Nanaimo Bars
Ingredients:
For the Base:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
5 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 large egg, beaten
1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Custard Layer:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder (or vanilla pudding mix)
2 tablespoons milk
For the Chocolate Topping:
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Directions:
Prepare the Base:
In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder. Stir in the beaten egg until smooth.
Add the graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and walnuts (if using), and mix until well combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an ungreased 8×8-inch baking pan. Refrigerate while preparing the custard layer.
Make the Custard Layer:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla custard powder, and milk until smooth and creamy.
Spread the custard mixture evenly over the chilled base. Refrigerate again while preparing the chocolate topping.
Prepare the Chocolate Topping:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate over the custard layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate topping is set.
Serve:
Once set, cut the bars into squares using a sharp knife. To avoid cracking the chocolate, let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Chilling Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Kcal: 300 kcal per bar | Servings: 16 bars
