Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares

Name: Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup cashew butter; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 cup shredded coconut; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Oven Ideas

I can't get enough of these Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares! The combination of creamy cashew butter, rich chocolate, and shredded coconut is simply irresistible. Every bite melts in my mouth, revealing layers of flavor that leave me wanting more. I love how easy it is to whip up this treat with just a few ingredients. Whether it's for a snack or a special occasion, these squares are a hit every time. Plus, they come together in no time, making them perfect for any craving!

Created by

Lorna Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:53:35.847Z

Making these Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares was an adventure that I truly enjoyed. I experimented with different ratios of chocolate to cashew butter to find the perfect balance that would delight my taste buds. The essence of coconut adds a wonderful texture and flavor that makes each square unique. I also discovered that a touch of sea salt elevates the overall sweetness perfectly.

After trying various methods, I found that refrigerating the squares allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives them a firmer texture. This insures that they hold together when I cut them into squares. If you love chocolate and coconut, these bars are an absolute must-try!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty cashew goodness
Chewy texture enhanced by sweet coconut flakes
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares plays a crucial role in creating that irresistible flavor and texture. Cashew butter not only provides creaminess but also adds a distinct nutty flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully. If you're looking for a nut-free option, sunbutter can be a great substitute without sacrificing taste.

Dark chocolate chips are key for achieving the rich chocolate flavor that ties everything together. Choose a high-quality chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a deeper flavor profile. If you're a fan of milk chocolate, feel free to use that instead, but be aware it will yield a sweeter end result.

Shredded coconut adds both sweetness and chewy texture. Opt for unsweetened shredded coconut for a more balanced flavor, especially if you find the squares too sweet. You can also try almond or hemp seeds for variation while maintaining the chewy component of the squares.

Technique Tips

When melting the dark chocolate chips, it’s essential to do so over low heat and stir continuously. This prevents the chocolate from seizing, which can happen if it gets too hot or is left unattended. If you notice your chocolate clumping, you can add a teaspoon of coconut oil to help smooth it out.

Incorporating the coconut thoroughly is also vital to ensure an even distribution of flavor. I recommend folding gently after you mix in all other ingredients—this helps to maintain the airiness of the mixture and prevents excessive flattening, preserving that chewy texture that makes every bite delightful.

When pressing the mixture into the baking dish, aim for an even layer by using the back of a spatula or a piece of parchment paper. This will help the squares set uniformly and make them easier to cut later. Remember to refrigerate the mixture until firm, which should take about 15 minutes, but feel free to leave it for up to 30 if you prefer a more solid square.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients:

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares:

Prepare the Base

In a medium saucepan, melt the dark chocolate chips over low heat, stirring consistently to prevent burning. Once melted, remove from heat and mix in the cashew butter, honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt until everything is well combined.

Add Coconut

Fold in the shredded coconut until fully integrated into the chocolate mixture. Ensure that the coconut is evenly distributed for the best flavor in each square.

Set the Mixture

Pour the mixture into a lined 8x8 inch baking dish, pressing down firmly to create an even layer. Place it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to set.

Cut and Serve

Once the mixture is firm, remove it from the dish and cut it into squares. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

For a more tropical flavor, consider adding chopped dried fruits like mango or pineapple to the mixture before setting it.

Storage and Shelf Life

These Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They tend to taste even better after a day in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld nicely. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze them for up to three months; just ensure they are well-wrapped or placed in a freezer-safe container.

When ready to eat, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours. This way, you’ll retain their chewy texture and taste without compromising the quality. If they feel a little too firm post-freezing, a quick minute at room temperature will soften them up nicely.

Serving Suggestions

These squares make a fabulous snack on their own, but they can also be elevated further. For a gourmet touch, serve them alongside a scoop of your favorite ice cream or drizzle with additional melted chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt. This will enhance the dessert's visual appeal and flavor complexity.

If you’re looking to serve these squares at an event, consider cutting them into bite-sized pieces and arranging them on a decorative platter. You can even top them with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or dried fruits, adding a colorful and flavorful touch that is sure to impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another nut butter instead of cashew?

Yes, almond butter or peanut butter can be used as a substitute.

→ How long do these squares last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I make them vegan?

Absolutely! Just use maple syrup for sweetness and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just wrap them in parchment paper and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.