Traditional Canadian Nanaimo Bars

🕒 Prep: 30 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 8

If you're in the mood for a sweet treat that's uniquely Canadian, look no further than the classic Nanaimo Bars. These no-bake delights feature a rich combination of flavors and textures, bringing together chocolate, coconut, and a creamy custard layer.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect balance of textures: crunchy, creamy, and smooth.
  • No baking required, making it a quick and easy dessert option.
  • A crowd-pleaser at gatherings with its decadent layers.
  • Rich, chocolatey topping that satisfies any sweet tooth.

Ingredients

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
5 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 tablespoons heavy cream
4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Ingredients Explained

The base of our bars starts with graham cracker crumbs, giving it structure and a mild sweetness. The unsalted butter binds everything together and adds richness. A touch of granulated sugar sweetens the mix just right, while cocoa powder brings in that essential chocolatey note. For texture, sweetened shredded coconut and chopped walnuts add a delightful crunch and flavor.

The middle layer gets its creamy sweetness from powdered sugar and a special ingredient — vanilla custard powder — that thickens and flavors the custard. More butter and heavy cream ensure a rich and smooth consistency.

Finally, the top layer features semi-sweet chocolate, melted with unsalted butter for a glossy finish that ties all the layers together beautifully.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use room temperature butter for the custard layer for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
  • Press the base layer firmly to ensure it holds together well when cutting.
  • If you find the chocolate topping too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out slightly.

Detailed Instructions

First, grab a medium bowl and toss in your graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, and chopped walnuts. Stir them together until you have a well-blended mixture. This is your base layer, so press it firmly into an ungreased 9x9-inch baking dish. Pop it in the fridge for about 10 minutes to let it firm up.

While that's chilling, whip up the custard layer. In another bowl, beat together powdered sugar, custard powder, softened butter, and heavy cream until you get a smooth, creamy texture. Spread this evenly over your chilled base layer.

Next, let's tackle the chocolate topping. Melt your semi-sweet chocolate and butter together. You can do this in a double boiler or carefully in the microwave, stirring often until smooth. Pour this over your custard layer and spread it evenly with a spatula.

The final step is patience! Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is set. Then, slice into squares and enjoy.

Simplified Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, and chopped walnuts. Mix until well combined.
2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an ungreased 9x9-inch baking dish to form the base layer. Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, beat together powdered sugar, custard powder, softened butter, and heavy cream until smooth and creamy. Spread evenly over the chilled base layer.
4. Melt semi-sweet chocolate and 2 tablespoons of butter in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth. Pour over the custard layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
5. Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate topping is set. Cut into squares before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Nanaimo Bars are delightful on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the experience. For a bit of contrast, serve them alongside a tangy fruit salad. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter with a variety of treats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these bars nut-free?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chopped walnuts, or replace them with extra coconut or graham cracker crumbs.
What can I substitute for custard powder?
If you can't find custard powder, vanilla pudding mix is a good alternative.
How long do these bars keep?
They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

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