Nanaimo bars are a beloved Canadian no-bake dessert featuring three distinct layers. The base is a sweet, crumbly mixture of graham crackers, coconut, and almonds bound with butter and cocoa. The middle layer is a smooth, rich custard-flavored buttercream that provides a creamy contrast. The top is a glossy, slightly bitter chocolate ganache that ties the flavors together. These bars offer a perfect balance of textures and sweetness, making them an ideal treat for potlucks, holidays, or a simple afternoon snack. They require no baking, just assembly and chilling, making them accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Nanaimo Bars (Canadian
Description
Nanaimo bars are a beloved Canadian no-bake dessert featuring three distinct layers. The base is a sweet, crumbly mixture of graham crackers, coconut, and almonds bound with butter and cocoa. The middle layer is a smooth, rich custard-flavored buttercream that provides a creamy contrast. The top is a glossy, slightly bitter chocolate ganache that ties the flavors together. These bars offer a perfect balance of textures and sweetness, making them an ideal treat for potlucks, holidays, or a simple afternoon snack. They require no baking, just assembly and chilling, making them accessible for cooks of all skill levels.Ingredients
Directions
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Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving overhang for easy removal.
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For the base: Melt 1/2 cup butter in a double boiler over barely simmering water.
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Stir in sugar and cocoa powder until melted and smooth.
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Remove from heat and stir in the beaten egg until well combined.
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Fold in graham wafer crumbs, sweetened coconut, and chopped almonds.
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Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
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Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes.
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For the filling: Beat 1/2 cup softened butter until creamy.
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Mix in custard powder and gradually beat in icing sugar until light and fluffy.
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Spread the custard mixture evenly over the chilled base layer.
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Return the pan to the refrigerator to chill for 15 minutes.
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For the topping: Melt chocolate and 2 tablespoons butter in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth.
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Let the chocolate mixture cool slightly to room temperature to thicken.
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Spread the chocolate topping evenly over the custard layer.
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Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
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Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 16
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 854.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 65.8g102%
- Saturated Fat 35.2g177%
- Cholesterol 114.9mg39%
- Sodium 1591.1mg67%
- Total Carbohydrate 42.7g15%
- Dietary Fiber 13.8g56%
- Sugars 21.6g
- Protein 38.6g78%
* 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: Keep Nanaimo bars covered in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months.
Substitutions: If custard powder is unavailable, you can substitute with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Tips: Ensure the base is pressed down firmly to prevent crumbling. For easier cutting, dip your knife in hot water between cuts.
Safety: When using a double boiler, ensure the water does not boil vigorously to prevent scorching the chocolate or butter.
