Nanaimo Bar

Lori Wilson

The Nanaimo bar is a no-bake Canadian classic built from three distinct layers: a coconut and cocoa crumb base, a vanilla custard buttercream center, and a firm chocolate topping. Assembly takes about 30 minutes, followed by a couple of hours in the refrigerator until the layers set and the bars slice cleanly.

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Prep Time 25

Cook Time 10

Total Time 35

Course Dessert

Cuisine Other European

Servings bars

Calories 339 kcal

Equipment

8x8-inch baking dish
Mixing Bowls
Saucepan
Spatula

Ingredients

For the Bottom Layer:

½ cup unsalted butter melted
¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup cocoa powder preferably Dutch-processed
1 large egg beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup shredded coconut sweetened or unsweetened
½ cup walnuts finely chopped

For the Middle Layer:

½ cup unsalted butter softened
2 cups confectioners' sugar sifted
2 tablespoons custard powder such as Bird's
2 tablespoons milk

For the Top Layer:

4 ounces semisweet chocolate
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

Bottom Layer: In a saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over low heat. Stir in the sugar and cocoa powder until smooth. Remove from the heat and quickly mix in the beaten egg to thicken. Add vanilla, then mix in graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and walnuts. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of an ungreased 8x8 inch baking dish.
Middle Layer: In a medium bowl, cream together softened butter, confectioners' sugar, custard powder, and milk until light and fluffy. Spread evenly over the bottom layer and chill until set, about 15 minutes.
Top Layer: Melt semisweet chocolate with butter over low heat, stirring until smooth. Allow cooling slightly. Pour over the chilled middle layer, spreading evenly. Chill again until chocolate is set, about 10 minutes.

Notes

Lori’s Tips:

For a twist, add a tablespoon of instant espresso powder to the bottom layer for a coffee-infused base.
If custard powder is unavailable, try an equal amount of vanilla pudding mix.
Ensure each layer is fully set before proceeding to the next for the best presentation.
Adjust sugar levels to taste.

Nutrition

Calories: 339kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 3gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 51mgSodium: 97mgPotassium: 136mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 426IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 31mgIron: 1mg

Keyword chocolate bar, nanaimo bar, no-bake dessert

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