Nanaimo Bars
Nanaimo Bars are a classic no-bake dessert originating from Nanaimo, British Columbia. These indulgent treats feature a rich, chocolate-coconut-graham base, a creamy custard-flavored middle layer, and a smooth chocolate topping. Perfect for holidays or any occasion!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (for the base)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Canadian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Bottom Layer:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 5 tbsp (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups (175g) graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup (65g) shredded sweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup (50g) chopped walnuts (optional)
Middle Layer:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 2 tbsp vanilla custard powder (or instant vanilla pudding mix)
- 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
Top Layer:
- 4 oz (115g) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Bottom Layer:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in sugar and cocoa powder until smooth.
- Gradually whisk in the beaten egg, cooking gently until the mixture thickens (about 1–2 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and walnuts.
- Press the mixture firmly into a greased or parchment-lined 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) pan. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the next layer.
- Prepare the Middle Layer:
- Beat together the softened butter, heavy cream, custard powder, and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Spread the custard mixture evenly over the chilled base layer. Return to the refrigerator to set.
- Prepare the Top Layer:
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water, or microwave in short intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Spread the melted chocolate over the custard layer. Smooth with an offset spatula.
- Refrigerate until the chocolate is firm.
- Cut and Serve:
- Let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting to prevent the chocolate layer from cracking.
- Slice into squares or bars and enjoy!
Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts and increase the amount of graham cracker crumbs slightly.
- Store Nanaimo Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
- Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Find it online: https://recipe.newsvks.com/nanaimo-bars/