Nut-Free Nanaimo Bar

Indulge in the decadence of a classic Canadian dessert with a twist—these Nut-Free Nanaimo Bars are the perfect treat for those with nut allergies or anyone looking for a rich, layered delight. Featuring a chewy graham cracker and coconut base, a luscious vanilla custard middle, and a glossy chocolate topping, this no-bake recipe is as easy as it is irresistible. Each bite delivers a harmonious combination of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey textures, all achieved without the use of nuts. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or an everyday sweet craving, these bars are simple to prepare and require minimal cooking time, making them an ideal dessert for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Serve chilled for the ultimate crowd-pleasing treat!

Nutriscore Rating: 38/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:5 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 16

Ingredients

• 3 cups unsalted butter
• 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 units large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 2 tablespoons instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 4 tablespoons heavy cream
• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter for topping

Directions

Step 1

Prepare an 8x8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.

Step 2

In a medium-sized saucepan over low heat, melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter with 6 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 6 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder.

Step 3

Once melted and combined, remove from heat and quickly whisk in 2 large beaten eggs to thicken the mixture. Stir constantly to prevent the eggs from cooking.

Step 4

Add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 2.5 cups of graham cracker crumbs, and 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut into the mixture. Stir until the ingredients are well combined.

Step 5

Press this mixture firmly into the base of the prepared pan, creating an even layer, and refrigerate while preparing the middle layer.

Step 6

For the custard layer, in a mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons of instant vanilla pudding mix, and 2 cups of powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 7

Add 4 tablespoons of heavy cream to the butter mixture and continue beating until it becomes smooth and fluffy.

Step 8

Spread this custard mixture evenly over the chilled base layer and refrigerate again until well set.

Step 9

For the top chocolate layer, melt 8 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate chips with 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over a double boiler or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently until smooth.

Step 10

Once melted, pour the chocolate over the set custard layer and carefully spread it out into an even layer.

Step 11

Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until the top layer is firm.

Step 12

Once fully set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into 16 squares. Serve chilled.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1533.5 grams (1533.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	7316

Total Fat 483.20g	619%
Saturated Fat 281.70g	1409%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 1302mg	434%
Sodium 2390mg	104%
Total Carbohydrate 780.10g	284%
Dietary Fiber 40.30g	144%
Total Sugars 545.60g
Protein 59.50g	119%

Vitamin D 119IU	593%
Calcium 345mg	27%
Iron 24mg	133%
Potassium 1308mg	28%

*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: 56.4%

Protein: 3.1%

Carbs: 40.5%