Chocolate Coconut Cashew Snack Squares

Name: Chocolate Coconut Cashew Snack Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted dates; 1 cup raw cashews; 1/2 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Coconut Cashew Snack Squares whenever I crave a quick and satisfying treat. The combination of rich chocolate, crunchy cashews, and coconut creates an irresistible flavor profile that delights the senses. With no baking required, these squares come together in just a few simple steps, making them perfect for busy days when a sweet snack is a must. I often prepare a batch ahead of time and store them for those moments when I need a little energy boost or something sweet to indulge in.

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2026-01-18T03:40:16.876Z

When I first made these Chocolate Coconut Cashew Snack Squares, I was amazed at how easy it was to create such a delicious treat without the need for baking. The rich chocolate mixed with the tropical notes of coconut and the crunch of cashews turned out to be an instant favorite. One crucial tip is to ensure your cashews are well-chopped; this way, they blend seamlessly into the mixture, offering flavor in every bite.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with other ingredients like dried fruits and different nuts, but I always find myself coming back to this classic combination. I love cutting them into squares for easy portioning, which makes them a fantastic grab-and-go snack. Plus, you can easily customize the sweetness to your liking—just a little honey or maple syrup can elevate them!

        Why You'll Love These Snack Squares
        The perfect blend of sweet and salty flavors.
No-bake recipe that saves time and effort.
Nutritious ingredients that provide energy and satisfaction.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these Chocolate Coconut Cashew Snack Squares lies in the combination of pitted dates and raw cashews. Dates are naturally sweet, adding a rich caramel flavor while also acting as a binder for the squares. Cashews contribute not only creaminess but also a nutty contrast to the sweet dates. It's essential to use fresh, soft dates to ensure that the mixture blends seamlessly; dried out dates can lead to a crumbly texture that won't hold together as well.

Unsweetened shredded coconut adds a chewy texture and a tropical twist to the squares. For those who prefer a slightly sweeter option, sweetened shredded coconut can be a substitute, but it might alter the overall flavor profile. The cocoa powder plays a critical role in imparting that deep chocolate taste, so opt for a high-quality cocoa for the best results. Alternately, raw cacao powder can be employed for a more nuanced flavor.

Perfecting Texture and Consistency

Achieving the right consistency in the mixture can make or break these snack squares. When pulsing the ingredients in your food processor, be mindful of not over-blending—stop once the mixture is sticky and holds together when pressed. If it feels too crumbly, adding a teaspoon of water or extra honey can help to bring the mixture together. Conversely, if it's too wet, consider adding a bit more cocoa powder or coconut to adjust.

After pressing the mixture into the baking dish, ensure it is compact. This not only helps in cutting clean squares later but also ensures they hold their shape during storage. Using a flat-bottomed measuring cup or a spatula can aid in evenly leveling the mixture. Remember to refrigerate for at least one hour before cutting; this will solidify the bars, making them easier to slice without falling apart.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your delicious snack squares!

Ingredients

1 cup pitted dates
1 cup raw cashews
1/2 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your snack squares:

Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, raw cashews, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup, salt, and vanilla extract. Pulse until the mixture is well-combined and sticky.

Press into a Pan

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the dish and press it down firmly to create an even layer.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour to firm up. Once set, lift the squares out using the parchment paper and cut into desired sizes.

Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add additional nuts or seeds for extra nutrition and texture. You can also substitute the cashews with almonds or walnuts if you prefer!

Storage Suggestions

These snack squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure they are wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

If you make a larger batch, consider cutting the squares into bite-sized pieces before freezing. This way, you can easily grab a quick snack without having to thaw the entire batch. They also make a great addition to lunch boxes or as a post-workout pick-me-up.

Delicious Variations

Feel free to get creative with add-ins to tailor the squares to your taste. Chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, can provide additional crunch and flavor. You might also want to experiment with flavor extracts, like almond or coconut, for extra depth. If you enjoy a bit of spice, a pinch of cinnamon or a few drops of peppermint extract can elevate these bars to a new level.

For those who prefer a bit of a chocolate overload, consider swirling in some melted chocolate on top before chilling. You can drizzle melted dark or white chocolate in a crisscross pattern for a decorative touch while simultaneously enhancing the flavor. Just remember to adjust the sweetness of your squares if you add chocolate, as it will contribute additional sugar.

Questions About Recipes

→ How should I store Chocolate Coconut Cashew Snack Squares?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute the dates?

Yes, you can use dried figs or raisins as an alternative, but it may alter the flavor.

→ Are these snack squares suitable for vegan diets?

Absolutely! Just ensure you're using maple syrup instead of honey.

→ Can I freeze these snack squares?

Yes, they freeze well! Just wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe container.