Peanut Caramel Squares with Cocoa Cashew Base
We have made this cake in 5 minutes in front of audiences at festivals and events when doing Cooking demos and it is always a crowd pleaser. It is easy to make, healthier than most desserts and very satisfying. It's a popular choice in our cafes and offers a healthier alternative to traditional salted caramel tarts, thanks to its higher fibre content.
Takes 18 minutes
Serves 12
Ingredients
Base:
- 250 g cashew nuts about 2 cups
- 150 g pitted dates about 1 cup
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder about 1/8 cup
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil about 1/8 cup
Caramel:
- 300 g dates about 2 cups
- 150 g smooth peanut butter/almond butter about 2/3 cup
- 120 g coconut oil about 1/2 cup
- 6-10 tablespoons water about 1/3-2/3 cup
- A pinch of salt optional, to taste
- 1 tsp vanilla extract about 1/3 tbsp
Chocolate Topping:
- 300 g chocolate about 1 3/4 cups, chopped
- 4 tablespoons coconut oil about 1/4 cup
Instructions
For the base layer:
- Process cashews in a food processor until a flour-like consistency is obtained.
- Add dates, cocoa powder and coconut oil to the processor and blend until the mixture starts to come together.
- Line a brownie tray (23cm x 18cm x 5cm deep) with baking parchment
- Transfer the base mixture to the tin, spread evenly, and using the back of a tablespoon press firmly into the base to compact it.
For the caramel layer:
- Without cleaning the food processor, add the dates, peanut butter, coconut oil, and water. Blend until super smooth and caramel-like, adding more water if needed to achieve a smooth consistency. This may take from 5 to 10 mins
- If desired, add a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness and blend until the mixture reaches a toffee-like colour.
- Spread the caramel evenly over the base layer, using baking parchment on top to help smooth it out.
For the chocolate layer:
- Melt the chocolate and coconut oil together using a water bath, bain-marie or a microwave.
- Gently pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread it to create an even topping.
This sounds great love your recipes I will definitely try these.
Made this. I’m a good cook. It took me 40 mins from start to finish (incl washing/tidying up). Total Cost was €22 and I worked out calories. For 12 slices each slice has a whopping 570 calories Too much chocolate on top. I felt half the choc quantity would be better