Description
Discover the delightful taste of classic Canadian Nanaimo Bars, a no-bake layered dessert featuring a crunchy cocoa base, creamy vanilla custard filling, and a smooth chocolate topping. Perfect for any occasion, these bars combine rich textures and flavors in every bite and are simple to prepare at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Layer
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Custard Layer
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp vanilla custard powder
- 2 large eggs
Chocolate Topping
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate
- 3 tbsp heavy cream or coconut milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, sugar, and chopped nuts if using. Melt the butter and mix it thoroughly into the dry ingredients until fully combined. Press this mixture evenly into a lined baking pan to form a firm, crunchy bottom layer.
- Make the Custard Layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until creamy. Gradually add the vanilla custard powder and eggs, mixing until smooth and fluffy. Spread this pale yellow custard mixture evenly over the base and refrigerate to set for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Chocolate Topping: Gently melt the semi-sweet chocolate with the heavy cream or coconut milk over low heat or using a double boiler. Stir until glossy and smooth. Pour the chocolate layer over the set custard and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the assembled Nanaimo Bars for 2 to 3 hours or until the chocolate topping is firm. Once set, slice into squares and enjoy the layered goodness.
Notes
- Use Room Temperature Butter: It blends more easily with sugar in the custard layer, creating a smoother texture.
- Chill Properly: Allow ample chilling time for clean, firm layers that make slicing and serving easier.
- Even Spreading: Use an offset spatula to get smooth, level layers and a professional finish.
- Quality Chocolate: Opt for good quality chocolate for the topping to maximize flavor and texture.
- Prevent Cracking: When slicing, dip your knife in hot water and wipe dry for neat edges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Canadian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (approx. 1.5 x 1.5 inch)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 60 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
Keywords: Nanaimo Bars, no-bake dessert, Canadian dessert, layered bars, custard bars, chocolate topping, gluten-free dessert option