Dive into the decadent world of Nanaimo Bars, a no-bake Canadian treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. These 8 Nanaimo Bar recipes offer a delightful spin on the classic, from traditional variations to modern twists. Explore the rich flavors and textures of this iconic Canadian dessert and discover your new favorite Nanaimo Bar recipe today! Get ready for a bite of pure Canadian delight.
Indulge in Delicious Nanaimo Bars: A Canadian Treat
This recipe guides you through creating Nanaimo Bars, a beloved no-bake dessert from Canada. With a crumbly base, creamy custard filling, and rich chocolate topping, these bars are a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 1/2 cup (110g) butter
- 1/4 cup (50g) white sugar
- 5 tablespoons (40g) cocoa powder
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1 1/4 cups (100g) graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup shredded coconut
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup (110g) butter
- 2 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons (40g) heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons (20g) custard powder
- About 2 cups (250g) icing sugar
For the Topping:
- 4 oz (115g) milk or semi-sweet chocolate
- 2 tablespoons (30g) butter
Instructions
Making the Base:
- Create a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Melt the butter, sugar, and cocoa powder in the bowl.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the beaten egg until the mixture thickens. Stir in the graham cracker crumbs and coconut.
- Press the mixture firmly into an 8-inch square baking dish.
Making the Filling:
- Cream together the butter, heavy cream, custard powder, and icing sugar until light and fluffy. If your butter is too hard, soften it slightly before creaming.
- Spread the filling evenly over the base layer.
Making the Topping:
- Melt the chocolate and butter together in a double boiler. Stir until smooth.
- Allow the chocolate mixture to cool slightly before spreading it over the filling layer.
Chilling and Serving:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or until firm.
- Cut into squares and serve cold. Nanaimo bars are delicious enjoyed with tea or coffee.
Nanaimo Bar Cupcakes: A Bite-Sized Treat
These Nanaimo Bar Cupcakes capture the essence of the classic Canadian dessert in a convenient, individual serving. With a moist chocolate coconut base, a creamy vanilla custard filling, and a rich chocolate topping, these cupcakes are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
For the Cupcake Base:
- 1 box Chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
- ¾ cup Sweetened shredded coconut (adjust to your liking)
For the Custard Filling:
- ½ cup Butter
- 4 cups Icing sugar
- 6 tbsp Milk
- 4 tbsp Vanilla pudding mix or custard powder
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract (optional)
For the Chocolate Topping:
- ¾ cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tsp Butter
Instructions
Prepare the Cupcake Base:
- Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package directions, incorporating the shredded coconut into the batter.
- Fill cupcake liners in a cupcake pan about two-thirds full with the prepared batter. Bake according to the cake mix package instructions.
- Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack before filling.
Make the Custard Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the butter until light and fluffy.
- Whisk in the custard powder and milk until smooth.
- Gradually add the icing sugar, beating until the filling is smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract, if using.
Fill and Top the Cupcakes:
- Once the cupcakes are completely cool, fill a piping bag fitted with a small round tip with the custard filling.
- Insert the piping tip into the center of each cupcake and squeeze the bag gently while slowly pulling it out. This will create a filled center.
- Cover the filled cupcakes and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to firm up.
- Meanwhile, melt the chocolate chips and butter together in a double boiler or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring until smooth.
- Dip the tops of the cooled, filled cupcakes into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Place the cupcakes back on the wire rack and allow the chocolate topping to set completely. Enjoy!
No-Bake Nanaimo Bars: A Classic Canadian Treat
This recipe guides you through creating delicious, no-bake Nanaimo Bars, a beloved Canadian dessert. With three distinct layers of crumbly base, creamy custard filling, and rich chocolate ganache, these bars are a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Base Layer:
- 100 ml Butter
- 50 ml Sugar
- 3 heaped tablespoons Cocoa powder
- 1 Egg
- 380 ml Graham crackers (crushed)
- 100 ml Walnuts (finely chopped and oven-roasted)
- 100 ml Coconut
Middle Layer:
- 100 ml Butter (softened)
- 2 tbsp + 2 tsp Heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Custard powder
- 400 ml Powdered sugar
Top Layer:
- 100 grams Chocolate
- 2 tbsp Butter
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Base
Create a double boiler (or bain-marie) by placing a heatproof bowl over a simmering pot of water. Combine the butter, sugar, and cocoa powder in the bowl and heat, stirring until melted and smooth. Whisk the egg in a separate bowl and then gradually add it to the chocolate mixture, stirring constantly. Continue heating and stirring patiently over low heat until the mixture thickens. Remove from the heat. Stir in the crushed graham crackers, finely chopped walnuts, and coconut. Mix thoroughly and press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8 inch baking dish.
Step 2: Making the Creamy Filling
Ensure your second portion of butter (100ml) is softened to room temperature. In a bowl, combine the softened butter with the heavy cream, custard powder, and powdered sugar. Beat with an electric mixer or whisk vigorously until light and fluffy. Spread this mixture evenly over the base layer.
