. It will return to its delicious texture and flavor, making it an easy snack whenever you’re in need of a chocolatey pick-me-up!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of nut butter?

Yes, almond butter or peanut butter can also work well in this recipe.

→ How long do these squares last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Absolutely! Just use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.

→ Is it possible to freeze these squares?

Yes, you can freeze the squares for up to three months! Just make sure to wrap them tightly.