Nanaimo Bars with 6 Variations

Indulge in the irresistible decadence of *Nanaimo Bars with 6 Variations*, a no-bake dessert that layers rich chocolate, creamy custard, and a crunchy graham cracker base for a flavor-packed treat. These Canadian classics come to life with just 30 minutes of hands-on prep time and are easily customizable with six mouthwatering variations, from peppermint-infused Mint Nanaimo Bars to nutty Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars, and even gluten-free and vegan options. Perfect for any occasion, these bars combine simple ingredients like cocoa, shredded coconut, and silky custard powder, topped with a glossy chocolate finish. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or get creative with the suggested twists, these bars are guaranteed to impress at your next gathering!

Nutriscore Rating: 42/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:5 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 16

Ingredients

• 0.5 cup Unsalted butter
• 0.25 cup Granulated sugar
• 0.33 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 large Egg
• 1.5 cups Graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup Sweetened shredded coconut
• 0.5 cup Chopped walnuts (optional)
• 0.5 cup Unsalted butter (for filling)
• 2 tablespoons Heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons Vanilla custard powder
• 2 cups Powdered sugar
• 1 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter (for topping)

Directions

Step 1

Step 1: Prepare the base. In a saucepan over low heat, combine 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/3 cup cocoa powder, stirring until smooth.

Step 2

Step 2: Gradually whisk in 1 large egg and cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 3

Step 3: Remove from heat and mix in 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, and 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional).

Step 4

Step 4: Press this mixture firmly into an 8x8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill for 15 minutes.

Step 5

Step 5: Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Beat together 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons heavy cream, 2 tablespoons custard powder, and 2 cups powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.

Step 6

Step 6: Spread the custard mixture evenly over the chilled base. Return the pan to the refrigerator for another 20 minutes.

Step 7

Step 7: Make the chocolate topping. Melt 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a microwave or double boiler, stirring until fully combined.

Step 8

Step 8: Spread the melted chocolate over the custard filling, smoothing it out evenly.

Step 9

Step 9: Allow the bars to set in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing into squares.

Step 10

Variations:

Step 11

Variation 1: Mint Nanaimo Bars - Add 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract to the custard layer and top with crushed candy canes.

Step 12

Variation 2: Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars - Substitute 1/3 cup custard powder with 1/3 cup peanut butter in the filling.

Step 13

Variation 3: Mocha Nanaimo Bars - Mix 2 teaspoons espresso powder into the filling for a coffee twist.

Step 14

Variation 4: Raspberry Nanaimo Bars - Spread a thin layer of raspberry jam over the base before adding the custard layer.

Step 15

Variation 5: Vegan Nanaimo Bars - Replace butter with coconut oil, use vegan graham crackers, and substitute custard powder with cornstarch.

Step 16

Variation 6: Gluten-Free Nanaimo Bars - Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the base.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1166.4 grams (1166.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	5388

Total Fat 323.30g	414%
Saturated Fat 175.50g	878%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.00g
Cholesterol 694mg	231%
Sodium 1435mg	62%
Total Carbohydrate 661.20g	240%
Dietary Fiber 54.10g	193%
Total Sugars 462.30g
Protein 60.10g	120%

Vitamin D 126IU	631%
Calcium 309mg	24%
Iron 27mg	150%
Potassium 1956mg	42%

*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: 50.2%

Protein: 4.1%

Carbs: 45.6%