Best 2 Decadent Nanaimo Bars Recipes

Indulge in the delectable Nanaimo bars, a Canadian classic that marries chocolate, custard, and coconut in a symphony of flavors. These no-bake treats are a staple in dessert tables, adored for their rich, decadent taste and elegant appearance. This article presents three variations of Nanaimo bars, each with its unique twist while staying true to the iconic flavor profile. The classic Nanaimo bar features a chocolate graham cracker crust, a creamy custard filling, and a rich chocolate ganache topping, making it a timeless favorite. For a delightful twist, the peanut butter Nanaimo bar introduces a layer of peanut butter filling, adding a nutty richness that complements the chocolate perfectly. And for those who love a touch of tang, the lemon Nanaimo bar incorporates a zesty lemon curd filling, creating a refreshing and citrusy variation. Whichever flavor you choose, these Nanaimo bars are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

NANAIMO BARS I

Nanaimo Bars I image

These are a totally sinful concoction containing more calories than one would care to count. A decadent dessert! Will satisfy any sweet tooth!

Provided by Shealeen

Categories Desserts Cookies No-Bake Cookie Recipes

Yield 12

Number Of Ingredients 14

Ingredients

½ cup butter
¼ cup white sugar
5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup shredded coconut
½ cup chopped walnuts
¼ cup butter
2 cups confectioners' sugar
2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder
3 tablespoons milk
4 (1 ounce) squares semisweet chocolate, chopped
1 tablespoon butter

Steps:

Mix 1/2 cup butter or margarine, white sugar, cocoa, egg and vanilla in a heavy sauce pan or double boiler. Stir over low heat until mixture is of custard like consistency.
Combine graham crackers, coconut and walnuts and add to the melted mixture. Mix well and pack into buttered 9 inch square cake pan.
Cream 1/4 cup butter, confectioners' sugar, vanilla custard powder and milk. Beat until creamy and spread over melted base.
Refrigerate till hardened.
Melt semi-sweet chocolate with 1 tablespoon butter and drizzle over custard icing. Refrigerate. When totally hard cut into square bars.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 389.2 calories, Carbohydrate 46.8 g, Cholesterol 48.9 mg, Fat 22.6 g, Fiber 2.7 g, Protein 3.8 g, SaturatedFat 12.1 g, Sodium 199 mg, Sugar 35.5 g

NANAIMO BARS III

Nanaimo Bars III image

Because it's three layers, this sounds hard but it's worth it. My son is famous for making and taking these in to work. I've heard other names but here in the Northwest everyone knows them as Nanaimo bars. They are sold on British Columbia Ferries and at coffee stands. If you can't find custard powder, I've used instant pudding mix with good results.

Provided by MARTHA J PAUL

Categories Desserts Cookies No-Bake Cookie Recipes

Time 30m

Yield 16

Number Of Ingredients 13

Ingredients

½ cup butter, softened
¼ cup white sugar
5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 egg, beaten
1 ¾ cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup flaked coconut
½ cup finely chopped almonds
½ cup butter, softened
3 tablespoons heavy cream
2 tablespoons custard powder
2 cups confectioners' sugar
4 (1 ounce) squares semisweet baking chocolate
2 teaspoons butter

Steps:

In the top of a double boiler, combine 1/2 cup butter, white sugar and cocoa powder. Stir occasionally until melted and smooth. Beat in the egg, stirring until thick, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in the graham cracker crumbs, coconut and almonds (if you like). Press into the bottom of an ungreased 8x8 inch pan.
For the middle layer, cream together 1/2 cup butter, heavy cream and custard powder until light and fluffy. Mix in the confectioners' sugar until smooth. Spread over the bottom layer in the pan. Chill to set.
While the second layer is chilling, melt the semisweet chocolate and 2 teaspoons butter together in the microwave or over low heat. Spread over the chilled bars. Let the chocolate set before cutting into squares.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 310.5 calories, Carbohydrate 34.1 g, Cholesterol 47.3 mg, Fat 19.6 g, Fiber 2.1 g, Protein 2.8 g, SaturatedFat 11.2 g, Sodium 160.1 mg, Sugar 26.1 g

Tips:

Use unsalted butter to avoid making the bars too salty.
Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This will help to create a smooth and creamy filling.
Use a high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor.
Do not over-mix the batter. Over-mixing can make the bars tough.
Chill the bars for at least 2 hours before serving. This will help them to set properly.
Store the bars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Conclusion:

Nanaimo bars are a delicious and decadent dessert that is perfect for any occasion. They are easy to make and can be customized to your own taste. With a few simple tips, you can create the perfect Nanaimo bars that will be enjoyed by everyone.