If you’re looking for a rich and indulgent treat, look no further than Nanaimo bars. This classic no-bake Canadian dessert features three luscious layers: a chocolate coconut base, a creamy custard filling, and a smooth chocolate topping. Whether for a family gathering, holiday celebration, or simply a special weekend treat, these bars are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Base Layer:
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 ¾ cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
½ cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
For the Custard Filling:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder (such as Bird’s Custard Powder)
3 tablespoons milk
For the Chocolate Topping:
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Directions:
Prepare the Base Layer:
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the granulated sugar and cocoa powder until the mixture is smooth.
Gradually whisk in the beaten egg and vanilla extract, cooking for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Remove from heat and stir in the graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts (if using).
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 8×8-inch baking pan. Place in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the custard layer.
Make the Custard Filling:
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla custard powder, and milk until smooth and creamy.
Spread the custard filling evenly over the chilled base layer.
Return to the refrigerator to set for about 20 minutes.
Make the Chocolate Topping:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter together in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate over the custard layer and spread evenly.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour before slicing. Once fully set, cut into squares and serve.
Serving Tips:
Slice with Care: Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares or rectangles for a clean finish. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts to prevent sticking.
Chill Before Serving: For the best texture, serve the bars chilled. This enhances the layers’ firmness and makes them easier to cut and serve.
Pairing Suggestions: Nanaimo bars can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a cup of coffee or tea. The rich flavors complement each other beautifully.
Garnish Ideas: Consider garnishing each bar with a sprinkle of toasted coconut, crushed nuts, or a drizzle of chocolate for an extra touch.
Storage Tips:
Refrigerate: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their texture and flavor for longer.
Layering: If stacking bars in a container, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing: Nanaimo bars can be frozen for extended storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen Nanaimo bars, transfer them to the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight to thaw. Avoid thawing at room temperature to maintain their texture.
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FAQs:
Can I make Nanaimo bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make Nanaimo bars gluten-free by substituting regular graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies. Ensure that any other ingredients you use are also certified gluten-free.
Can I substitute the custard powder in the filling?
If you don’t have vanilla custard powder, you can substitute it with an equal amount of instant vanilla pudding mix. While it will alter the flavor slightly, it will still provide a creamy texture.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the Nanaimo bars?
To reduce the sweetness, you can decrease the amount of powdered sugar in the custard filling. Alternatively, you could use dark chocolate for the topping, which tends to be less sweet than milk chocolate.
Can I add different flavors or toppings to my Nanaimo bars?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding flavors such as almond extract or coconut extract to the custard filling. You can also customize the toppings by using white chocolate, caramel drizzle, or even a layer of crushed cookies for added texture.
Conclusion:
Nanaimo bars are a delightful no-bake dessert that will impress your family and friends. With their unique combination of flavors and textures, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and whip up a batch of these delicious Canadian treats today!
📖 Recipe:
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Nanaimo Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful layers of classic Nanaimo Bars—a beloved Canadian no-bake dessert! With a chocolate coconut base, a creamy custard filling, and a smooth chocolate topping, these rich and decadent bars are perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and utterly irresistible, Nanaimo Bars are sure to become a favorite treat for family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Base Layer:
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar
5 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ¾ cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
½ cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
For the Custard Filling:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder (such as Bird’s Custard Powder)
3 tablespoons milk
For the Chocolate Topping:
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Base Layer: Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in the sugar and cocoa powder until smooth. Gradually whisk in the beaten egg and vanilla, cooking for about 2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and mix in graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and nuts (if using). Press the mixture into a greased 8×8-inch pan and refrigerate.
- Make the Custard Filling: In a bowl, beat softened butter, powdered sugar, custard powder, and milk until smooth. Spread evenly over the chilled base layer and return to the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
- Make the Chocolate Topping: Melt the chocolate chips and butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Pour over the custard layer and spread evenly.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing into squares and serving.
Notes
Ensure each layer is properly chilled before adding the next for clean layers.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Canadian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16 squares
- Calories: 360 kcal per serving
Keywords: Nanaimo Bars, no-bake dessert, Canadian dessert, chocolate bars, custard bars, sweet treats, easy dessert recipe, homemade Nanaimo Bars
