Description
Classic Nanaimo Bars are a no-bake layered dessert bar featuring a chewy chocolate-coconut-nut base, a creamy custard-flavored buttercream center, and a smooth chocolate topping. This Canadian favorite is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you want an easy yet indulgent treat.
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup granulated sugar
5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 large egg, beaten
1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or almonds
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder (like Bird’s)
2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
2 cups powdered sugar
4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
1. In a heat-safe bowl over simmering water, melt butter, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder, stirring until smooth.
2. Slowly whisk in the beaten egg and cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and chopped nuts.
4. Press mixture evenly into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking pan. Chill for 10–15 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, beat together butter, custard powder, cream, and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
6. Spread the custard filling over the chilled base. Chill again for 20–30 minutes.
7. Melt chocolate chips and butter together using a double boiler or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.
8. Pour melted chocolate over the custard layer and spread evenly. Chill until the chocolate is set (about 30 minutes).
9. Remove from pan using parchment paper and slice into squares using a hot knife for clean cuts.
Notes
Always chill between layers to ensure clean, even stacking and slicing.
Use a hot, clean knife to prevent cracking through the chocolate top.
Make ahead the day before for the best texture and flavor melding.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert Bars
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Canadian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 23
- Sodium: 90
- Fat: 19
- Saturated Fat: 11
- Unsaturated Fat: 7
- Trans Fat: 0.1
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 2
- Cholesterol: 45
Keywords: no-bake dessert, Nanaimo Bars, Canadian dessert, layered bars, custard dessert