Original Nanaimo Bars Recipe: Classic Canadian Treat
A treasured dessert bar named after the Canadian city of Nanaimo, British Columbia, this layered treat has been beloved since the early 1950s, first published in the Vancouver Sun newspaper. This classic version, inspired by Company’s Coming: 150 Delicious Squares, features a delightful combination of a chocolate-graham crumb crust, a creamy custard middle layer, and a rich chocolate topping. While some modern variations add flavors like mint or peanut butter to the custard layer, this classic vanilla custard version remains a favorite for its nostalgic appeal. Perfect for make-ahead occasions, these bars also store wonderfully in the freezer.
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
| Ingredients | Quantity | Calories | Fat (g) | Saturated Fat (g) | Carbohydrates (g) | Sugar (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Butter | 1/2 cup | 407 | 46.0 | 29.4 | 0.1 | 0 | 0.5 |
| Margarine | 1/4 cup | 255 | 27.0 | 5.5 | 0.1 | 0 | 0.4 |
| Granulated Sugar | 5 tbsp | 204 | 0 | 0 | 52.5 | 52.0 | 0.1 |
| Egg | 1 | 63 | 4.5 | 1.6 | 0.5 | 0.5 | 6.3 |
| Graham Cracker Crumbs | 1 3/4 cups | 490 | 6.5 | 1.0 | 103.5 | 17.6 | 6.4 |
| Walnuts, chopped | 1/2 cup | 327 | 32.8 | 3.1 | 6.8 | 1.1 | 7.6 |
| Coconut, shredded | 1 cup | 283 | 24.4 | 21.1 | 10.1 | 5.0 | 2.7 |
| Vanilla Custard Powder | 2 tbsp | 58 | 0 | 0 | 15.0 | 12.0 | 0 |
| Icing Sugar | 2/3 cup | 374 | 0 | 0 | 94.5 | 92.7 | 0.1 |
| Chocolate | 4 oz (chopped) | 603 | 43.6 | 24.8 | 41.7 | 37.4 | 7.9 |
| Total per Serving (approx) | 151.9 | 10.6 | 6.2 | 14.4 | 11.1 | 1.2 |
Instructions for Making Nanaimo Bars
Bottom Layer
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Melt 1/2 cup butter, 1/4 cup margarine, and 5 tablespoons granulated sugar together in the top of a double boiler. |
| 2 | Add 1 egg to the mixture, stirring well to allow the egg to cook and thicken the mixture without scrambling. |
| 3 | Remove the mixture from heat and add 1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, and 1 cup shredded coconut. Stir until combined. |
| 4 | Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of an ungreased 9×9-inch pan to form a dense base layer. |
Middle Layer
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 5 | In a mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup butter, 2 tablespoons milk, 2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder, and 2/3 cup icing sugar. Beat until light, fluffy, and smooth. |
| 6 | Spread this creamy custard layer evenly over the prepared base layer, ensuring a smooth surface. |
Topping
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 7 | Melt 4 ounces of chocolate and 2 tablespoons of butter together over low heat until smooth and glossy. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, ensuring it remains spreadable. |
| 8 | Pour the melted chocolate over the middle layer, using a spatula to spread it smoothly over the custard layer. |
| 9 | Chill the assembled Nanaimo Bars in the refrigerator until firm, about 1 hour. |
| 10 | Once set, use a very sharp knife to cut the bars into 36 small squares. For the cleanest cuts, wipe the knife between each slice. |
Tips for Serving & Storage
- Storage: These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze in single layers separated by parchment paper.
- Serving Tips: Serve Nanaimo Bars slightly chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer them frozen, they also make an excellent frosty treat for warmer months.
