These Grand Marnier Nanaimo Bars offer a sophisticated upgrade to the traditional Canadian favorite. The base combines crisp graham cracker crumbs, toasted pecans, and coconut with a hint of cocoa for a rich, nutty foundation. The middle layer is a creamy, tangy curd infused with Grand Marnier and fresh orange zest, providing a bright citrus punch that cuts through the sweetness. Topped with a smooth, semi-sweet chocolate ganache, these bars deliver a perfect balance of textures and flavors. They are ideal for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or as an elegant dessert pairing with coffee or tea. Simple to assemble yet impressive in presentation.
Grand Marnier Nanaimo Bars
Description
These Grand Marnier Nanaimo Bars offer a sophisticated upgrade to the traditional Canadian favorite. The base combines crisp graham cracker crumbs, toasted pecans, and coconut with a hint of cocoa for a rich, nutty foundation. The middle layer is a creamy, tangy curd infused with Grand Marnier and fresh orange zest, providing a bright citrus punch that cuts through the sweetness. Topped with a smooth, semi-sweet chocolate ganache, these bars deliver a perfect balance of textures and flavors.Ingredients
Directions
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In a large bowl, stir together the graham wafer crumbs, coconut, and chopped pecans.
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In a small saucepan, gently heat 2/3 cup butter, cocoa powder, and sugar until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth.
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Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the beaten egg.
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Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredient bowl and blend until evenly combined.
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Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared 9-inch square pan.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
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Remove from oven and let the base cool completely on a wire rack.
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For the Grand Marnier layer, place half of the icing sugar and the 1/4 cup softened butter in a mixing bowl.
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Beat the butter and icing sugar together until creamy.
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Mix in the Grand Marnier, remaining icing sugar, and grated orange rind until a smooth paste forms.
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Spread the Grand Marnier mixture evenly over the cooled base layer.
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For the chocolate topping, stir 1 tablespoon butter into the melted semi-sweet chocolate until smooth.
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Spread the chocolate mixture evenly over the Grand Marnier layer.
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Refrigerate the bars for at least 20 minutes, or until the chocolate topping is set.
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Cut into squares and serve.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 16
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 926.1kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 81.2g125%
- Saturated Fat 42.1g211%
- Cholesterol 143.6mg48%
- Sodium 1851.4mg78%
- Total Carbohydrate 26.2g9%
- Dietary Fiber 13.3g54%
- Sugars 6.6g
- Protein 39.1g79%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Bars can be covered and refrigerated for up to 2 weeks, or frozen for up to 2 months. Allow to soften slightly at room temperature before serving for best texture.
Variation: For Classic Nanaimo Bars, substitute milk for the Grand Marnier and add 1/2 tsp vanilla extract to the middle layer. Substitute 2 tsp grated lemon rind for the orange rind.
Tip: Ensure the base layer is cooled completely before adding the Grand Marnier layer to prevent melting and ensure clean layers.
