Cherry Dark Chocolate Cranberry Squares (Print)

No-bake cherry, cranberry, and dark chocolate squares offer a satisfying, nutritious snack with rich, chewy bite.

# Components:

→ Dried Fruits

01 - 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
02 - 1/2 cup dried cranberries
03 - 4 Medjool dates, pitted and chopped

→ Nuts & Seeds

04 - 1 cup raw almonds
05 - 1/2 cup raw walnuts
06 - 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
07 - 2 tablespoons chia seeds

→ Binders & Flavor

08 - 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
09 - 1/2 cup creamy almond butter
10 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
11 - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

→ Chocolate

12 - 2/3 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa), plus extra for drizzling (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Line an 8x8-inch square pan with parchment paper, extending it over the edges for easy removal.
02 - In a food processor, pulse almonds and walnuts until coarsely chopped. Add the chopped dates, dried cherries, dried cranberries, shredded coconut, and chia seeds. Continue pulsing until the mixture is well combined and sticky, maintaining some texture.
03 - In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and sea salt. Stir until smooth and warmed through.
04 - Pour the warm binder mixture into the food processor with the dry ingredients. Pulse until fully incorporated and the mixture is cohesive.
05 - Add the dark chocolate chips to the food processor and pulse a few times to distribute them, ensuring some chips remain whole.
06 - Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. If desired, melt additional dark chocolate and drizzle it over the surface for decoration.
07 - Refrigerate the pan for at least 1 hour, or until the mixture is completely firm.
08 - Remove the chilled block from the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into 16 squares. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 20 minutes with no baking required
  • Packed with nutrient-dense ingredients for sustained energy
  • Perfectly portable for on-the-go snacking
  • Customizable to your taste preferences
02 -
  • High in fiber and healthy fats for sustained energy
  • Contains no refined sugar only natural sweeteners
  • Perfect make-ahead snack that lasts all week
03 -
  • After years of making these squares, I've learned that the texture of your nut butter makes a significant difference. If it's too dry, add an extra tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. If too runny, increase the chia seeds by a tablespoon to absorb excess moisture.
  • Toasting the nuts and coconut before processing adds incredible depth of flavor, though it's optional if you're short on time.
  • For the cleanest cuts, chill the mixture thoroughly and use a knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between slices.
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