Nanaimo Bar Cookies

Indulge in the rich, no-fuss decadence of Nanaimo Bar Cookies, a Canadian classic reimagined into cookie form! These triple-layer treats start with a baked graham cracker crust infused with cocoa, shredded coconut, and optional crunchy nuts for a satisfying base. The velvety middle layer is a creamy custard filling, whipped to perfection with powdered sugar and custard powder for an authentic touch. Topped with a glossy layer of semi-sweet chocolate, these bars deliver the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. With just 30 minutes of prep and no fancy equipment required, this recipe is ideal for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simply treating yourself to a homemade dessert that feels gourmet. Serve these chilled for the ultimate bite of indulgence!

Nutriscore Rating: 38/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 16

Ingredients

• 0.5 cups Unsalted butter
• 0.25 cups Granulated sugar
• 0.25 cups Cocoa powder
• 1 item Large egg
• 1.75 cups Graham cracker crumbs
• 0.75 cups Shredded sweetened coconut
• 0.5 cups Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 0.5 cups Unsalted butter (for filling)
• 2 tablespoons Custard powder
• 2 cups Powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons Heavy cream
• 1 cups Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter (for topping)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a square 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup cocoa powder until smooth.

Step 3

Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly whisk in the beaten egg. The mixture should thicken slightly.

Step 4

Stir in graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts (if using). Mix until evenly combined and press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form the base layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool completely.

Step 5

To make the filling, beat together 1/2 cup unsalted butter, custard powder, powdered sugar, and heavy cream in a medium bowl until light and fluffy. Spread this custard layer evenly over the cooled base layer. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 6

For the chocolate topping, melt the chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons butter together in a microwave-safe dish in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly to avoid melting the filling.

Step 7

Pour the chocolate mixture over the custard layer, spreading it evenly with an offset spatula. Refrigerate again for at least 30 minutes, or until set.

Step 8

Using the parchment overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and place them on a cutting board. Cut into 16 squares using a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.

Step 9

Serve chilled and enjoy your decadent Nanaimo Bar Cookies!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1251.5 grams (1251.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	5885

Total Fat 334.80g	429%
Saturated Fat 187.60g	938%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.10g
Cholesterol 660mg	220%
Sodium 1444mg	63%
Total Carbohydrate 738.60g	269%
Dietary Fiber 40.50g	145%
Total Sugars 517.20g
Protein 53.10g	106%

Vitamin D 113IU	567%
Calcium 275mg	21%
Iron 19mg	103%
Potassium 1364mg	29%

*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: 48.8%

Protein: 3.4%

Carbs: 47.8%