Nanaimo Bars

These classic Nanaimo Bars are a rich, no-bake Canadian dessert featuring three delicious layers: a crunchy chocolate-coconut graham base, a smooth and creamy custard-flavored buttercream center, and a glossy chocolate ganache topping. Sweet, satisfying, and delightfully nostalgic, these bars are perfect for holidays, potlucks, or whenever you're craving a treat that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare.

Whether you grew up with Nanaimo Bars or are trying them for the first time, you’ll love how quickly they come together and how decadent they taste. They require no oven time and can be made in advance, making them a go-to recipe for busy seasons or whenever you want to wow a crowd. Plus, the layers offer plenty of room for customization, so you can make them as classic or creative as you like.

Why You'll Love These Nanaimo Bars

• Three indulgent layers. Each layer brings something special — the crunchy cocoa-graham base, the smooth custard buttercream, and the silky chocolate top come together in perfect harmony. The combination of textures and flavors creates a balanced and rich dessert.
• No baking required. This dessert is entirely no-bake, which means less time in the kitchen and no need to heat up your oven! This is ideal for summer months or busy holiday baking. It’s perfect when you want something impressive without turning on the oven.
• Great make-ahead treat. These bars store well in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for prepping ahead of time for parties, holidays, or gifts. They hold their shape beautifully, making them easy to transport and serve. No stress!
• Rich, nostalgic flavor. A beloved Canadian favorite, Nanaimo Bars deliver deep chocolate flavor, creamy vanilla custard, and a satisfying texture in every bite. They’re both decadent and familiar, often reminding people of special occasions or family traditions.
• Crowd-pleasing dessert. Whether you’re serving kids or adults, everyone loves these sweet, layered bars. They're easy to slice and even easier to enjoy. One batch serves many, making them ideal for gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredient Notes

To make these delicious Nanaimo Bars, you will need the following ingredients (full measurements in recipe card below):

• butter – unsalted butter is required in all 3 layers. It can be substituted with a neutral oil in the chocolate topping though.
• sugar – white sugar is needed in the chocolate-coconut graham base, while confectioners' sugar is needed in the custard layer.
• cocoa powder – for a deep chocolate flavor in the base. You can substitute with Dutch-processed cocoa for a richer color and smoother taste.
• vanilla – enhances the overall flavor in both the base and custard layers.
• egg – helps hold the base together and adds richness. Substitute with flax egg for an egg-free option.
• graham cracker crumbs – forms the crunchy base. Feel free to substitute with digestive biscuits or crushed cookies.
• shredded coconut – unsweetened coconut adds texture and a coconut flavor to the base. If you want to use sweetened coconut instead, make sure to reduce the amount of the sugar in the base as it will be too sweet.
• custard powder – custard powder gives the filling its signature yellow hue and flavor. you can also substitute with instant vanilla pudding mix if needed.
• heavy cream – softens the custard filling to the right texture.
• semi-sweet chocolate – melted for the glossy top layer. You can use other kinds of chocolate such dark or milk chocolate depending on your sweetness preference.

You will also need measuring cups and spoon, 9-inch square baking pan, parchment paper, mixing bowls, electric mixer, spatula, and a microwave or stovetop for melting chocolate.

How to Make the Best Nanaimo Bars

First, make the chocolate-coconut graham base.

1. Prep. Prepare a 9x9-inch square baking pan with cooking spray and 2 sheets of parchment, leaving an overhang on 2 sides for easy removal.
2. Melt butter. In a medium saucepan, add butter and cook over medium-low heat, until melted but not hot.
3. Stir in ingredients. Stir in the sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla, and beaten egg, whisking until smooth. Continue to heat over medium-low heat, while stirring constantly, until the mixture is very warm but not bubbling.

4. Add graham crackers and coconut. Remove the saucepan from the heat, then add in the graham cracker crumbs and shredded coconut. Stir until smooth and fully combined.

5. Shape the base. Transfer into the prepared pan. Use the back of a measuring cup or flat bottomed glass and press down evenly to create a uniformly thick base.

Next, make the custard filling.

1. Whip the filling. In the bowl of a stand mixer (in a large mixing bowl with a hand mixer), add the unsalted butter, custard powder, confectioners' sugar, 1 tablespoon heavy cream and vanilla. Beat with the paddle attachment until combined, then decide if you need more cream. The final texture of the custard filling should be like a thick frosting. If more cream is needed, add 1 teaspoon at a time, until the consistency is achieved.
2. Spread filling. Spread the custard filling evenly over the chocolate base.
3. Chill. Cover lightly and place into the fridge to harden for at least 2 hours.

Lastly, make the chocolate topping and let it set.

1. Melt chocolate. Place the chocolate and butter (or oil) into a microwave safe bowl. Microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.

2. Add layer. Pour the melted chocolate over the hardened custard filling layer. Use a spatula to smooth it out until the layer is fully covered.
3. Chill. Place back into the fridge to harden for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
4. Serve. Once fully hard, slice into 36 squares and serve.

How to Serve

Slice the chilled Nanaimo Bars into small squares or rectangles using a warm knife for clean edges. Serve them slightly chilled or at room temperature for the best texture. They pair perfectly with:

• Coffee or espresso
• Hot tea or chai lattes
• A glass of cold milk
• Fresh berries or a berry compote
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Dessert trays with brownies, lemon bars, or shortbread cookies

Storing and Freezing Instructions

How to Store

Store Nanaimo Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Place parchment between layers if stacking to prevent them from sticking together.

How to Freeze

Freeze Nanaimo Bars once they chilled in the fridge until fully set. Then slice into bars and place in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray to freeze until firm. Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag, placing parchment between layers to prevent sticking. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving

FAQ

More Dessert Bar Recipes

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• Strawberry Crumb Bars
• Oreo Brownies
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