Nanaimo Bars
Indulge in the decadent delight of classic Nanaimo Bars, a no-bake Canadian dessert that features three irresistible layers of flavor and texture. This crowd-pleasing treat begins with a rich, chocolatey base made from graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and optional walnuts for added crunch. A luscious, velvety custard filling follows, brought to life with the distinctive flavor of vanilla custard powder, before being topped with a glossy layer of smooth semisweet chocolate. These layered bars are easy to assemble and require minimal cooking time, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings or holidays. With their beautiful presentation and melt-in-your-mouth appeal, Nanaimo Bars will become a favorite in your recipe repertoire!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup Unsalted butter
- 0.25 cup Granulated sugar
- 0.25 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 large Egg
- 1.5 cups Graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup Unsweetened shredded coconut
- 0.5 cup Chopped walnuts (optional)
- 0.5 cup Unsalted butter (for filling)
- 2 tablespoons Heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons Vanilla custard powder
- 2 cups Powdered sugar
- 0.5 cup Semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter (for topping)
Instructions
Grease an 8x8 inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
For the base: In a medium-sized saucepan over low heat, melt 1/2 cup of butter. Stir in 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder until smooth.
Beat the egg in a small bowl. Gradually whisk the egg into the saucepan. Continue cooking and stirring for 1–2 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and chopped walnuts (if using). Once fully combined, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Place in the refrigerator to cool while preparing the filling.
For the filling: In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1/2 cup butter, 2 tablespoons heavy cream, and 2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder until light and fluffy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is smooth. Spread the filling evenly over the chilled base, then return the pan to the refrigerator to set for about 15 minutes.
For the topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons butter in 30-second increments, stirring after each interval, until completely smooth.
Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the custard layer. Be quick to smooth it out, as the cold custard layer can cause the chocolate to set rapidly.
Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until all layers are firm. Use a sharp knife to cut into 16 squares, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.
Store the Nanaimo Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
341 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 23.2 g | 30% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.6 g | 68% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 50 mg | 17% | |
| Sodium | 71 mg | 3% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 33.8 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.2 g | 11% | |
| Total Sugars | 24.4 g | ||
| Protein | 3.3 g | 7% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.3 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 22 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 1.1 mg | 6% | |
| Potassium | 128 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
