Kittencal’s Best Nanaimo Bars (No Bake)
Overview
These Nanaimo Bars are a delightful treat that surpasses any store-bought version. They feature a decadent three-layered structure: a chocolatey base, a creamy custard middle, and a luscious chocolate topping. Perfect for dessert enthusiasts, these bars can be customized with different flavors and colors to suit any occasion.
Recipe Information
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 8×8 inch square pan, approximately 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Keywords: < 30 Mins, For Large Groups, No Cook
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Graham cracker crumbs | 1 3/4 cups |
| Coconut | 1/2 cup |
| Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Half-and-half cream | 1 tbsp |
| Vanilla custard powder | 1 tbsp |
| Icing sugar | 8 tbsp |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Chocolate squares | 2 squares |
| Butter | 4 tbsp |
| Whipping cream | 1/2 cup (optional) |
Instructions
-
Bottom Layer:
- In a double boiler or on low heat, melt 1/2 cup butter, sugar, and egg until thickened.
- Stir in graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and chopped nuts.
- Press firmly into an ungreased 8×8-inch square pan.
-
-
Middle Layer:
- Cream together 1/2 cup butter, half-and-half cream, custard powder, and icing sugar until light and creamy.
- Spread evenly over the bottom layer.
- Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes.
-
Top Layer:
- Melt chocolate squares with 4 tbsp butter (and whipping cream if desired) until smooth.
- Pour evenly over the middle layer, smoothing out with a spoon if necessary.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour before cutting into bars.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Custard Powder Substitute: If you don’t have custard powder, you can use instant vanilla pudding powder. Start with 2 tablespoons and adjust according to desired texture.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavored extracts and food coloring for unique variations. For example, use mint extract and green food coloring for a minty twist.
- Storage: These bars freeze very well. Store them in an airtight container in the freezer for longer shelf life.
- Slicing Tip: For easier slicing, chill the bars slightly and then use a sharp knife to cut them into desired sizes before returning them to the fridge to finish chilling.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 365.7
- Total Fat: 27.4g
- Saturated Fat: 16.3g
- Cholesterol: 50.7mg
- Sodium: 195.5mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 31.6g
- Fiber: 3.7g
- Sugar: 21.4g
- Protein: 4.2g
Conclusion
These Nanaimo Bars are not only delicious but also easy to prepare with detailed instructions provided. They are perfect for serving at parties, gatherings, or as a special treat for family and friends. Customize them to your liking and enjoy the creamy, chocolatey goodness of Kittencal’s Best Nanaimo Bars!
