Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares

Name: Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup cashews, chopped; 1 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened; 1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Home Baking Ideas

I love making these Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares for special occasions or just to treat myself. The combination of rich chocolate, nutty cashews, and sweet coconut creates a blissful indulgence that satisfies my cravings every time. The simplicity of the ingredients, along with the ease of preparation, makes this dessert a favorite in my home. Whether I’m bringing them to a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon with tea, these squares are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:34:35.797Z

When I first experimented with these Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares, I was blown away by how quickly they came together. The method allows the flavors of each ingredient to harmonize beautifully, with the chocolate melting effortlessly into the cashews and coconut. I found that using high-quality chocolate made a significant difference, elevating the whole recipe.

One of my favorite tips is to allow the squares to chill completely before cutting them. This helps them hold their shape and provides a clean, beautiful finish. Trust me, these little squares are worth the wait!

Why You Will Love These Squares
Decadent chocolate meets crunchy cashew goodness
Chewy coconut adds a delightful texture
Perfectly sweet without being overwhelming

Achieving the Perfect Texture

The key to achieving the ideal texture in Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares lies in the balance of ingredients. The chopped cashews provide a satisfying crunch, while the shredded coconut lends a chewy quality. Make sure to use unsweetened coconut to avoid overpowering the natural flavors of the chocolate and maple syrup. This careful balance creates a delightful mouthfeel that is both rich and light.

When mixing the ingredients, the melted dark chocolate acts as a binding agent, holding everything together. It’s important to melt it gently, either in a microwave or a double boiler, until glossy. If you're in a hurry, microwaving in 20-second bursts at medium power works well, stirring in between to prevent scorching. This ensures that the chocolate is easy to mix into the other ingredients.

Chilling and Setting Tips

Chilling the squares is a crucial step to ensuring they hold their shape. After pressing the mixture into the baking dish, wrap the dish with plastic wrap or cover it before placing it in the refrigerator. Allow at least 30 minutes to set; however, for a firmer texture, you can chill it for up to 1 hour. This not only solidifies the chocolate but also enhances the flavors as they meld together.

If you're pressed for time, you can speed up the process by placing the baking dish in the freezer for 15-20 minutes. Just watch them closely to ensure they don’t freeze completely, as this could make cutting difficult. Once firm, you can easily slice them into squares without crumbling, resulting in perfect, neat edges.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares

For the Squares

1 cup cashews, chopped
1 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened
1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Mix the ingredients well for an even distribution of flavors.

Instructions

Instructions for Making Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares

Prepare the Base

In a mixing bowl, combine chopped cashews, shredded coconut, melted dark chocolate, maple syrup, and sea salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Set the Mixture

Transfer the mixture to a lined square baking dish. Press down firmly to create an even layer, ensuring it’s compact.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Once set, remove from the dish and cut into squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Enjoy these delicious squares as a treat any time of day!

Pro Tips

For a different flavor profile, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a few drops of vanilla extract to the mixture.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For an elegant touch, consider serving them on a platter with fresh berries or a dusting of cocoa powder. They also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream for added indulgence.

For a fun twist, you could cut them into smaller rectangles and serve them as bite-sized treats at parties. They’re also ideal for lunchboxes or as a quick snack during the day. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and chewy.

Storing and Freezing

To store your Chocolate Coconut Cashew Squares, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigeration can extend their freshness for up to two weeks. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving, as this can enhance their flavor and texture.

If you want to make a big batch or save some for later, these squares freeze exceptionally well. Cut them into squares, then layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply transfer them to the refrigerator for a few hours to thaw.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute peanuts or almonds instead of cashews.

→ How long do these squares last?

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

→ Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes! Just ensure you're using dairy-free chocolate.

→ Is there an alternative sweetener?

You can substitute maple syrup with agave syrup or honey if you prefer.