Nanaimo Bars are a delightful no-bake dessert that hails from Canada, specifically from Nanaimo, British Columbia. These bars are a trifecta of flavor and texture, with a crumbly base, a creamy middle layer, and a rich chocolate top. Each bite is a sweet moment of bliss, making them perfect for sharing at gatherings, or simply enjoying as a treat at home. Whether you’re a fan of chocolate, custard, or coconut, Nanaimo Bars have something for everyone!

What You’ll Need for Nanaimo Bars

To create these scrumptious Nanaimo Bars, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll be gathering:

125 g unsweetened cocoa powder
125 g unsweetened shredded coconut
125 g butter, melted
100 g granulated sugar
65 g graham cracker crumbs
1 egg
250 g powdered sugar
2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder
2 tablespoons milk
115 g semisweet chocolate, chopped
30 g butter

Step-by-Step Nanaimo Bars Recipe

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the simple process of making these delicious bars!

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cocoa powder, shredded coconut, melted butter, granulated sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. Mix everything together until well combined.
Once mixed, press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 20 cm (8-inch) square pan to form a solid base.
In another bowl, cream together the egg, powdered sugar, custard powder, and milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth. Spread this custard layer over the chocolate base in the pan.
Melt the semisweet chocolate and butter together. You can do this in a microwave in bursts or over a double boiler. Mix until smooth, and then pour it over the custard layer.
Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until they are set. Once set, cut them into squares and enjoy!

How to Serve Nanaimo Bars

Nanaimo Bars are perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. For a delightful presentation, arrange them on a beautiful platter, garnished with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or some extra shredded coconut on top. You can also consider pairing them with fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, which will add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the bars. For extra indulgence, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Expert Tips for Nanaimo Bars

Chill for Better Texture: Make sure to chill your Nanaimo Bars until they are fully set. This gives them a firmer texture and makes them easier to cut.
Customize Your Layers: Feel free to experiment with the middle layer! You could use flavored pudding mix in place of custard powder for a fun twist.
Storage: Keep any leftover Nanaimo Bars in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to a week, but good luck resisting them for that long!

Nanaimo Bars FAQs

Can I make Nanaimo Bars without an egg?

Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flaxseed mixture or a store-bought egg replacement if you prefer!

Do I have to use custard powder?

While custard powder adds a unique flavor, you can use vanilla pudding mix as a substitute.

Can I freeze Nanaimo Bars?

Yes, Nanaimo Bars freeze well! Just ensure they’re stored in an airtight container, and you can enjoy them at a later date.

These Nanaimo Bars are a must-try! With their tempting layers and satisfying sweetness, they are sure to become a favorite in your dessert collection. So roll up your sleeves and make a batch – your taste buds will thank you!

Print Recipe

Nanaimo Bars

Nanaimo Bars are a delightful no-bake dessert from Canada, with a crumbly base, creamy middle, and rich chocolate topping.

Prep Time15

Total Time2

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: Canadian

Keyword: Chocolate Treats, Custard Layer, Easy Recipes, Nanaimo Bars, no-bake dessert

Servings: 16 pieces

Calories: 250kcal

Ingredients

Base Layer

125 g unsweetened cocoa powder
125 g unsweetened shredded coconut
125 g butter, melted
100 g granulated sugar
65 g graham cracker crumbs

Custard Layer

1 large egg Can be substituted with a flaxseed mixture or egg replacement.
250 g powdered sugar
2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder Can be substituted with vanilla pudding mix.
2 tablespoons milk

Chocolate Topping

115 g semisweet chocolate, chopped
30 g butter

Instructions

Preparation

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cocoa powder, shredded coconut, melted butter, granulated sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. Mix everything together until well combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 20 cm (8-inch) square pan to form a solid base.