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!
Smart Nutrition Tracking with SnapCalorie
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.
