Nanaimo Bar

Indulge in the irresistible decadence of classic Nanaimo Bars, a no-bake Canadian dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. This three-layer treat begins with a rich and chewy base of graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and crushed nuts, bound together with a buttery chocolate mixture. The middle layer is a luscious, creamy custard filling, perfectly balanced with a hint of vanilla, while the finale is a smooth, glossy layer of melted semi-sweet chocolate. Ready in just 30 minutes of prep time and perfect for chilling in the fridge, these no-bake bars are ideal for holidays, parties, or any occasion that calls for a sweet indulgence. Elegant yet approachable, Nanaimo Bars showcase the ultimate combination of textures and flavors—crunchy, creamy, and chocolatey in every bite!

Nutriscore Rating: 41/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:0 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 16

Ingredients

• 0.5 cup unsalted butter
• 0.25 cup granulated sugar
• 0.25 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 0.5 cup chopped walnuts or almonds
• 0.5 cup unsalted butter (for custard layer)
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons custard powder
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Directions

Step 1

Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to help lift the bars out later.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 1/2 cup of butter. Stir in granulated sugar and cocoa powder until well combined.

Step 3

Add the beaten egg while stirring constantly to avoid scrambling, and cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and nuts. Mix well.

Step 5

Press this mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan to form an even base layer. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the custard layer.

Step 6

For the custard layer, using an electric mixer, beat 1/2 cup of butter until smooth. Add heavy cream and custard powder, mixing to combine.

Step 7

Gradually beat in powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.

Step 8

Spread the custard mixture evenly over the chilled base layer, then return to the refrigerator to set.

Step 9

For the top chocolate layer, melt chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of butter gently in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth.

Step 10

Allow the chocolate to cool slightly but not harden, then spread evenly over the custard layer.

Step 11

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until completely set.

Step 12

Using the parchment overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and cut into squares using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife clean after each cut for neat edges.

Step 13

Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious Nanaimo Bars!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1221.4 grams (1221.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	5647

Total Fat 324.60g	416%
Saturated Fat 174.50g	873%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 660mg	220%
Sodium 1753mg	76%
Total Carbohydrate 710.70g	258%
Dietary Fiber 48.80g	174%
Total Sugars 468.40g
Protein 59.80g	120%

Vitamin D 99IU	497%
Calcium 323mg	25%
Iron 26mg	144%
Potassium 1764mg	38%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 48.7%

Protein: 4.0%

Carbs: 47.4%