Step 3: Creating the Chocolate Ganache
Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a simmering pot of water (double boiler). Once melted, add the final portion of butter (2 tablespoons) and stir until smooth and combined. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly but ensure it remains pourable. Pour the chocolate ganache over the creamy filling, spreading evenly. Refrigerate the Nanaimo bars for at least 2 hours, or until completely chilled and firm, before cutting and serving.
No-Bake Nanaimo Bars: A Classic Canadian Treat
Indulge in the rich, decadent delight of Nanaimo Bars, a no-bake Canadian dessert featuring three distinct layers: a chocolatey, nutty base, a creamy custard filling, and a smooth chocolate ganache topping. This recipe offers a step-by-step guide to creating these irresistible treats.
Ingredients
Bottom Layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 5 tbsp cocoa
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1 1/4 cup Graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1 cup shredded coconut
Middle Layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 2/3 tbsp cream
- 2 tbsp vanilla custard powder
- 2 cups icing sugar
Top Layer:
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
Making the Base:
- Melt the butter, sugar, and cocoa together in a double boiler.
- Once melted, whisk in the beaten egg and stir constantly until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat.
- Stir in the Graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and almonds. Mix well.
- Press the mixture firmly into an ungreased 8×8 inch pan.
Preparing the Custard Filling:
- In a bowl, cream together the butter, cream, custard powder, and icing sugar until light and fluffy.
- Spread the custard filling evenly over the base layer.
- Chill for at least 1 hour, or until the custard is firm.
Creating the Chocolate Ganache:
- Melt the chocolate and butter together over low heat, stirring until smooth.
- Let the ganache cool slightly, but ensure it remains pourable.
- Pour the ganache over the custard layer and spread evenly.
- Chill the entire pan in the refrigerator until the ganache is set.
Final Touches:
- Once firm, cut the Nanaimo Bars into squares.
- Serve and enjoy!
No-Bake Mint Chocolate Nanaimo Bars (Nut & Dye Free Option)
Enjoy these delectable no-bake Mint Chocolate Nanaimo Bars, easily adaptable for those with nut and dye sensitivities. This recipe provides a classic treat with a refreshing mint twist.
Ingredients
Base:
- 1 cup mint chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 1 1/4 cup graham wafer crumbs
- 1 cup flaked coconut
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts (optional, omit for nut allergies)
Filling:
- 2 cups icing sugar
- 1/4 cup softened butter
- 3 tbsp milk
- 2 tbsp custard powder
- 1 tsp mint extract
- Several drops of green food coloring (optional, omit for dye sensitivities)
Glaze:
- 3/4 cup mint chocolate chips
- 2 tsp vegetable oil (canola or olive oil recommended)
Instructions
Base: Melt 1 cup of mint chocolate chips with 1/2 cup of softened butter in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in the graham wafer crumbs and coconut. (Optional: Add finely chopped walnuts if desired). Press the mixture evenly into a 9-inch square pan. Chill for 30 minutes.
Filling: Combine the icing sugar, 1/4 cup of softened butter, milk, custard powder, and mint extract in a bowl and blend until smooth. (Optional: Add a few drops of green food coloring for a more vibrant green hue, if desired). Spread the filling evenly over the chilled base.
Glaze: Melt the remaining 3/4 cup of mint chocolate chips with 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a bowl set over simmering water. Ensure the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Once melted and smooth, spread the glaze evenly over the filling. Chill until completely set.
Makes approximately 20 bars.
No-Bake Nanaimo Bars
These decadent Nanaimo Bars are a classic no-bake dessert featuring a chocolate-graham cracker crust, a creamy vanilla custard filling, and a rich chocolate topping. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a delightful treat perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 oz semi-sweet chocolate
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup flaked coconut
Custard Filling
- 2 tbsp custard powder
- 3 tbsp milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cups icing sugar (powdered sugar)
Chocolate Topping
- 2 tbsp butter
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate
Instructions
Making the Crust
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the 2 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate and 1/2 cup of butter. Stir until smooth.
- Blend in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Stir in the graham cracker crumbs and coconut until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Preparing the Custard Filling
- In a bowl, whisk together the custard powder and milk until smooth.
- Add the 1/4 cup of butter and mix well.
- Gradually beat in the icing sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the custard filling evenly over the cooled crust.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Making the Chocolate Topping
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the 8 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate and 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir until smooth.
- Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the custard layer.
- Refrigerate for several hours, or until the chocolate topping is firm, before cutting and serving.
Easy No-Bake Nanaimo Bars
These no-bake Nanaimo Bars are a classic Canadian treat, featuring a buttery crumb base, a creamy custard filling, and a rich chocolate topping. They are surprisingly simple to make and require no oven time, making them perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Base Layer:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 5 tbsp cocoa powder (or carob powder)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 egg, slightly beaten
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup fine coconut (shredded)
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Middle Layer:
- 2 cups icing sugar (powdered sugar)
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 3 tbsp milk
- 2 tbsp vanilla instant pudding mix
Top Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (or carob chips)
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
Base Layer: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter, cocoa powder, and sugar. Remove from heat and stir in the beaten egg. Add the graham cracker crumbs, coconut, walnuts, and vanilla extract. Mix well. Press this mixture firmly into a buttered 8×8 inch (or 11×7 inch) pan. Refrigerate while you prepare the filling.
