Nanaimo Bars Recipe 🍫
These Nanaimo bars have three layers but are well worth the effort. My son is famous for making and taking these to work. I’ve heard other names, but everyone knows them as Nanaimo bars here in the Northwest. They are sold on British Columbia Ferries and at coffee stands.
Ingredients:
For the Bottom Layer:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup shredded coconut
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Middle Layer:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder (or vanilla pudding mix)
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
For the Top Layer:
4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Directions:
Prepare the Bottom Layer:
In a medium bowl, mix together the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts if using.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Set aside.
Prepare the Middle Layer:
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter, vanilla custard powder, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth and creamy.
Spread the custard mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust layer. Smooth the surface with a spatula and refrigerate while you prepare the top layer.
Prepare the Top Layer:
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate and butter together, stirring until smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate over the custard layer, spreading evenly to cover the entire surface.
Chill and Set:
Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate layer is set.
Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper, and cut into squares.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 16 squares
Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per square (varies with portion size)
