Cocoa Coconut Cashew Chia Treat (Printable Version)
Chocolatey no-bake cashew and coconut bites with chia - ready in 15 minutes, chilled to firm and stored refrigerated.
# Ingredient List:
→ Nuts & Seeds
01 - 1 cup raw cashews
02 - 3 tablespoons chia seeds
→ Chocolate & Sweeteners
03 - 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
04 - 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave syrup
05 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Coconut
06 - 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, plus extra for coating
→ Binding & Moisture
07 - 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
08 - 2 tablespoons almond milk or other plant-based milk
→ Seasoning
09 - 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
# How to Make It:
01 - Pulse raw cashews in a food processor until finely chopped, stopping before they turn into powder.
02 - Add chia seeds, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, maple syrup, vanilla extract, melted coconut oil, almond milk, and sea salt to the processor. Blend until the mixture becomes sticky and holds together when pressed between your fingers.
03 - Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll firmly between your palms to form even balls.
04 - Roll each ball in extra shredded coconut, pressing gently to ensure an even coating adheres to the surface.
05 - Arrange the coated balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
06 - Transfer to an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 1 week.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- They require zero baking, zero fancy equipment beyond a food processor, and zero patience beyond waiting for them to chill.
- The combination of cocoa and coconut tastes like a candy bar you get to feel good about eating.
02 -
- If you over-process the cashews into a paste, the treats will be dense and heavy rather than pleasantly crumbly.
- Wetting your hands slightly before rolling prevents the mixture from sticking to your palms.
03 -
- The mixture tastes even better on day two, so making them a day ahead is always a smart move.
- A tiny pinch of flaky salt on top of each ball right before chilling elevates them from snack to something you would proudly serve guests.