Best 2 Nanaimo Cookie Bars Recipes

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Indulge in the delectable Nanaimo cookie bars, a Canadian classic that combines three distinct layers of chocolate, custard, and graham cracker in perfect harmony. This beloved treat offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors, from the rich and decadent chocolate ganache to the creamy custard center and the crunchy graham cracker base. With its elegant appearance and irresistible taste, the Nanaimo bar is a showstopper at any gathering and a true delight for chocolate lovers.

In this comprehensive guide, we present a collection of Nanaimo cookie bar recipes that cater to diverse preferences and dietary restrictions. From the traditional recipe that stays true to the original flavors to creative variations that incorporate unique ingredients and flavor combinations, there's a recipe here for every palate.

For those seeking a gluten-free alternative, we have a recipe that uses almond flour and oat flour to create a delicious and crumbly graham cracker crust. For those with a vegan lifestyle, we offer a recipe that uses plant-based ingredients to replicate the classic Nanaimo bar experience without compromising on taste.

Whether you prefer a classic Nanaimo bar, a gluten-free version, or a vegan interpretation, this article has you covered. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey and discover the perfect Nanaimo cookie bar recipe that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

CHOCOLATE COOKIE NANAIMO BARS



Chocolate Cookie Nanaimo Bars image

No-bake, with three layers of yumminess: a somewhat chewy cookie bottom, vanilla frosting middle, and chocolate top layer. Everyone loves these.

Provided by KEDY

Categories     Desserts     Cookies     International Cookie Recipes     Canadian Cookie Recipes

Time 1h45m

Yield 16

Number Of Ingredients 11

½ cup butter
¼ cup white sugar
¼ cup cocoa powder
1 egg, beaten
1 ¼ cups crushed chocolate cream-filled sandwich cookies (such as OREO® Cookies)
½ cup butter
2 tablespoons instant vanilla pudding mix
3 tablespoons heavy cream
2 cups confectioners' sugar
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Steps:

  • Line a 9x9-inch square pan with parchment paper. Place 1/2 cup of butter into the top half of a double boiler, and melt over simmering water. Stir in the sugar and cocoa powder until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved. Whisk in the beaten egg and gently cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens up, about 1 minute. Remove the double boiler top from the heat, and stir in the cookie crumbs until very well mixed. Press the crust into the prepared dish, and refrigerate until chilled, at least 30 minutes.
  • In a mixing bowl, beat together 1/2 cup of butter with the vanilla pudding powder and cream with an electric mixer until the mixture is fluffy. Slowly beat in the confectioners' sugar, and continue beating until the mixture is very creamy and pale yellow, about 2 minutes. Spread the filling over the crust, and return to the refrigerator for at least 30 more minutes.
  • Melt semisweet chocolate chips with vegetable oil in the top of a double boiler over hot water, and stir until the mixture is very smooth. Remove the chocolate mixture from the heat, allow to cool slightly, and pour over the vanilla layer. Use a spatula to spread the chocolate completely over the vanilla layer. Place the dish in the refrigerator to cool until the chocolate loses its gloss but is not completely hard, about 30 minutes.
  • With a sharp knife, cut into 5 rows by 5 rows (25 squares), return to refrigerator, and chill at least 15 minutes to overnight. Serve cold.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 285.4 calories, Carbohydrate 32.3 g, Cholesterol 45.9 mg, Fat 18.3 g, Fiber 1.2 g, Protein 1.6 g, SaturatedFat 10.4 g, Sodium 144.3 mg, Sugar 28.1 g

NANAIMO COOKIE BARS



Nanaimo Cookie Bars image

Prize-Winning Recipe 2009! Try this easier cookie-mix take on a classic layered chocolate and vanilla bar.

Provided by Betty Crocker Kitchens

Categories     Dessert

Time 1h45m

Yield 36

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 pouch (1 lb 1.5 oz) Betty Crocker™ double chocolate chunk cookie mix
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup chopped nut topping or chopped walnuts
1/2 cup coconut
1 cup butter or margarine, melted
1 egg
4 cups powdered sugar
4 tablespoons vanilla instant pudding and pie filling mix
1/3 cup butter or margarine, softened
1/4 cup milk
1 bag (12 oz) semisweet chocolate chips (2 cups)
1/4 cup butter or margarine

Steps:

  • Heat oven to 350°F. Line bottom and sides of 13x9-inch pan with foil, leaving foil overhanging at 2 opposite sides of pan. In large bowl, stir cookie base ingredients until well mixed. Spread into pan; press lightly. Bake 16 to 18 minutes or until set. Cool completely, about 30 minutes.
  • In another large bowl, stir together powdered sugar and pudding mix. Add 1/3 cup butter and the milk; beat with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth (filling will be very thick). Spoon over cookie base; press evenly to cover. Refrigerate while making topping.
  • In small microwaveable bowl, microwave topping ingredients uncovered on High 1 minute to 1 minute 30 seconds, stirring every 30 seconds until melted and smooth. Spread over filling. Refrigerate uncovered until set, about 30 minutes.
  • Use foil to lift bars from pan; pull foil from sides of bars. Cut into 9 rows by 4 rows. Store covered in refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 270, Carbohydrate 34 g, Cholesterol 25 mg, Fat 3, Fiber 0 g, Protein 1 g, SaturatedFat 8 g, ServingSize 1 Bar, Sodium 150 mg, Sugar 26 g, TransFat 0 g

Tips:

  • Properly measuring ingredients is essential to guarantee the texture and flavor of the Nanaimo cookie bars. It's suggested to use a kitchen scale to achieve accurate measurements.
  • To achieve smooth melted chocolate, use the double boiler method. Place a heatproof bowl over simmering water, ensuring the water does not touch the bottom of the bowl. Stir continuously until the chocolate is melted.
  • Chilling the cookie bars beforehand allows them to set properly and maintain their shape when sliced. If you're short on time, place the cookie bars in the freezer for at least 30 minutes before cutting.
  • Trimming the edges of the cookie bars before coating them with chocolate creates a clean and professional look. Use a sharp knife and trim any uneven edges.
  • Adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the melted chocolate adds a touch of salty sweetness and enhances the flavors of the cookie bars.

Conclusion:

Nanaimo cookie bars are a beloved Canadian treat that combines three distinct layers of flavors and textures. With a chocolate graham cracker crust, a sweet custard filling, and a rich chocolate ganache topping, these cookie bars are a delightful indulgence perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, following the detailed recipe and incorporating the provided tips will guide you in creating these classic Nanaimo cookie bars that are sure to impress.

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