Description
Nanaimo bars are a no-bake Canadian dessert with three luscious layers: a crunchy graham-coconut-nut base, a creamy custard-flavored middle, and a rich chocolate topping. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or indulgent snacking.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- Base:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or almonds
- Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons custard powder or instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- Topping:
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper.
- Make the base: In a saucepan over low heat, melt butter. Stir in sugar and cocoa powder. Add the beaten egg and cook, stirring constantly, for 1–2 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in graham crumbs, coconut, and nuts. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan.
- Make the filling: In a bowl, beat softened butter, custard powder, milk, and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread evenly over the base layer.
- Make the topping: Melt chocolate and butter together over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts. Stir until smooth, then pour over the filling. Tilt the pan to spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
- Slice into bars using a warm, sharp knife for clean cuts. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use pecans for a variation on the nutty base.
- Add espresso powder to the chocolate for a mocha flavor.
- Top with crushed nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt for flair.
- Bars can be frozen for up to 3 months with wax paper between layers.
- Let bars sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing to prevent chocolate from cracking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg