Healthy Cashew Coconut Snack Clusters

Name: Healthy Cashew Coconut Snack Clusters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 clusters
Ingredients: 1 cup cashews, chopped; 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Healthy Recipe Vault

I love creating easy snacks that are both nutritious and delicious, and these Healthy Cashew Coconut Snack Clusters are a perfect solution. Combining crunchy cashews and sweet coconut, they not only satisfy my cravings but also give me a boost of energy. In just 15 minutes, I can whip up a batch of these delightful clusters. They're perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a guilt-free treat during the day. Plus, they're made with simple ingredients that I already have in my pantry!

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-16T06:29:37.229Z

Making these Healthy Cashew Coconut Snack Clusters was a delightful experiment in my kitchen. I wanted to create a snack that would energize me but wouldn't derail my health goals. Using minimal sweeteners and keeping the ingredients natural was key to maintaining their health benefits. By toasting the coconut slightly, I discovered that it brought out a richer flavor that pairs perfectly with the nuts.

Throughout my trials, I found that allowing the clusters to cool completely before enjoying them prevents them from falling apart. When they set properly, they hold their shape and offer a wonderful crunch with every bite. It's a simple trick that elevates the whole experience!

Why You'll Love These Clusters
Nutty flavor enhanced by naturally sweet coconut
Quick to make, perfect for busy lifestyles
Great energy boost without the guilt

The Role of Cashews and Coconut

Cashews provide a rich, nutty flavor and essential healthy fats that make these snack clusters both satisfying and energizing. They are a good source of protein, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are vital for bone health and energy production. The creamed texture of cashews works beautifully with the coconut, adding a delightful contrast in texture within each cluster.

Coconut, on the other hand, introduces a natural sweetness and chewiness that complements the crunch of the cashews. The unsweetened shredded coconut helps to balance the sweetness of honey or maple syrup, giving you a wholesome treat without an overwhelming sugar rush. This combination not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the snack’s nutritional value.

Perfecting the Cluster Shape

When forming the clusters, using about a tablespoon of the mixture ensures a uniform size, which helps them bake evenly. If you notice the mixture is too crumbly, you can squeeze it tightly in your palm to help it hold its shape before placing it on the baking sheet. For those looking for a more compact cluster, consider pressing the mixture down slightly after placing it on the sheet.

Leave enough space between each cluster on the baking sheet to allow them to expand slightly during baking. This spacing prevents them from merging into a single mass, ensuring the individual clusters retain their distinct shape and texture. If they do stick together, simply let them cool completely and break apart before storing.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious snack:

Ingredients

1 cup cashews, chopped
1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your snack clusters:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped cashews, shredded coconut, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well coated.

Form the Clusters

Scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and form into clusters. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cluster.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let the clusters cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a storage container.

Enjoy your healthy snacks anytime you need an energy boost!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding in some dark chocolate chips or dried fruit. Adjust the sweetness to your taste by modifying the amount of honey or maple syrup used.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Healthy Cashew Coconut Snack Clusters can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. However, if you live in a particularly warm climate, consider refrigerating them to maintain their crispness and prevent any potential melting of the honey or syrup. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just place parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking together.

To make a larger batch, simply double or even triple the quantities, maintaining the same ratio of ingredients. These clusters are perfect for meal prepping, providing you with a convenient and healthy snack ready to go. Just be mindful that baking time may increase slightly when you scale up, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes in the oven.

Variations and Dietary Swaps

Feel free to customize these clusters! You can add dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a chewy element, or throw in some seeds such as chia or flaxseed for extra fiber. If you're looking to make the clusters nut-free, sunflower seeds can be a great substitute for cashews while still delivering a satisfying crunch.

For those avoiding added sugars, consider substituting the honey or maple syrup with a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit sweetener. This will help maintain the sweetness without impacting blood sugar levels. Just be cautious, as some sugar substitutes may alter the final texture slightly, so adjust the quantity accordingly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Yes! Feel free to substitute cashews with your favorite nuts like almonds or walnuts.

→ How do I store these clusters?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I make these clusters vegan?

Absolutely! Just use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option.

→ What can I serve these with?

These clusters are delicious on their own, or you can pair them with yogurt or a smoothie for a nutritious snack.