These revisionist Nanaimo bars offer a sophisticated twist on the classic Canadian no-bake dessert. The foundation is a sturdy, sweet layer of graham cracker crumbs bound with melted chocolate and butter. Sandwiched between is a luscious middle layer made from vanilla pudding, butter, and icing sugar, providing a smooth, creamy contrast to the crumbly base. The top layer is a thin, glossy coating of melted unsweetened chocolate, adding a deep, bittersweet finish that balances the sweetness of the layers below. Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or a quick afternoon treat, these bars require no baking and come together quickly. The combination of textures&# 226;ÂÂcrunchy, creamy, and silkyâÂÂmakes for an indulgent bite that satisfies any chocolate craving.
Nanaimo Bars – Revisionist
Description
These revisionist Nanaimo bars offer a sophisticated twist on the classic Canadian no-bake dessert. The foundation is a sturdy, sweet layer of graham cracker crumbs bound with melted chocolate and butter. Sandwiched between is a luscious middle layer made from vanilla pudding, butter, and icing sugar, providing a smooth, creamy contrast to the crumbly base. The top layer is a thin, glossy coating of melted unsweetened chocolate, adding a deep, bittersweet finish that balances the sweetness of the layers below. Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or a quick afternoon treat, these bars require no baking and come together quickly. The combination of textures&# 226;ÂÂcrunchy, creamy, and silkyâÂÂmakes for an indulgent bite that satisfies any chocolate craving.Ingredients
Directions
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Melt 1/2 cup butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
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Whisk in sugar, cocoa, and peppermint extract until smooth.
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Remove from heat and beat in the egg until well combined.
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Stir in the graham cracker crumbs until evenly coated.
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Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a greased 8-inch square pan.
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In a medium bowl, cream together the remaining 1/4 cup butter, vanilla pudding, and icing sugar until smooth and creamy.
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Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the crumb layer in the pan.
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Melt the unsweetened chocolate with the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in short bursts in the microwave.
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Pour the melted chocolate over the pudding layer and spread gently to cover.
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Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm before cutting into squares.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 36
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1458.7kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 60.1g93%
- Saturated Fat 35.2g177%
- Cholesterol 201.0mg67%
- Sodium 1892.1mg79%
- Total Carbohydrate 199.7g67%
- Dietary Fiber 21.6g87%
- Sugars 167.2g
- Protein 41.9g84%
* 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 bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before serving.
Ingredient Note: The recipe lists "Vanilla pudding" as an ingredient. This typically refers to instant pudding mix or prepared pudding. If using instant mix, prepare according to package directions first.
Variation: Traditional Nanaimo bars often use coconut and nuts in the bottom layer. This revisionist version uses graham crackers and cocoa for a different texture and flavor profile.
Tip: For easier cutting, wipe the knife clean between cuts or use a sharp chef's knife.
