How to Make Nanaimo Bars - A Step-by-Step Guide

If you are from Canada or have been lucky enough to taste these delicious treats, you know just how irresistible Nanaimo Bars are. Named after the city of Nanaimo in British Columbia, these no-bake dessert bars are a beloved Canadian classic. They consist of three layers: a crumbly, buttery base, a creamy custard-flavored middle, and a rich chocolate topping.

The origin of Nanaimo Bars is somewhat shrouded in mystery, with several claims to their creation. Some sources claim that the r...

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter, softened, divided
  • 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ¼ cup white sugar
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 ¾ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 cup flaked coconut
  • ½ cup finely chopped almonds (Optional)
  • 3 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons custard powder
  • 2 cups confectioners' sugar
  • 4 (1 ounce) squares semisweet baking chocolate
  • 2 teaspoons butter

Information

  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Total Time: 30 mins
  • Servings: 16
  • Yield: 1 (8-inch) square pan

  • In the top of a double boiler, combine 1/2 cup softened butter, cocoa powder, and sugar. Stir occasionally until melted and smooth. Beat in egg and stir until thick, 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Remove from the heat and mix in graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and almonds. Press into the bottom of an ungreased 8x8-inch pan.
  • For the middle layer, beat remaining 1/2 cup softened butter, heavy cream, and custard powder until light and fluffy. Mix in confectioners' sugar until smooth. Spread over the bottom layer in the pan. Chill to set.
  • While the second layer is chilling, melt semisweet chocolate and 2 teaspoons butter together in the microwave or over low heat.
  • Spread melted chocolate mixture over chilled bars. Let the chocolate set before cutting into squares.
  • Nutrition

    311 cal.

    • Total Fat: 20g
    • Saturated Fat: 11g
    • Cholesterol: 47mg
    • Sodium: 160mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 34g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Total Sugars: 26g
    • Protein: 3g
    • Calcium: 19mg
    • Iron: 1mg
    • Potassium: 87mg