Chocolate Coconut Cashew Bars

Name: Chocolate Coconut Cashew Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup roasted cashews, coarsely chopped; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Coconut Cashew Bars as a treat for my friends and family. These bars are a delightful blend of rich chocolate, crunchy cashews, and unsweetened coconut. The combination creates a texture that is both chewy and nutty, satisfying my sweet tooth without being overly sweet. Plus, they are wonderfully simple to prepare, making them a great option for both everyday indulgence and special occasions. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to keep the recipe close at hand!

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-15T12:25:09.379Z

When I first experimented with making these Chocolate Coconut Cashew Bars, I knew I wanted a recipe that would appeal to both chocolate lovers and health-conscious eaters. I found that the combination of dark chocolate and natural sweeteners really made a difference, providing just the right amount of sweetness while retaining that rich, chocolatey flavor that everyone craves.

One tip I learned along the way is to toast the cashews slightly before adding them to the mixture. This brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor, which makes the bars all the more delicious. It's a small step, but it really elevates the final result!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy cashews
Chewy texture with a hint of coconut sweetness
Easy to make and perfect for sharing

      

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The quality of ingredients plays a crucial role in the overall flavor of your Chocolate Coconut Cashew Bars. I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate chips, ideally with a cocoa content of at least 70%. This will ensure a rich, deep chocolate flavor that complements the cashews and coconut beautifully. If you prefer a sweeter bite, you can substitute with semi-sweet chocolate, but be prepared for a different taste experience.

When selecting your cashews, go for roasted rather than raw—this enhances their crunch and adds a lovely depth of flavor. If you have nut allergies or want a variation, sunflower seeds can serve as a fantastic replacement without compromising the bars' essential character.

Creating the Perfect Texture

Achieving a chewy yet crunchy texture is key for these bars. Ensure that you mix the ingredients thoroughly but without overworking them; this prevents the bars from becoming too dense. When you fold in the coconut and cashews, aim for an even distribution so that every bite is filled with both chocolate and nutty goodness.

Pressing down firmly when filling the baking dish is equally important. This step helps to compact the mixture, which in turn aids in achieving that ideal chewy texture. If you notice any loose ingredients while pressing, simply keep compacting until it holds together without crumbling.

Ingredients

For the Bars

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1 cup roasted cashews, coarsely chopped
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Mix all ingredients well to ensure an even combination!

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a saucepan over low heat, melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil, stirring continuously until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.

Add Cashews and Coconut

Fold in the chopped cashews and shredded coconut until fully incorporated.

Set the Mixture

Line a square baking dish with parchment paper and pour the mixture into it. Spread it out evenly and press down firmly.

Chill

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until set. Once firm, cut into bars and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Coconut Cashew Bars anytime!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the nuts and add dried fruits for variety. To make these bars vegan, ensure the chocolate chips are dairy-free.

Storage Tips

To keep your Chocolate Coconut Cashew Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will not only maintain their chewy texture but also extend their shelf life. They should stay good for about a week, but I doubt they'll last that long!

If you've made a larger batch or want to save some for later, these bars freeze wonderfully. Individually wrap each bar in parchment paper, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored this way for up to three months. Just allow them to thaw at room temperature for a bit before enjoying.

Serving Suggestions

These bars can be enjoyed on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream transforms them into a delightful dessert. Drizzle a bit of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra touch of flavor.

For a more nutritious twist, consider serving the bars with fresh fruit, such as strawberries or bananas. This not only adds another layer of flavor but also enhances the nutritional profile of your treat. The tartness of the fruit balances the sweetness of the bars perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cashews with another nut?

Yes, feel free to use almonds, walnuts, or even pecans for a different flavor.

→ How should I store these bars?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure that all your ingredients, especially the chocolate chips, are gluten-free.

→ Can I add protein powder to the recipe?

Yes, you can add a scoop of your favorite protein powder for an extra nutritious boost.