original nanaimo bar recipe

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The Best original nanaimo bar recipe

I’ve been making Nanaimo bars for my family and friends for years, and they’re always a hit. The original recipe hails from the Canadian city of Nanaimo, where it was created in the 1950s. The dish consists of a crumbly base made from graham cracker crumbs, a creamy middle layer of custard-like filling, and a rich chocolate topping.

What I love most about this recipe is the way it combines flavors and textures in a single bar. It’s a perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a sweet fix for the kids after school. My kids love helping me make these bars because they get to be involved in the process of crushing the graham crackers and mixing the filling.

And let’s be honest, who can resist the allure of a rich, velvety chocolate on top? The best part is that this recipe is surprisingly easy to make, even for those who are new to baking. The only thing you need to be mindful of is not overmixing the filling, or it will become too stiff.

But with a little practice, you’ll be whipping up these delicious bars like a pro in no time. My family loves them so much that we’ve even started making them for potlucks and other gatherings. They’re always a crowd-pleaser, and people are always asking me for the recipe.

I’m happy to share it with you today, so you can enjoy these tasty treats with your loved ones too.

4.6 from 1932 votes

Nanaimo bars are a classic Canadian dessert with a wafer and coconut crumb base, layered with a light vanilla or custard flavoured butter icing, topped with melted chocolate. This recipe is a traditional version of the popular treat.

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Prep Time30 mins

Cook Time10 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time40 mins

Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Base

2/3 cup unsalted butter

1/3 cup white sugar

1/3 cup light brown sugar

1/3 cup cocoa powder

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup shredded coconut

1/4 cup icing sugar

For the Filling

1/2 cup unsalted butter

2 tbsp vanilla custard powder

2 tbsp icing sugar

2 tbsp milk

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

2 cups icing sugar

For the Topping

200 g semi sweet chocolate

50 g unsalted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2Line a 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

3In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

4Add white and brown sugar and cocoa powder.

5Stir until sugar is dissolved and mixture is smooth.

6Remove from heat.

7In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, walnuts, and coconut.

8Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.

9Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

10Bake for 10 minutes.

11Remove from oven and let it cool completely.

12To make the filling, in a medium bowl, cream the butter, custard powder, icing sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.

13Gradually add the icing sugar, beating well until smooth and spreadable.

14Spread the filling evenly over the cooled base.

15Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.

16To make the topping, in a double boiler, melt the chocolate and butter together, stirring until smooth.

17Pour the melted chocolate over the chilled filling, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.

18Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until the chocolate is set.

19Cut into squares and serve.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl

Baking sheet

Oven

Double boiler

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 140mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 35g🥩Protein: 3g

📝Notes

Tips: For a healthier option, you can substitute almonds for walnuts. Make sure the base is completely cooled before adding the filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Nanaimo bars are perfect for any occasion whether you’re looking for a quick dessert or want to impress your guests at a dinner party.

They’re also great for family gatherings because everyone can enjoy them regardless of dietary restrictions as long as you use gluten-free graham crackers.

To store them properly place them in an airtight container at room temperature but keep away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Original Nanaimo Bar

Q: What is the origin of Nanaimo bars?

Nanaimo bars originated in the Canadian city of Nanaimo in the 1950s.

Q: What are the ingredients in an original Nanaimo bar recipe?

The ingredients include graham cracker crumbs, custard-like filling made with sugar, eggs, flour, and butter, and a rich chocolate topping.

Q: Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute some ingredients if needed but keep in mind that it may alter the taste and texture.

Q: How do I prevent the filling from becoming too stiff?

You need to be mindful of not overmixing the filling as it will become too stiff.

Q: Can I store these bars at room temperature?

No, it’s best to store them in an airtight container at room temperature but not directly exposed to sunlight or heat sources.

original nanaimo bar recipe

The Best original nanaimo bar recipe