Nanaimo Bars Recipe

Indulge in the rich, decadent delight of classic Nanaimo Bars! This no-bake recipe features a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy custard middle layer, and a luscious chocolate ganache topping. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, these bars are perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time 20 mins

Cook Time 15 mins

Calories 424.7 kcal

Protein 7g

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Recipe Author

The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Nanaimo Bars

1 cup 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
1/2 cup White Granulated Sugar
1/4 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
1 Egg
1 cup Graham Cracker Crumbs
1/2 cup Ground Blanched Almonds
1/2 cup Flaked Coconut
2 tablespoons Heavy Cream
2 teaspoons Vanilla Custard Powder
2 cups Icing Sugar (Confectioners' Sugar)
4 ounces Semi-Sweet Chocolate Baking Squares

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How to Make Nanaimo Bars

**Bottom Layer:** In a double boiler or heat-safe bowl set over simmering water, melt together 1/2 cup (113g) butter, 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1/2 cup (70g) granulated sugar until smooth and combined.
Whisk in 1 large egg until well incorporated and the mixture thickens slightly.
Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups (190g) graham cracker crumbs and 1/4 cup (30g) chopped nuts (optional).
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an ungreased 8x8 inch baking pan.
**Middle Layer:** In a separate bowl, beat together 1/2 cup (113g) softened butter, 1/2 cup (120ml) whipping cream, 1/4 cup (30g) custard powder, and 2 cups (240g) icing sugar until light and fluffy.
Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the graham cracker base.
**Top Layer:** In a small saucepan over low heat, melt 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/4 cup (57g) butter, stirring frequently until smooth.
Remove from heat and let the chocolate mixture cool slightly until it's still liquid but not hot.
Pour the melted chocolate over the custard layer and spread evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is set.
Cut into bars and serve. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

3 g

Sugar

134g

Fat

82g

Carbs

14g

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

15 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Cuisine Preparation Occasion North American Pies And Tarts Desserts Canadian Chocolate Stove Top Dietary Comfort Food Taste Mood Equipment Number Of Servings

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Nanaimo Bars?

Nanaimo Bars takes about 35 minutes from start to finish — roughly 20 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Nanaimo Bars?

Nanaimo Bars has approximately 424.7 calories per serving, with about 7 g protein, 14 g carbohydrates and 43 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Nanaimo Bars?

The key ingredients for Nanaimo Bars are Unsalted Butter, White Sugar, Cocoa, Egg, Graham Cracker Crumbs, Almonds. See the full list with measurements above.