Description
Craving a no-bake dessert that’s rich, creamy, and perfectly layered? These Classic Nanaimo Bars are the treat for you! With a chewy chocolate-coconut base, a sweet custard-flavored buttercream center, and a silky layer of chocolate on top, this iconic Canadian treat is an easy recipe that’s always a hit. Perfect for potlucks, holiday platters, or satisfying late-night cravings, this easy dessert idea fits right in with quick snacks, holiday baking, and indulgent food ideas. Whether you want a crowd-pleaser or a cozy sweet for yourself, this layered bar delivers.
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup granulated sugar
5 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 large egg, beaten
1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
2 tablespoons custard powder (or instant vanilla pudding mix)
2 cups powdered sugar
4 ounces semisweet chocolate
2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
1. In a saucepan, melt 1/2 cup butter. Stir in sugar and cocoa powder until smooth.
2. Add the beaten egg and cook on low, stirring until thickened.
3. Remove from heat. Stir in graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and walnuts.
4. Press the mixture into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan and set aside.
5. In a bowl, beat softened butter with custard powder and powdered sugar until fluffy.
6. Spread evenly over the base layer and smooth out.
7. Melt chocolate and heavy cream together until smooth, then let it cool slightly.
8. Pour over the custard layer and tilt the pan to spread evenly.
9. Chill for at least 2 hours until firm.
10. Cut with a warm knife for clean edges and serve chilled.
Notes
Use room temperature butter for the filling to ensure it’s fluffy and spreadable.
For clean chocolate topping, allow it to set fully in the fridge before slicing.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Canadian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: no bake dessert, classic nanaimo bars, layered dessert, custard slice, chocolate bars