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Recipe

Nanaimo Bars

Posted 5/13/26

This no-bake classic is a rich chocolate-coconut base, creamy vanilla custard filling and smooth chocolate topping for an indulgent sweet treat.

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Recipe

Nanaimo Bars

Posted

I’ve missed this after moving to Colorado from Canada years ago. This no-bake treat features three distinct layers: a rich, chocolatey base made with graham cracker crumbs, cocoa, and coconut; a creamy, vanilla custard middle layer; and a smooth, chocolate topping that adds the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy a true Canadian classic!

Ingredients:

For the base:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/4 cup granulated sugar

5 Tablespoons cocoa powder

1 large egg, beaten

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

 

For the middle layer:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

2 Tablespoons instant vanilla pudding mix

3 Tablespoons milk or heavy cream

For the top layer:

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

2 Tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions:

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the sugar and cocoa powder until smooth.

Slowly add the beaten egg, stirring constantly to avoid curdling. Cook the mixture for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, graham cracker crumbs, and coconut. Mix until well combined.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 8×8-inch baking pan. Refrigerate while preparing the next layer.

 In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, pudding mix, and milk until smooth and creamy.

Spread the custard mixture evenly over the chilled base layer. Return to the refrigerator to set.

 In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips and butter together, stirring until smooth. Alternatively, heat the chips and butter in the microwave in 10-second bursts, until all is melted (chips hold their shape after they are melted; poke one to see if it’s soft).

Pour the melted chocolate over the custard layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

 Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until the top layer is set.

Once fully chilled, cut into squares using a sharp knife. For clean edges, wipe the knife between cuts. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.