Cherry Almond Nanaimo Bars Recipe

Delight your taste buds with these irresistible Cherry Almond Nanaimo Bars! A festive and delicious twist on a classic, these bars boast a rich chocolate base, a vibrant cherry-almond filling, and a decadent chocolate topping. Perfect for Valentine's Day (their pink hue is stunning!), Christmas gatherings (pair them with our Mint Nanaimo Bars for a festive green and red combo!), or any occasion that calls for a show-stopping dessert. Don't be intimidated by the ingredient list – these bars are surprisingly easy to make! Get ready to experience a symphony of textures and flavors in every bite.

Prep Time 145 mins
Cook Time 145 mins
Calories 143.2 kcal
Protein 3g
Rating 4.5 (2 Reviews)
Cherry Almond Nanaimo Bars 21

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Cherry Almond Nanaimo Bars

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How to Make Cherry Almond Nanaimo Bars

  1. **Base:**
  2. In a saucepan over low heat, melt 1/2 cup (113g) margarine, 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar, 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 large egg. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup (140g) shredded coconut, 1 1/2 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs, and 1/2 cup (60g) chopped almonds.
  4. Press the mixture firmly into a greased 9x9-inch baking pan.
  5. Refrigerate for 1 hour.
  6. **Filling:**
  7. In a mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, 1/4 cup (60ml) cherry juice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
  8. Gradually beat in 2 cups (240g) icing sugar until smooth and creamy.
  9. Stir in 1 cup (140g) chopped cherries.
  10. Spread the filling evenly over the chilled base.
  11. Refrigerate until firm (at least 30 minutes).
  12. **Topping:**
  13. Melt 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons (30g) butter in a double boiler or microwave until smooth.
  14. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the filling.
  15. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
  16. Cut into 30 bars using a sharp knife. Gently press down on the chocolate topping before slicing to prevent cracking.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

4 g

Sugar

49g

Fat

11g

Carbs

5g