If you're looking for a quick, no-fuss treat that’s indulgent, nutritious, and crowd-pleasing, these strawberry and cashew chocolate bites are going to become your go-to recipe. Ready with just a handful of ingredients and in 15 minutes, these delightful little bites are perfect for snacking, gifting, or serving at a party. They strike the perfect balance between sweetness, crunch, and creamy chocolate richness while being deceptively simple to make.
They are ready in 15 minutes, with zero baking required. Also, they call for only four main ingredients, which are dark chocolate, strawberries, cashews, and a pinch of salt. Of course, they are deeply customizable, and you can add your own spin with spices, flavorings, or other nuts and dried fruit. Also, they look gourmet but are healthier than most store-bought sweets. So whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, let’s dive in, since this recipe requires no special equipment, no complicated steps, and no baking.
Ingredients (Makes 14 bites):
- 200 g dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa preferred)
- ½ cup raw or roasted cashews, roughly chopped
- ½ cup freeze-dried or finely chopped dried strawberries
- ¼ tsp flaky sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Optional add-ins:
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or rose water for aroma
- 1 tsp coconut oil for extra smoothness
- 1 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds for a healthy boost
Method:
- Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will be your surface for setting the chocolate bites. Make sure there’s space in your fridge or freezer to chill them later.
- Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heatproof bowl. You can melt using the double boiler method where you place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, stirring until smooth and glossy. Or you can heat it in the microwave in 20 second intervals, stirring between each round until completely melted. Optionally, add in 1 tsp of coconut oil for a silkier consistency, especially if you're using higher-cocoa chocolate.
- Once the chocolate is melted and smooth, stir in the chopped cashews and strawberries. Mix well to ensure they’re evenly coated. You can also add vanilla extract or a touch of rose water at this stage for subtle aroma and complexity.
- Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, drop clusters of the chocolate mixture onto the prepared tray. Leave a little space between each bite. Aim for uneven clusters rather than perfect rounds, since that adds charm and character.
- While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on each bite for contrast. Or you can also top each bite with a single dried strawberry slice or cashew piece. You can also experiment with flavors by adding a pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, or chili powder to the melted chocolate. Or replace cashews with toasted coconut flakes or macadamia nuts for variety. You can also add a tablespoon of granola for added texture. Alternatively, stir in crushed dried mint or basil leaves for a unique flavor burst.
- Now transfer the tray to the fridge for 15 minutes or the freezer for 8 minutes, or until the chocolate is set and firm to the touch.
- Once firm, your strawberry and cashew chocolate bites are ready to enjoy. If serving at a party, arrange on a platter with fresh fruit, cheese cubes, and crackers for an elegant spread. Or as an after-dinner treat, they can be served chilled with a cup of coffee, masala chai, or dessert wine. You can even pack them in a decorative box or jar with a ribbon, since they are the ideal gift for birthdays, housewarming events, or festive hampers. And if they are just for you, keep a batch in the fridge for mid-day energy without the sugar crash.
- Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 10 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Tips:
- Use good quality chocolate since this is the core flavor. So look for a brand with smooth melting properties and rich taste.
- Chocolate can harden fast, so stir in the additions, spoon it onto the tray and garnish each bite in a swift sequence. Have everything laid out and ready before you melt the chocolate.