Nanaimo Bars with 6 Variations
Indulge in the irresistible decadence of *Nanaimo Bars with 6 Variations*, a no-bake dessert that layers rich chocolate, creamy custard, and a crunchy graham cracker base for a flavor-packed treat. These Canadian classics come to life with just 30 minutes of hands-on prep time and are easily customizable with six mouthwatering variations, from peppermint-infused Mint Nanaimo Bars to nutty Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars, and even gluten-free and vegan options. Perfect for any occasion, these bars combine simple ingredients like cocoa, shredded coconut, and silky custard powder, topped with a glossy chocolate finish. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or get creative with the suggested twists, these bars are guaranteed to impress at your next gathering!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup Unsalted butter
- 0.25 cup Granulated sugar
- 0.33 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 large Egg
- 1.5 cups Graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup Sweetened 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
- 1 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter (for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the base. In a saucepan over low heat, combine 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/3 cup cocoa powder, stirring until smooth.
Step 2: Gradually whisk in 1 large egg and cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Remove from heat and mix in 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, and 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional).
Step 4: Press this mixture firmly into an 8x8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill for 15 minutes.
Step 5: Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Beat together 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons heavy cream, 2 tablespoons custard powder, and 2 cups powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Step 6: Spread the custard mixture evenly over the chilled base. Return the pan to the refrigerator for another 20 minutes.
Step 7: Make the chocolate topping. Melt 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a microwave or double boiler, stirring until fully combined.
Step 8: Spread the melted chocolate over the custard filling, smoothing it out evenly.
Step 9: Allow the bars to set in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing into squares.
Variations:
Variation 1: Mint Nanaimo Bars - Add 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract to the custard layer and top with crushed candy canes.
Variation 2: Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars - Substitute 1/3 cup custard powder with 1/3 cup peanut butter in the filling.
Variation 3: Mocha Nanaimo Bars - Mix 2 teaspoons espresso powder into the filling for a coffee twist.
Variation 4: Raspberry Nanaimo Bars - Spread a thin layer of raspberry jam over the base before adding the custard layer.
Variation 5: Vegan Nanaimo Bars - Replace butter with coconut oil, use vegan graham crackers, and substitute custard powder with cornstarch.
Variation 6: Gluten-Free Nanaimo Bars - Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the base.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
360 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 22.9 g | 29% | |
| Saturated Fat | 12.8 g | 64% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 50 mg | 17% | |
| Sodium | 70 mg | 3% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 39.5 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.5 g | 12% | |
| Total Sugars | 28.9 g | ||
| Protein | 3.7 g | 7% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.3 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 20 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 1.1 mg | 6% | |
| Potassium | 115 mg | 2% | |
*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.
