Cashews grow attached beneath a fleshy cashew apple, and after harvesting, the nuts are carefully removed, steamed or roasted to neutralize shell toxins, and peeled to reveal creamy white kernels. Their natural sweetness and buttery texture make them highly versatile from raw snacks to cashew butter, vegan creams, and confections. Loved for their creamy richness and subtle flavor, cashews shine in both indulgent desserts and savory dishes alike.