Description
Nanaimo bars showcase Canadian culinary magic with three irresistible layers of sweet, creamy indulgence. Chocolate, custard, and crumbly base combine in this iconic dessert that will transport you straight to British Columbia’s delightful kitchen traditions.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
Base Layer:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup almonds, finely chopped
Binders and Fats:
- 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter
- 1 egg, beaten
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons cocoa powder
Filling Layer:
- 2 cups (240 grams) powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
Chocolate Topping Layer:
- 4 ounces (113 grams) semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons (28 grams) unsalted butter
Instructions
- Craft the foundational layer by melting butter, sugar, and cocoa powder in a double boiler until silky and uniform. Carefully incorporate the beaten egg, whisking continuously to prevent lumping.
- Remove from heat and fold in graham cracker crumbs, almonds, and shredded coconut until thoroughly integrated. Compress the mixture firmly into an 8×8-inch pan, creating a compact base.
- For the creamy middle tier, whip softened butter, custard powder, and heavy cream until achieving a luxurious, aerated texture. Gradually introduce powdered sugar, blending until completely smooth.
- Distribute the creamy mixture uniformly across the initial layer, ensuring complete coverage. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow proper solidification.
- Prepare the final chocolate stratum by gently melting chocolate and butter together, stirring until achieving a glossy, seamless consistency.
- Pour the molten chocolate over the chilled middle layer, using a spatula to create an even, glistening surface. Return to refrigerator for 15-20 minutes until chocolate sets completely.
- Once fully hardened, slice into precise, delectable squares for serving.
Notes
- Ensure chocolate melts slowly to prevent seizing by using low, gentle heat and stirring consistently during double boiler process.
- Chill each layer thoroughly before adding the next to maintain distinct texture and prevent layers from blending together.
- Customize the bottom layer by substituting almonds with different nuts like pecans or walnuts for varied crunch and flavor profile.
- Use high-quality chocolate and pure vanilla extract to elevate the overall taste and richness of the Nanaimo bars.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: None
- Cuisine: Canadian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 55 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 36 mg