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 cashews, chopped; 1 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons coconut oil

Highlighted under: Pastry Pleasures

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares when I'm in the mood for a sweet treat. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy cashews creates an irresistible texture, making it difficult to stop at just one square. What I find particularly delightful is how simple they are to whip up—perfect for unexpected guests or satisfying a late-night craving. Plus, the coconut adds a lovely tropical twist that elevates the entire experience. Trust me, these will become a go-to in your dessert repertoire!

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:37:17.595Z

When I first made these Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares, I wanted to impress my friends during a cozy gathering. I experimented with different nuts and found that cashews provided the perfect crunch. The trick is to use high-quality chocolate, which makes all the difference in flavor. This time, I opted for a dark chocolate that complemented the sweetness of the coconut beautifully.

In addition to being a delightful treat, I discovered that these squares could easily be stored in the refrigerator for a week, making them a fantastic option for meal prep. The flavors deepen over time, enhancing the overall taste. A sprinkle of sea salt on top adds just the right contrast too!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate paired with creamy coconut
Nutty cashews for an added crunch
Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying alone

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a vital role in the success of these Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares. The cashews not only provide a delightful crunch but also offer healthy fats and protein that help to balance the richness of chocolate. Opting for raw, unsalted cashews allows the natural flavor to shine through without overwhelming the other elements. Unsweetened shredded coconut adds a chewy texture and a hint of tropical sweetness, while maple syrup serves as a natural sweetener that enhances the overall flavor profile without being overly saccharine.

Cocoa powder is essential for achieving that deep chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy coconut. When selecting cocoa powder, try to choose a high-quality, unsweetened variety for the best results. Slightly bittersweet cocoa enhances the dessert's complexity, while the addition of coconut oil binds the mixture together, creating a fudgy base. I personally recommend using virgin coconut oil for its subtle coconut taste, which harmonizes with the shredded coconut beautifully.

Preparation and Texture Tips

When combining the ingredients for the base, aim for a sticky consistency that holds together well. If the mixture feels too dry, a touch more maple syrup or melted coconut oil can help achieve that sticky texture. This is important for ensuring that the squares hold their shape when cut. After pressing the mixture into the pan, use the back of a measuring cup or your hands to create a compact surface, which will aid in getting clean, well-defined squares after chilling.

For the topping, be patient while melting the chocolate chips with coconut oil over low heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is glossy and fully melted; overheating can cause the chocolate to seize, resulting in an unusable texture. If you do encounter seized chocolate, try adding a small amount of warm water to restore its smoothness. Once the topping is spread evenly, refrigerating it for about 20 minutes ensures a firm finish, making cutting into squares much easier without causing the chocolate to crack.

Ingredients

For the base

1 cup cashews, chopped
1 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the topping

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
2 tablespoons coconut oil

Mix all base ingredients until well combined.

Instructions

Prepare the base

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped cashews, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is well combined and has a sticky consistency.

Press into a pan

Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan in an even layer.

Make the topping

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil together, stirring until smooth. Once melted, pour the chocolate over the base and spread evenly.

Chill and cut

Refrigerate the pan for at least 20 minutes, or until the chocolate topping has set. Once set, lift the squares out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut them into squares.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before chilling for a more complex flavor.

Storage Tips

These Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you plan to enjoy them over a longer period, they also freeze beautifully. Just wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours or enjoy straight from the freezer for a cool treat.

Be aware that the texture may slightly change after freezing; they tend to become a bit firmer but will still deliver all that delicious flavor. If you notice any separation between the chocolate topping and the coconut base after thawing, just give them a gentle press together to re-establish cohesion.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your serving presentation, consider drizzling a small amount of melted chocolate over the squares just before serving. This not only adds a decorative touch but also enhances the chocolate flavor. Pair them with a scoop of coconut ice cream for an extra indulgence or serve alongside a fresh fruit salad for a balanced dessert experience. The contrast of temperature and flavors will create a memorable treat for your guests.

These squares can also be enjoyed as part of a healthy snack option. Crumbling them over yogurt or oatmeal adds a delightful crunch and chocolate infusion. For a more substantial treat, consider layering them with other dessert options like mousse or topping a chocolate cake, offering a fun twist on traditional layering techniques.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of cashews?

Yes, almonds or walnuts work great as alternatives!

→ How long do these squares last?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Is there a vegan alternative for honey?

Maple syrup is a perfect vegan substitute!

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! Just make sure they are well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.