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+ servings
Top-down view of fudgy treats placed on a rustic wooden board
5 from 1 vote

Classic Nanaimo Bars

Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Classic Nanaimo Bars are a no-bake dessert with a layered combination of graham cracker crumb base, custard-flavored filling, and a rich chocolate topping.
16 Servings

Ingredients

Base Layer:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg beaten
  • cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 cup flaked sweetened coconut
  • ½ cup finely chopped almonds optional

Custard Filling Layer:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • 3 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons custard powder
  • 2 cups confectioners' sugar powdered sugar

Chocolate Topping Layer:

  • 4 ounces semisweet baking chocolate
  • 2 teaspoons unsalted butter

Instructions
 

Prepare the Base Layer:

  1. In the top of a double boiler, combine ½ cup softened butter, unsweetened cocoa powder, and granulated sugar. Stir occasionally until the mixture is melted and smooth. Add the beaten egg and continue stirring until the mixture thickens slightly, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the graham cracker crumbs, flaked coconut, and almonds. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of an ungreased 8x8-inch square pan.

Prepare the Custard Filling:

  1. In a separate mixing bowl, beat together the remaining ½ cup softened butter, heavy cream, and custard powder until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Gradually add the confectioners' sugar and continue to beat until smooth and spreadable. Evenly spread this custard filling over the chilled base layer. Refrigerate to set while preparing the chocolate topping.

Prepare the Chocolate Topping:

  1. Melt the semisweet baking chocolate together with 2 teaspoons butter, either using a double boiler or in the microwave at low heat, stirring at regular intervals until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the chilled custard layer and spread evenly with an offset spatula to cover the entire surface.

Chill and Slice:

  1. Allow the assembled bars to chill in the refrigerator until the chocolate topping is fully set. Once firm, cut into small squares using a sharp knife. For clean slices, wipe the knife between cuts.

Notes

To make these Classic Nanaimo Bars gluten-free, replace the graham cracker crumbs with a certified gluten-free graham-style crumb or crushed gluten-free digestive biscuits. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as custard powder and coconut, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
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