Rich Nanaimo Bars
Indulge in the irresistible decadence of these rich Nanaimo bars, a no-bake Canadian classic that layers bold flavors and luxurious textures. This three-tiered treat begins with a chewy, chocolatey base made from graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts, followed by a creamy, custard-infused middle layer with just the right touch of sweetness. Topped with a velvety, glossy layer of semi-sweet chocolate, each bite is a harmonious blend of crunch, creaminess, and rich cocoa goodness. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a sweet indulgence any day, these Nanaimo bars are easy to make with simple ingredients and can be prepared ahead of time. Serve chilled for the ultimate dessert experience!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Unsalted butter, melted
- 0.5 cup Granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 large Egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cups Graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup Sweetened shredded coconut
- 0.5 cup Chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds)
- 0.5 cup Unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons Heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons Vanilla custard powder
- 2 cups Powdered sugar
- 8 ounces Semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
Instructions
Prepare a 9x9-inch square pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
For the base layer: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine 1 cup melted butter, 0.5 cup granulated sugar, and 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder. Stir until smooth and well-combined.
Remove from heat and quickly whisk in 1 lightly beaten egg. Return the saucepan to low heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly (about 1–2 minutes).
Stir in 2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, and 0.5 cup chopped nuts. Mix until evenly combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
For the middle custard layer: In a mixing bowl, beat 0.5 cup softened butter, 2 tablespoons heavy cream, and 2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Spread this custard filling evenly over the chilled base layer. Return the pan to the refrigerator to set for about 15-20 minutes.
For the top chocolate layer: In a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water (double boiler), gently melt 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate and 2 tablespoons butter, stirring occasionally until smooth.
Remove the custard-layered pan from the refrigerator and pour the melted chocolate mixture over the top, spreading it evenly with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
Chill the assembled Nanaimo bars in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, or until fully set.
Once the bars have set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan. Slice into 16 squares using a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
454 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 30.0 g | 38% | |
| Saturated Fat | 17.3 g | 86% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 67 mg | 22% | |
| Sodium | 93 mg | 4% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 44.8 g | 16% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.7 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 34.1 g | ||
| Protein | 3.3 g | 7% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 26 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 1.0 mg | 5% | |
| Potassium | 134 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.
