Nanaimo Bars are a classic no-bake dessert that originated in Nanaimo, British Columbia. With three decadent layers—each one more delicious than the last—these bars are an irresistible treat. The bottom layer is a buttery, crumbly base, followed by a smooth custard-flavored middle, and topped off with a rich chocolate layer. Perfect for any occasion, they’re a crowd favorite that’s always met with smiles. Plus, you don’t need to turn on the oven, making them ideal for warm days or when you’re craving a sweet treat with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious layers:
Bottom Layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
Middle Layer:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder (or instant vanilla pudding mix)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 tablespoons milk
Top Layer:
- 4 oz semisweet or dark chocolate (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Bottom Layer:
In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and beaten egg. Mix well until smooth.
Stir in the graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts (if using). Mix until everything is well combined.
Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking. - Make the Middle Layer:
In a separate bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, custard powder (or pudding mix), and milk until smooth and creamy.
Spread the custard mixture evenly over the graham cracker base. - Prepare the Top Layer:
In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the chopped chocolate and butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate over the custard layer and spread it evenly with a spatula. - Chill:
Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour or until the chocolate is fully set and the layers are firm. - Slice and Serve:
Once the bars have set, remove from the fridge and cut into squares or rectangles. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 16
Calories per Serving: Approximately 220
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 17g
Protein: 2g
Preparation Time
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
How to Serve
- Arrange Nanaimo Bars on a decorative platter for a festive treat.
- Serve as part of a dessert spread at parties or gatherings.
- Pair with coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk for the perfect sweet bite.
- For an elegant touch, slice into small squares and serve on dessert plates.
Additional Tips
- Make It Ahead: Nanaimo Bars can be made a few days in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week.
- Customization: Add different nuts, such as pecans or hazelnuts, to the bottom layer for a fun twist.
- Extra Chocolate: Drizzle extra melted chocolate over the top for added decadence.
- Custard Substitute: If you can’t find custard powder, you can substitute with instant vanilla pudding mix for a similar flavor.
- Personalize the Base: For a gluten-free option, swap the graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.
Recipe Variations
- Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars: Replace the custard powder in the middle layer with peanut butter for a rich, nutty flavor.
- Mint Nanaimo Bars: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the custard layer for a refreshing minty twist.
- Chocolate Mint Bars: Mix crushed mint-flavored cookies or add a layer of mint chocolate to the top.
- Salted Caramel Nanaimo Bars: Add a layer of caramel sauce between the custard and chocolate layers for an indulgent treat.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside other bars like brownies, lemon bars, or blondies for a dessert buffet.
- Pair with a rich cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine to complement the sweet layers.
- Wrap in individual plastic or parchment squares for easy packaging as gifts or party favors.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing: Nanaimo Bars freeze well. Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Special Equipment
- 9×9-inch baking dish (or similar-sized dish)
- Parchment paper (optional for easy removal)
- Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
- Electric mixer (for the custard layer)
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different type of chocolate for the top layer?
A1: Yes! Feel free to use milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even flavored chocolates for a unique twist.
Q2: How can I make the bars gluten-free?
A2: Simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to make the bars entirely gluten-free.
Q3: Can I make these bars without custard powder?
A3: Yes! You can substitute the custard powder with instant vanilla pudding mix or leave it out entirely for a simpler, vanilla-flavored layer.
Q4: How long do the Nanaimo Bars need to chill?
A4: They need at least 1 hour in the fridge to allow the layers to firm up and set properly.
Q5: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A4: Absolutely! Nanaimo Bars can be made up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
These Nanaimo Bars are an absolute crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect balance of sweet, rich, and creamy flavors. With no baking required and a simple yet impressive presentation, they’re an easy-to-make treat that’s ideal for any occasion. Enjoy sharing this Canadian classic!
Print
Nanaimo Bars
- Total Time: 2 hours
Ingredients
Bottom Layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Middle Layer (Custard Filling):
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder (or vanilla pudding mix)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 tablespoons milk
Top Layer:
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
1. Prepare the Bottom Layer:
- In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder. Stir until smooth.
- Add the beaten egg and mix well. Pour in the graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and walnuts (if using). Stir until everything is well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an ungreased 9×9-inch (or similar size) baking pan. Use the back of a spoon to press it down evenly.
2. Make the Custard Layer:
- In a medium bowl, beat the powdered sugar, custard powder, softened butter, and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the custard mixture evenly over the graham cracker base, smoothing it out with a spatula. Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set.
3. Prepare the Top Layer:
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate and butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the custard layer and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate layer is fully set.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Cholesterol: 2g
