Classic Nanaimo Bars

Classic Nanaimo Bars

These rich and decadent no-bake chocolate custard bars originated in British Columbia, Canada in the 1930s. This is my version of the traditional recipe.


Nanaimo BarsClassic Nanaimo Bars
Recipe by
Cuisine: Canadian
Published on April 9, 2007

Classic Nanaimo bars — a rich and decadent no-bake chocolate custard bar recipe

Preparation: 25 minutes

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Bottom layer:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup white sugar
  • 5 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 3/4 cups fine shredded unsweetened dried coconut
Middle layer:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons milk or plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder
  • 2 cups icing sugar
Top layer:
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate
  • 1/2 cup milk chocolate
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
  • To make the bottom layer, melt the butter, sugar and cocoa in a heavy saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the beaten egg and stir to cook and thicken. Remove from heat and stir in the graham cracker crumbs and coconut. Press firmly into an ungreased 9 × 9 inch baking pan.

  • Nanaimo bars bottom layer
  • To make the middle layer, cream the butter, milk or yogurt, custard powder and icing sugar together in a mixing bowl. Beat until light. Spread over the bottom layer.

  • Nanaimo bars middle layer
  • Chill in the refrigerator while you make the third layer.

  • Melt the chocolate and butter over low heat. Remove from heat and let stand to cool. When cool but still runny, spread over the middle layer. Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes.

  • Nanaimo bars top layer
  • Use a sharp knife to cut into squares. Store in the refrigerator covered in foil or plastic wrap.

Makes 9 three-inch squares

Nanaimo Bars

2 comments:

basil said...

There are no words to adequately describe these. I can only count my fortunate that as I type this the flavours still linger in my mouth.
They are the most decadent bars I have ever eaten.

Linds said...

I think I just came a little. These things are so good. Mmmmm. Nanaimo bars.