Nanaimo Bars

Nanaimo Bars

Nanaimo Bars are a delicious no-bake dessert that originated from Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada. This sweet treat features three distinct layers: a crumbly base, a creamy custard filling, and a rich chocolate topping. Each bite offers a wonderful mix of flavors and textures, making it a favorite for many.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Nanaimo Bars is a great way to enjoy a classic dessert without needing to turn on the oven. They are simple to prepare, only require a few ingredients, and can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a sweet treat at home. Plus, who can resist the combination of chocolate, custard, and coconut?

How to Make Nanaimo Bars

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 3/4 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts (optional)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (for middle layer)
• 2 tablespoons custard powder (or vanilla pudding mix)
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 1/2 – 2 cups powdered sugar
• 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate (or 50-60% dark chocolate)
• 2 teaspoons oil

Directions:

1. Prepare the Base: In a saucepan, melt the butter, cocoa powder, and sugar together over low heat. Add the egg, stirring quickly, and cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and mix in graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and walnuts (if using). Press this mixture into the bottom of an 8×8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.

2. Make the Middle Layer: In a medium bowl, beat together the butter, custard powder, heavy cream, and powdered sugar. Spread this custard mixture over the cooled base, smoothing it into an even layer.

3. Prepare the Chocolate Topping: Melt the chocolate and oil together in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring in between until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the custard layer, spreading it evenly.

4. Chill: Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 1/2 hours to allow the layers to set properly.

5. Serve: Once chilled and set, cut the Nanaimo bars into squares or rectangles and enjoy!

How to Serve Nanaimo Bars

Nanaimo Bars are best served cold. You can plate them beautifully, or simply serve them directly from the refrigerator. They pair nicely with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect afternoon treat.

How to Store Nanaimo Bars

To keep Nanaimo Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.

Tips to Make Nanaimo Bars

• Make sure to stir the egg quickly while adding it to the warm mixture to avoid scrambling.
• For a smoother custard layer, sift the powdered sugar to remove any clumps before mixing.
• To cut cleaner squares, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water to make each cut.

Variation

Feel free to customize your Nanaimo Bars! You can add different nuts or even use flavored chocolate for the topping. If you prefer a more indulgent version, a layer of peanut butter can be added to the custard filling.

FAQs

1. Can I use something other than custard powder?
Yes! You can use vanilla pudding mix instead of custard powder for a similar flavor.

2. Is there a way to make Nanaimo Bars healthier?
You can reduce the sugar in the base or use a healthier sweetener. Additionally, you can substitute coconut oil for butter in the base.

3. Do I have to use walnuts in the base?
No, walnuts are optional. You can leave them out or substitute with other nuts like almonds or pecans, depending on your preference.

Enjoy making your delicious Nanaimo Bars! These sweet treats are sure to impress anyone with their rich flavor and delightful texture.

Nanaimo Bars

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• Author: olivia
• Total Time: 90 minutes
• Yield: 16 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Nanaimo Bars are a delicious no-bake dessert featuring layers of crumbly base, creamy custard filling, and rich chocolate topping.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 3/4 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts (optional)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (for middle layer)
• 2 tablespoons custard powder (or vanilla pudding mix)
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 1/2 – 2 cups powdered sugar
• 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate (or 50-60% dark chocolate)
• 2 teaspoons oil

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Instructions

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter, cocoa powder, and sugar together over low heat. Add the egg, stirring quickly, and cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and mix in graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and walnuts (if using). Press this mixture into the bottom of an 8×8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, beat together the butter, custard powder, heavy cream, and powdered sugar. Spread this custard mixture over the cooled base, smoothing it into an even layer.
3. Melt the chocolate and oil together in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring in between until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the custard layer, spreading it evenly.
4. Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 1/2 hours to allow the layers to set properly.
5. Once chilled and set, cut the Nanaimo bars into squares or rectangles and enjoy!

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: Canadian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Nanaimo Bars, no-bake dessert, Canadian dessert, sweet treats, chocolate dessert