Classic Nanaimo Bars

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There’s something timeless about the creamy, chocolatey layers of Classic Nanaimo Bars. Named after the Canadian city of Nanaimo, this no-bake dessert bar has become a beloved treat across North America, especially in homes that appreciate rich, indulgent sweets without turning on the oven. It boasts a crumbly chocolate-coconut base, a smooth custard-flavored buttercream center, and a glossy layer of chocolate ganache on top.

Whether you’re preparing them for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or just a treat-yourself moment on a cozy night in, Nanaimo Bars are simple to make but deliver a luscious reward. They’re easy to slice, store, and savor—making them an ideal dessert to keep in your fridge for whenever a sweet craving strikes.

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What Makes a Perfect Nanaimo Bar?

The perfect Nanaimo Bar is all about texture and balance. The bottom layer should be chewy and rich with cocoa and coconut. The middle layer must be soft, velvety, and slightly sweet with a classic custard flavor. And the top? A thin but snappy chocolate layer that cracks just right when you bite into it. Choosing quality ingredients for each layer ensures your bars are next-level.

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Ingredients for the Classic Nanaimo Bars

Unsalted Butter – Used in all three layers, butter creates the smooth, rich base and creamy custard filling.

Granulated Sugar – Adds structure and sweetness, particularly in the base layer.

Cocoa Powder – Delivers the rich, chocolatey taste to the base.

Egg – Helps bind the base together as it gently cooks into a thick mixture.

Graham Cracker Crumbs – Offers a classic crunch to the base layer.

Sweetened Shredded Coconut – Adds chewiness and tropical flair to the bottom layer.

Chopped Walnuts (optional) – Brings texture and a nutty contrast to the sweet base.

Custard Powder (or instant vanilla pudding mix) – The key to the yellow middle layer’s signature flavor.

Powdered Sugar – Provides the creamy, sweet structure for the middle layer.

Semisweet Chocolate – Forms a rich, slightly bitter top layer to balance the sweetness below.

Heavy Cream – Smooths and softens the chocolate topping so it cuts neatly.

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How To Make the Classic Nanaimo Bars

Step 1: Make the Chocolate-Coconut Base

In a saucepan, melt butter, then stir in sugar and cocoa powder. Add a beaten egg and cook until thickened. Remove from heat, then mix in graham crumbs, coconut, and walnuts. Press this mixture evenly into a parchment-lined 8×8 pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard Filling

Beat together softened butter, custard powder, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Spread the filling evenly over the cooled base using an offset spatula.

Step 3: Create the Chocolate Topping

Melt semisweet chocolate with heavy cream until smooth. Let cool slightly, then pour over the custard layer. Tilt the pan gently to spread evenly. Chill the pan until the chocolate sets.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each slice. Serve chilled or slightly softened at room temperature.

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How to Serve and Store Nanaimo Bars

These bars are best served chilled straight from the fridge. The layers stay beautifully intact, and the texture remains just right. If you want a slightly softer bite, leave them out for 5 minutes before serving.

To store, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to two months—just layer parchment between slices to prevent sticking.

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What to Serve With Classic Nanaimo Bars?

Espresso or Cold Brew

The richness of Nanaimo Bars pairs perfectly with bold coffee flavors.

Fresh Berries

Brighten the plate with strawberries or raspberries to cut through the sweetness.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Add a scoop for an indulgent dessert twist that complements the bars’ creamy filling.

Hot Chocolate

Double down on chocolate for cozy winter treats.

Salted Nuts

Provide a salty crunch to balance the sweet layers.

Whipped Cream with Citrus Zest

A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream and orange or lemon zest adds elegance.

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Want More Dessert Bar Ideas?

If you love these Classic Nanaimo Bars, you’ll probably enjoy these other layered treats from Savor Queen:

• Caramel Cheesecake Cookies for a gooey, creamy dessert.
• Condensed Milk Snow Cookies for melt-in-your-mouth simplicity.
• Cheesecake Brownies with swirls of indulgence.
• Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie for a dreamy no-bake pie.
• Mint Magic Bars for a festive, minty twist.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of almond extract or a sprinkle of sea salt? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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