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A close-up of one square Nanaimo Bar showing the three distinct layers: crumbly base, bright yellow custard filling, and dark chocolate topping.

Classic Nanaimo Bars


  • Author: cocktailmixguide.com
  • Total Time: 25 min
  • Yield: 16 bars 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A simple recipe for the traditional no-bake Canadian dessert featuring a crumb base, custard filling, and chocolate topping.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang.
  2. For the base, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup butter, coconut, sugar, and cocoa powder in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat until butter melts and mixture is combined.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the egg. Mix well.
  4. Press the base mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan.
  5. For the custard filling, beat the powdered sugar, 1/4 cup softened butter, milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  6. Spread the custard filling evenly over the cooled base layer.
  7. Chill the bars for at least 30 minutes until the filling is firm.
  8. For the topping, melt the chocolate chips with the remaining 1/4 cup butter in a double boiler or microwave. Stir until smooth.
  9. Pour the melted chocolate over the custard layer and spread evenly.
  10. Refrigerate the bars until the chocolate is completely set, about 1 hour.
  11. Lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares.

Notes

  • Use finely ground graham cracker crumbs for a smoother base texture.
  • Ensure the base layer is packed tightly before adding the custard.
  • If the chocolate topping is too thick, add a few drops more milk to thin it slightly before pouring.
  • Prep Time: 20 min
  • Cook Time: 5 min
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No Bake
  • Cuisine: Canadian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 25
  • Sodium: 75
  • Fat: 15
  • Saturated Fat: 9
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 28
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 3
  • Cholesterol: 30

Keywords: Nanaimo Bars, Canadian dessert, no bake bars, chocolate custard squares, graham cracker crust