Middle Layer: In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and icing sugar. Beat in the milk, vanilla pudding mix, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread this filling evenly over the chilled base layer. Return to the refrigerator to cool.
Top Layer: Melt the chocolate chips and butter together in a double boiler or microwave. Spread the melted chocolate over the cooled filling. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm, before cutting into squares.
Easy No-Bake Nanaimo Bars
These decadent Nanaimo Bars are a no-bake treat with three delicious layers: a chocolatey graham cracker base, a creamy custard buttercream filling, and a rich chocolate ganache topping. This recipe is surprisingly simple to follow and results in a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 Cup Butter
- 1/4 Cup Brown Sugar
- 3 Tablespoons Cocoa
- 1 Egg
- 2 Cups Graham Cracker Crumbs
For the Buttercream Filling:
- 2 Cups Powdered Sugar
- 1/4 Cup Fresh Cream
- 2 Tablespoons Custard Powder
For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:
- 3 Ounces Chocolate Chips
- 2 Tablespoons Butter
Instructions:
Making the Crust:
Begin by creating the base. Melt the butter, brown sugar, and cocoa together. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg. Slowly whisk the beaten egg into the warm chocolate mixture, ensuring the mixture is removed from the heat to prevent the egg from scrambling. Stir in the graham cracker crumbs until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into an 8×8 inch pan lined with parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Making the Buttercream Filling:
While the crust chills, prepare the buttercream filling. Cream together the powdered sugar, butter, and custard powder. Gradually add the cream, beating until light and fluffy (approximately 5 minutes). Spread this buttercream layer evenly over the chilled crust and return it to the refrigerator for another 30 minutes.
Making the Chocolate Ganache Topping:
Finally, make the chocolate ganache topping. Melt the chocolate chips and butter together (either using a double boiler or in the microwave in short bursts). Pour the melted chocolate over the chilled buttercream layer and return the pan to the refrigerator to allow the ganache to set completely.
History of Nanaimo Bars
Nanaimo Bars, a beloved Canadian treat, have a somewhat murky history. While pinpointing the exact origin is tricky, several theories exist. The most popular story places their birth in Nanaimo, British Columbia, sometime in the mid-20th century. Recipes similar to the modern Nanaimo Bar appeared in community cookbooks and local newspapers during this period.
One of the earliest published recipes, called “Chocolate Square,” appeared in the 1952 edition of the Edith Adams Prize Cookbook. Later, in 1953, a recipe named “London Fog Bar” surfaced in the Vancouver Sun. These early versions demonstrate the evolution of the recipe and hint at the collaborative nature of its development.
The name “Nanaimo Bar” didn’t become widely used until the 1960s. As the bars gained popularity across Canada, the name solidifying their association with the city of Nanaimo. While variations exist, the core components – a chocolate crumb base, a custard buttercream filling, and a chocolate ganache topping – remained consistent, establishing the iconic treat we know and love today.
Nutritional Content and Benefits of Nanaimo Bars
While undeniably delicious, Nanaimo bars are generally considered a treat rather than a health food. They are dense and rich, primarily comprised of sugar, butter, and chocolate. A single square can pack a significant caloric punch, typically ranging from 300-500 calories depending on the specific recipe and size.
These delightful squares are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals. However, they do offer small amounts of certain nutrients depending on the ingredients used. For example, the use of dark chocolate in some recipes can contribute a small amount of antioxidants. Similarly, the base layer often contains graham crackers which offer a negligible amount of fiber.
It’s important to enjoy Nanaimo bars in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Their high sugar and fat content means they are best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular snack. Consider savoring a smaller square or sharing a bar with a friend to manage portion size.
Ultimately, Nanaimo bars are about pleasure and enjoyment. They are a beloved Canadian treat perfect for special occasions and celebrations. By being mindful of portion sizes and incorporating them into a balanced diet, you can enjoy the deliciousness of Nanaimo bars guilt-free.
Tips for Choosing Quality Chocolate
Nanaimo bars are all about the chocolate, so choosing the right kind is crucial for that perfect bite. Look for high-quality chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa butter. A higher cocoa butter content generally indicates a smoother, more luxurious melt and a richer flavor.
Check the ingredients list. Ideally, it should be short and sweet, with minimal additives. Cocoa mass, sugar, and cocoa butter are the key components. Avoid chocolates with artificial flavors or hydrogenated oils.
Consider the type of chocolate. Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate works beautifully in Nanaimo bars, offering a balanced sweetness. Experiment with different percentages of cacao to find your preferred level of intensity.
Don’t be afraid to splurge a little. Investing in good chocolate will elevate the flavor of your Nanaimo bars significantly. The difference between a standard baking chocolate and a premium chocolate is noticeable in the final product.