Nanaimo Bars
Nanaimo Bars are a delightful Canadian dessert, famous for their rich flavor and layered texture. Imagine biting into a sweet, chocolaty top layer, creamy custard in the middle, and a crumbly, nutty base beneath it. Not only are they delicious, but they also carry a piece of Canadian history, making them a staple at gatherings, holidays, and family get-togethers. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe that recreates the original Nanaimo Bars, bringing their sweet charm right to your kitchen!
What You’ll Need for Original Nanaimo Bars
To make the best Original Nanaimo Bars, gather these ingredients:
For the First Layer:
- 125g unsalted butter
- 50g sugar
- 40g cocoa powder
- 1 large egg
- 10ml vanilla extract
- 200g graham crumbs
- 75g shredded coconut
- 75g walnuts, finely chopped
For the Middle Layer:
- 170g butter
- 90ml milk
- 40g Bird’s custard powder
- 500g icing sugar
For the Top Layer:
- 140g chocolate
- 30g butter or oil
Step-by-Step Original Nanaimo Bars Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Nanaimo Bars:
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Prepare Your Pan: Line a 9 x 9 inch square pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper and set it aside.
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Make the Base Layer: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham crumbs, shredded coconut, and chopped walnuts.
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Combine in a Saucepan: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine 125g butter, 50g sugar, and 40g cocoa powder. Stir until the mixture begins to boil.
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Add the Egg and Vanilla: Boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in the egg and 10ml of vanilla extract.
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Mix It All Together: Add the graham mixture to the saucepan and stir well. Press this mixture firmly into the prepared pan.
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Chill the Base: Place the pan in the fridge and let the base cool and firm up for about 30 minutes.
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Prepare the Custard Icing: In a mixing bowl, combine the custard powder with 90ml milk and stir until smooth. Then, add 500g icing sugar and 170g butter, mixing on high speed for about 3 to 5 minutes until creamy.
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Spread the Custard Layer: Spread this custard icing evenly over the chilled base layer, then return the pan to the fridge.
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Make the Chocolate Ganache: Using a double boiler method, melt 140g of chocolate together with 30g of butter (or oil). Stir until fully melted and smooth.
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Top the Bars: Pour the melted chocolate ganache over the custard layer, spreading it evenly.
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Final Chill: Refrigerate the bars for at least one more hour, or until everything is set.
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Cut and Serve: Once firm, cut the Nanaimo Bars into your favorite size or shape. Enjoy!
Serve & Enjoy Original Nanaimo Bars
When it comes time to serve your Original Nanaimo Bars, cut them into small squares or rectangles for easy sharing. These bars pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon snacks or dessert after dinner. You can also elevate their presentation by placing them on a decorative platter.
Helpful Tricks for Original Nanaimo Bars
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Storage Tip: Keep leftover Nanaimo Bars in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for several days, just be sure to separate each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Flavor Variation: Want to switch things up? Try adding a splash of coconut extract to the custard layer for an extra tropical twist. You can also alternate the nuts; pecans work wonderfully in place of walnuts.
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Chocolate Options: If you prefer a sweeter topping, use milk chocolate instead of dark. For a bolder taste, consider a fine dark chocolate to complement the sweetness of the custard.
Original Nanaimo Bars: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make Nanaimo Bars without eggs?
A: Yes! You can substitute the egg with a mixture of flaxseed meal and water or use a store-bought egg replacement.
Q: How do I prevent my chocolate from seizing?
A: Avoid overheating your chocolate while melting. Stir continuously and use low heat to keep it smooth and easy to spread.
Q: Can I freeze Nanaimo Bars?
A: Absolutely! Just cut them into pieces, layer them with parchment paper, and store in an airtight container before freezing.
Give this Original Nanaimo Bars recipe a try, and you’ll soon find out why they hold a special place in many hearts. Enjoy baking and savoring these delicious treats with family and friends!
Nanaimo Bars
Ingredients
First Layer
- 125 g unsalted butter
- 50 g sugar
- 40 g cocoa powder
- 1 large egg
- 10 ml vanilla extract
- 200 g graham crumbs
- 75 g shredded coconut
- 75 g walnuts, finely chopped
Middle Layer
- 170 g butter
- 90 ml milk
- 40 g Bird’s custard powder
- 500 g icing sugar
Top Layer
- 140 g chocolate
- 30 g butter or oil
Instructions
Preparation
- Line a 9 x 9 inch square pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper and set it aside.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the graham crumbs, shredded coconut, and chopped walnuts.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine 125g butter, 50g sugar, and 40g cocoa powder. Stir until the mixture begins to boil.
- Boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in the egg and 10ml of vanilla extract.
- Add the graham mixture to the saucepan and stir well. Press this mixture firmly into the prepared pan.
- Place the pan in the fridge and let the base cool and firm up for about 30 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the custard powder with 90ml milk and stir until smooth. Then, add 500g icing sugar and 170g butter, mixing on high speed for about 3 to 5 minutes until creamy.
- Spread this custard icing evenly over the chilled base layer, then return the pan to the fridge.
- Using a double boiler method, melt 140g of chocolate together with 30g of butter (or oil). Stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate ganache over the custard layer, spreading it evenly.
- Refrigerate the bars for at least one more hour, or until everything is set.
- Once firm, cut the Nanaimo Bars into your favorite size or shape. Enjoy!
