Chewy Chocolate Cashew Bars Recipe

There’s something inherently comforting about the union of chocolate and nuts, and when it comes to combining these flavors in a way that brings your family together, these Chewy Chocolate Cashew Bars are a winner. Imagine gathering your loved ones around the kitchen, the scent of melted chocolate wafting through the air, and the joy of creating something delightful together. These bars, with their perfect balance of chewiness and nutty crunch, are not just a treat but a journey of creativity and bonding. They are perfect for a cozy weekend baking session, a special after-dinner treat, or even as a delightful homemade gift.

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 16 bars
• Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

• 1 cup cashew nuts, roughly chopped
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (for drizzling)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang to easily lift the bars later.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. In a large bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, and beat until well incorporated.
4. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in the chopped cashews and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The bars will continue to set as they cool.
8. Once out of the oven, let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
9. To drizzle the chocolate, melt the remaining chocolate chips with the coconut oil in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bars.
10. Once the chocolate drizzle sets, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut them into 16 squares.

Helpful Tips

• For a more intense flavor, use dark chocolate chips and add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter.
• If you have nut allergies, substitute cashews with sunflower seeds or omit nuts altogether.
• For a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Pairings

These bars pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, a warm cup of chai, or a scoop of your favorite ice cream. For an extra treat, serve with fresh berries on the side.

At Zynahz, we believe in the magic of the kitchen to bring joy and creativity to your home. We hope these Chewy Chocolate Cashew Bars inspire you to try your hand at something new and delicious. Share your creations with us and join our community of food lovers. Spread the love by sharing these recipes with your friends and family. Remember to explore more of our delightful recipes, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter to stay updated. Happy cooking!