Nanaimo Bars Recipe
Nanaimo Bars are a no-bake Canadian treat originating from the city of Nanaimo, British Columbia. These delicious bars feature three distinct layers: a crumbly base made with graham crackers, a creamy custard center, and a rich chocolate topping. This dessert is perfect for gatherings, offering a satisfying combination of textures and flavors. Plus, it’s simple to make and doesn’t require any baking!
Equipment
- 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Small saucepan for melting chocolate
Ingredients
- For the base:
- 1/2 cup 115g unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup 50g granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup 30g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 large egg beaten
- 1 3/4 cups 160g graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup 90g shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup 60g chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
- For the custard layer:
- 1/2 cup 115g unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups 250g powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder or vanilla pudding powder
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the chocolate topping:
- 4 ounces 115g semisweet or dark chocolate
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the base: In a medium bowl, stir together the melted butter, the sugar and the cocoa powder. Mix until smooth. Add in the beaten egg and stir again. Add the graham cracker crumbs, the shredded coconut and the chopped nuts (if using), and stir until the mixture is thoroughly combined. Firmly press this mixture into the base of an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking dish. Keep in the fridge while making the custard layer.
- Make the custard layer: Beat the soft butter, icing sugar, vanilla custard powder, milk and vanilla extract in another bowl until smooth and creamy. Pour the custard mixture directly onto the base layer, smoothing it out as needed.
- Make the chocolate topping: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the semisweet chocolate and butter, stirring often until smooth. Spread melted chocolate mixture over top of custard filling and soft with a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate the bars for at least 2-3 hours or until the chocolate topping has set and the bars are firm.
- Serve: Once chilled and firm, slice into squares. Enjoy!
Notes
Substitute options: You can substitute walnuts or almonds with any other nuts or omit them entirely for a nut-free version.
Customization: If you prefer a minty flavor, try adding a few drops of mint extract to the custard layer or chocolate topping.
Storage: Nanaimo Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week, or in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Customization: If you prefer a minty flavor, try adding a few drops of mint extract to the custard layer or chocolate topping.
Storage: Nanaimo Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week, or in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.