There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a dessert that not only looks indulgent but also comes together with minimal fuss. Enter Nanaimo Bars—a delicious no-bake treat that has been stealing hearts and sweetening gatherings for generations. I first encountered these layered delights at a friend’s potluck, where their rich chocolate top and creamy custard middle drew me in like a moth to a flame.
Now, I whip them up on special occasions or simply when a craving strikes. With graham crackers, shredded coconut, and a hidden layer of custard, these bars offer an explosion of flavors and textures that keep you coming back for more. And the best part? They require no baking, making them the perfect solution for those days when you want to impress without breaking a sweat. Let’s dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe that’ll wow your family and friends—and maybe even bring back some fond memories of your own!
Why Will You Love Nanaimo Bars?
Decadent and delicious, these Nanaimo Bars are a no-bake treat that combines three distinct layers for a delightful dessert experience.
- Easy to make: Only a few simple steps to achieve a stunning result.
- Irresistible textures: The crunchy graham cracker base, creamy custard filling, and rich chocolate topping create a heavenly bite.
- Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
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Customizable: Feel free to switch up the nuts or add flavors that you love.
With their incredible taste and fuss-free preparation, these bars are sure to become a family favorite!
Nanaimo Bar Ingredients
• Creating these scrumptious Nanaimo Bars is a breeze with the right ingredients!
For the Crust
- Graham crackers – Use finely crushed for a sturdy base that holds up well.
- Sweetened shredded coconut – Adds a delightful chewiness and tropical flavor.
- Walnuts – Crunchy and nutty, but feel free to substitute with pecans or almonds.
- Unsalted butter – Melting this helps bind the crust together perfectly.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the base for that extra delicious layer.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – Enhances the chocolatey flavor of the crust.
- Large egg, beaten – Acts as a binder to help the crust hold its shape.
For the Custard Filling
- Unsalted butter – Use softened butter for easy mixing to a smooth consistency.
- Powdered sugar – Ensures a super sweet, creamy custard texture.
- Custard powder – Gives the filling its signature flavor and smoothness.
- Whole milk – Adds just the right amount of creaminess to the filling.
- Vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla deepens the custard’s flavor.
- Diamond Crystal kosher salt – Balances sweetness, enhancing all the ingredients.
For the Chocolate Topping
- Semi-sweet or dark chocolate – Choose your favorite type for a decadent finish.
- Unsalted butter – A touch of butter makes the chocolate glossy and rich.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re all set to make some incredible Nanaimo Bars that’ll leave everyone wanting more!
How to Make Nanaimo Bars
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Prepare the Pan: Grease an 8- by 8-inch baking pan with nonstick baking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of your delicious bars.
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Combine Base Ingredients: In a food processor, pulse together graham crackers, shredded coconut, and walnuts until they’re finely ground. Transfer the mixture to a medium bowl for easy mixing.
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Melt and Mix: Melt 113 g of butter in a medium heatproof bowl over simmering water. Stir in granulated sugar and cocoa powder until fully dissolved, then whisk in the beaten egg until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
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Form the Crust: Pour the butter mixture over the graham cracker crumbs and toss to thoroughly coat. Knead gently until cohesive, then transfer it to your prepared baking pan. Spread the mixture evenly and compress it firmly. Freeze until set, about 10 minutes.
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Make Custard Filling: Beat 84 g of softened butter, powdered sugar, custard powder, milk, vanilla extract, and salt in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes.
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Layer the Filling: Remove the crust from the freezer and spread the custard filling evenly over it. Refrigerate until the filling is set, about 1 hour, then pop it back in the freezer until you’re ready for the chocolate layer.
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Prepare Chocolate Layer: In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and 42 g of butter over barely simmering water. Stir until melted, about 5 minutes, and whisk until completely smooth.
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Top with Chocolate: Retrieve the baking pan from the freezer and pour the silky chocolate mixture over the custard filling, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate until the chocolate is fully set, about 30 minutes.
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Slice and Serve: With a hot knife, slice the bars into squares. If you’re not serving immediately, return the bars to refrigeration to keep them fresh and tasty.
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of additional shredded coconut for an extra touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Nanaimo Bars?
Indulge in a delightful duo that complements the sumptuous texture and flavor of these layered treats.
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries adds a refreshing contrast to the rich bars, enhancing their sweetness.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and smooth, a scoop of vanilla ice cream balances the textures, making each bite heavenly.
- Espresso or Coffee: A strong espresso or freshly brewed coffee provides a robust companion, coaxing out the chocolatey nuances in every bite.
Pair with a rich cup of tea to elevate your dessert experience. The warmth will soothe while the ceremony of tea-drinking enhances the flavors, creating a perfect moment of enjoyment!
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Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A warm drizzle of chocolate enhances the bars’ decadence, providing an extra chocolate fix that chocolate lovers can’t resist.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a delicate touch, making every slice feel indulgent. Serve with a sprinkle of cocoa powder for flair!
With these delightful pairs, your Nanaimo Bars will shine even brighter at your next gathering!
