Are raw cashews really that good for you?

Yes! Raw cashews are the way to go for this recipe and are an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, antioxidants, and fiber!

Are these suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These cashews store well in an airtight container and can be prepared in advance for a convenient snack option, upcoming gathering, or event. Portion ahead of time with snack size bags or containers and they'll be ready to grab on the go any day of the week!

Can I freeze chocolate cashews?

Yes! Just cool completely on the baking tray, break into pieces, then transfer to an air tight container. Store up to 2 months just in the freezer. Pro Tip : Portion into small snack bags for a grab and go snack that thaws in about 5 minutes!

What the heck are Hemp Hearts?

Tiny, nutty, protein-packed seeds. Just 3 tablespoons = 10g of protein. They’re also full of good stuff like fiber, omegas, and minerals. Toss them in smoothies, sprinkle on toast, stir into granola—so many options.

Can I double this recipe?

You can double or even triple this recipe with ease! Try making a bigger batch around the holidays either for parties or family get togethers. They even make excellent gifts or stocking stuffers when broken into smaller chunks, placed into clear gift bags and tied with a pretty ribbon!

Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?

Maple syrup really delivers the best flavor and is recommended, however, I did test this recipe using Agave Nectar and they turned out great. Agave tends to be slightly sweeter than maple syrup, but really wasn't noticeable here.

Crunchy Cocoa Candied Cashews – High Protein Snack

Name: Crunchy Cocoa Candies Cashews
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups raw cashews; 1/3 cup hemp hearts (also called hemp seeds); 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons coconut sugar; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon vanilla; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Description

Crispy, crunchy, chocolatey cocoa cashews. Perfect for an after school snack, taking on a hike, or for that moment when you're craving something sweet, but ya know, not too sweet?

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups raw cashews

1/3 cup hemp hearts (also called hemp seeds)

2 tablespoons cocoa powder

2 tablespoons coconut sugar

2 tablespoons maple syrup

1 teaspoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, coconut sugar, maple syrup, soy sauce, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt until a thick, glossy glaze forms.
Add the raw cashews (and hemp hearts, if using) to the bowl and toss until every cashew is fully coated in the cocoa glaze.
Spread the cashews into an even layer on your prepared baking sheet, breaking up any large clumps so they bake evenly.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the glaze looks dry and the cashews smell toasty and chocolatey.
Cool completely on the pan, then transfer the cashews to the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes to firm up and get their signature crunchy, candied coating.
Break apart any clusters and enjoy! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Equipment

Baking Sheets

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Parchment

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Measuring Cups and Spoons

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Mixing Bowl

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Notes

Raw Almonds or Raw Pecans can absolutely be substituted here instead of cashews! Hemp hearts, also called Hemp Seeds, can be found at most supermarkets in the baking aisle and pack a huge protein punch adding 10 grams to this recipe. However, if you can't find them simply replace with an additional 1/4 cup nuts.
Coconut sugar can be replaced if needed for an equal amount of granulated sugar or maple sugar.
Store them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The fridge also gives them that perfect crispy crunchy texture and is the best option especially if you live in a warm humid climate. However, they can also be stored in an air tight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 2 months. They thaw in just a few minutes on the counter.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Snack
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American