Learn how to make these irresistible nanaimo bars from scratch with this easy recipe. These classic Canadian dessert bars feature a buttery chocolate crumb base, a creamy custard filling, and a rich chocolate ganache topping. Perfect for any occasion, these homemade nanaimo bars are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder
- 2 cups confectioners' sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 4 ounces semisweet chocolate
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Directions
- In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Add the graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts to the bowl. Stir until fully combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking dish. Use the back of a spoon to smooth and flatten the surface.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and vanilla custard powder until well mixed.
- Gradually add the confectioners' sugar to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the custard filling evenly over the chocolate crumb base in the baking dish.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate and 2 tablespoons of butter in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the custard filling, spreading it with a spatula to create an even layer.
- Refrigerate the nanaimo bars for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Once chilled, remove from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting into squares.
- Serve and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Nanaimo bars are named after the city of Nanaimo in British Columbia, Canada.
These bars originated in the 1950s and have become a classic Canadian treat.
The three layers of nanaimo bars symbolize the different resources found in British Columbia: the chocolate represents the mining industry, the custard represents the agriculture, and the coconut represents the forestry.