Nanaimo Bars Variations
Feel free to experiment with these delicious twists and substitutions to make Nanaimo Bars your own!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or crushed oats to replace traditional graham crackers for a safe and scrumptious option.
The texture will still be delightful, allowing everyone to indulge without worry. -
Nut-Free: Substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely for a nut-free alternative that everyone can enjoy.
The bars will still have that incredible crunch from the crust! -
Vegan: Swap the butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg in place of the beaten egg to create a plant-based version everyone will adore.
You won’t sacrifice flavor or texture—just pure bliss! -
Mint Chocolate: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the chocolate topping for a refreshing twist that will remind you of creamy mint chocolate bars.
This subtle flavor will elevate your dessert to new heights! -
Fruit Layer: Incorporate a layer of raspberry or strawberry jam between the custard filling and chocolate topping for a fruity burst.
This layered addition not only looks stunning but also adds a delightfully tangy flavor you’ll crave. -
Coffee Infusion: Mix a teaspoon of instant coffee granules into the chocolate layer for a delicious mocha twist that coffee lovers will appreciate.
The chocolate and coffee combo creates a rich, aromatic experience! -
Coconut Boost: Use unsweetened coconut flakes in the crust instead of the shredded version for added texture and an extra coconutty flavor.
This subtle variation gives even more depth to your Nanaimo Bars! -
Chocolate Variants: Experiment with white chocolate or a mix of dark and milk chocolate for the topping to customize the sweetness and flavor profile to your liking.
Each choice brings its own charm to this classic treat!
How to Store and Freeze Nanaimo Bars
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Room Temperature: Store Nanaimo Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, but keep in mind that the chocolate may soften slightly.
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Fridge: To maintain freshness, refrigerate the bars for up to 1 week in an airtight container. This also keeps the chocolate layer firm and delicious.
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Freezer: If you want to save them for later, freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
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Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these bars! Simply remove from the fridge or freezer and enjoy directly for the best taste and texture.
Helpful Tricks for Nanaimo Bars
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Crust Consistency: Ensure the graham cracker mixture is finely ground; a rough mixture can lead to a crumbly base that won’t hold together.
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Cooling Time: Don’t rush the chilling process! Freezing the crust and custard layers helps the bars hold their shape and makes slicing easier.
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Smooth Chocolate: For a glossy finish, stir the chocolate over low heat and avoid overheating. Chocolate that’s too hot can separate and ruin the topping.
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Cutting Technique: Use a hot knife when slicing the bars to avoid a messy cut through the chocolate layer. Wipe the knife between cuts for clean edges.
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Storage Tips: Keep the Nanaimo Bars refrigerated until serving to maintain their freshness—this also helps keep the chocolate topping firm!
With these expert tips, you’ll create stunning Nanaimo Bars that will impress everyone at your next gathering!
Make Ahead Options
These Nanaimo Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the graham cracker crust and custard filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the crust as directed and refrigerate it after compressing it into the pan. For the custard layer, beat together the ingredients, then spread over the chilled crust and refrigerate until set. To maintain their quality, ensure each layer is tightly covered to prevent any drying out or transfer of flavors. When you’re ready to complete your Nanaimo Bars, simply top with the chocolate layer (which can also be made ahead), refrigerate until set, slice, and enjoy the delightful treat without the fuss on serving day!
Nanaimo Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of graham crackers should I use for Nanaimo Bars?
I recommend using plain graham crackers without added flavors or spices. Finely crushed graham crackers create a sturdy base and help maintain the structural integrity of your bars.
How should I store leftover Nanaimo Bars?
For best results, store your Nanaimo Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This helps maintain their freshness and keeps the chocolate layer firm. If you’re looking for a longer-term option, you can freeze them.
Can I freeze Nanaimo Bars, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.
What should I do if the chocolate layer separates when melting?
To avoid separation, make sure to melt the chocolate over low heat, stirring gently until just melted. If you notice it starting to separate, remove it from the heat immediately and stir in a small amount of vegetable oil or refine it with a splash of warm milk for a smoother consistency.
Can I make Nanaimo Bars gluten-free?
Certainly! To make gluten-free Nanaimo Bars, you can substitute graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives available in stores. Also, check the labels on other ingredients, like chocolate and custard powder, to ensure they are gluten-free.
Are there any allergy considerations for Nanaimo Bars?
Yes, Nanaimo Bars contain nuts and eggs, so they may not be suitable for those with nut allergies or egg sensitivities. Consider using nut-free substitutes like sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely. If you need to avoid eggs, a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) can be a suitable replacement in the crust.
Decadent Nanaimo Bars That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- Pulse together graham crackers, shredded coconut, and walnuts in a food processor.
- Melt unsalted butter in a medium heatproof bowl and stir in sugar and cocoa powder until dissolved.
- Mix the butter mixture with the graham cracker mixture and form the crust in the baking pan.
- Beat together the filling ingredients until smooth and creamy, then layer over the crust.
- Chill the custard filling until set, then prepare the chocolate layer by melting chocolate and butter together.
- Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the custard filling and refrigerate until set.
- Slice into squares with a hot knife and serve.