Nanaimo Bars
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
20 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Additional Time
4 hrs
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Total Time
4 hrs 35 mins
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Servings
16 squares
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Calories
422 kcal
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Course
Dessert, Baked Goods
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Cuisine
American
Nanaimo Bars
Description
These Nanaimo bars start with a dense but tender bottom layer that blends graham cracker crumbs, coconut flakes, chopped walnuts or pecans, cocoa powder, sugar, butter, and an egg, which is baked briefly to hold its shape. The middle layer is a custard-flavored cream made by mixing custard powder dissolved in milk with vanilla, then creamed with butter and powdered sugar until light and smooth. This creamy layer is spread over the cooled base and then refrigerated to chill. The top layer consists of semi-sweet chocolate chips melted with vegetable oil to provide a shiny finish that sets firm on cooling. After the chocolate is spread on top, the bars chill for several hours or overnight, allowing all layers to meld while maintaining distinctive textures: a crunchy, nutty crust, a sweet custard cream, and a sturdy chocolate cap. These bars are best served chilled and cut into small squares, making an indulgent treat for gatherings or dessert trays.
Ingredients
Bottom Layer
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
- 1 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
- ⅔ cup butter melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cocoa powder plus 2 tablespoons, unsweetened
- 1 egg
Middle Layer
- 3 tablespoons custard powder
- 3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup butter unsalted
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Top Layer
- 5 ounces chocolate chips about ¾ cup, semi-sweet
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x9 pan with foil.
Bottom Layer
- In a medium bowl mix all of the ingredients in the bottom layer until well combined. Press into the prepared pan and bake for 11 minutes. Cool completely.
Middle Layer
- Combine custard powder, milk & vanilla. Add butter and mix until combined. Beat in powdered sugar and mix until well combined and fluffy. Spread over the bottom layer and refrigerate.
Top Layer
- Microwave chocolate and oil on 40% power about 45 seconds. Stir and continue to microwave at 15-second increments until smooth & melted. Spread over custard layer and refrigerate for about 5 minutes. Remove from fridge and score lines for cutting.
- Refrigerate 4 hours or overnight and cut into bars.
Notes
- Ensure the bottom layer is fully cooled before spreading the custard middle layer to prevent melting or mixing.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 16squares
Amount Per Serving
Calories 422 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 422 | 21% |
| Carbohydrates | 48g | 16% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 25g | 38% |
| Saturated Fat | 13g | 65% |
| Cholesterol | 54mg | 18% |
| Sodium | 167mg | 7% |
| Potassium | 166mg | 4% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 36g | 72% |
| Vitamin A | 444IU | 9% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 38mg | 4% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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