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Let me share my love for Nanaimo Bars the most delicious treat from Canada. With three amazing layers chocolate coconut crust creamy custard middle and rich chocolate top they're simply irresistible. Every time I make them they disappear in minutes.
Why You'll Fall in Love
These no-bake beauties are pure magic. The way those layers come together creates something so special. Perfect for when you want to wow people without spending hours in the kitchen.
What You'll Need
- Graham Crackers: One and half cups crushed for that perfect base.
- Coconut: One cup shredded adds such lovely texture.
- Walnuts: Half cup chopped fine gives nice crunch.
- Butter: Three quarters cup melted makes everything rich.
- Custard Powder: Two tablespoons that's the secret ingredient.
- Powdered Sugar: Two cups for sweetness.
- Chocolate: Eight ounces the good stuff.
- Egg: One large binds our crust.
- Milk: Three tablespoons for perfect custard.
- Vanilla: One teaspoon pure extract.
Let's Make Them Together
- Start With The Base
- Melt butter sugar and cocoa over simmering water whisk in that egg until it thickens. Mix in graham crumbs coconut and walnuts press it all into your pan. Into the fridge it goes.
- Make The Filling
- Beat your butter sugar custard powder milk and vanilla until it's light and fluffy. Spread it over your chilled base give it time to set up.
- Top It Off
- Melt that chocolate with a touch of butter spread it nice and even. Back to the fridge until it sets.
- Time To Share
- Use a hot knife for clean cuts. I love serving these straight from the fridge when they're nice and firm.
My Best Tips
Really press that crust down firmly makes such a difference. Use the best chocolate you can find balances all the sweetness perfectly. Score the top layer before it sets completely helps prevent cracking.
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Keep Them Fresh
These bars stay perfect in the fridge for about 5 days. Want to save some for later? They freeze beautifully up to 3 months. Just separate layers with parchment paper.
Mix It Up
Try different nuts or add orange flavor to the custard layer. Sometimes I use white chocolate on top for a pretty change. Every version brings its own magic.
Gluten Free Friends
Use gluten free graham crackers works perfectly. Just check all your ingredients especially that custard powder to keep everyone safe and happy.
Canadian Treasure
These bars are such a special part of Canadian dessert history. They remind me of visiting family up north those sweet memories come flooding back with every bite.
Perfect For Everything
From holiday tables to casual coffee dates these bars fit right in. Those pretty layers catch everyone's eye and that first bite always brings smiles.
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Keep It Nut Free
For friends with allergies crushed pretzels work beautifully instead of nuts. Still get that lovely crunch and everyone can enjoy them safely.
Sweet Your Way
Like things less sweet? Try dark chocolate on top or cut back the sugar in your filling. Make them just the way you love them.
Perfect Pairings
Nothing beats these with a hot cup of coffee or tea. They're rich enough to feel special but not too heavy perfect afternoon treat.
Think Small
Try making mini versions in cupcake liners so cute for parties. Plus everyone gets their own perfect little treat no cutting needed.
Layer Love
Take your time with each layer let them set properly. That patience gives you those beautiful clean layers that make everyone say wow.
Top It Off
Sometimes I sprinkle coconut or crushed nuts on the chocolate before it sets. Makes them look extra special and adds nice texture too.
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Freezer Ready
I love having a batch in the freezer ready for surprise visits. Such a treat pulling out something this special at a moment's notice.
Chocolate Magic
Try mint chocolate or orange chocolate on top adds such fun flavor. Amazing how many ways you can make these bars your own.
Share The Love
These make such thoughtful gifts. Pack them in pretty boxes add a note about their Canadian heritage. Everyone loves a homemade treat with a story.
Always A Classic
There's something special about desserts that stand the test of time. These bars bring together simple ingredients in such a magical way no wonder they're still beloved after all these years.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is custard powder and can I substitute it?
- Bird's custard powder is traditional, but vanilla pudding mix can work in a pinch. The flavor and color will be slightly different.
- → How do I get clean cuts on the bars?
- Use a hot knife, cleaning and reheating between cuts. Run the knife under warm water and dry it before each slice.
- → Can I freeze these bars?
- Yes, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator.
- → Why does the base layer need chilling?
- Chilling helps set the base firmly before adding the custard layer, preventing mixing of the layers.
- → Can I use different nuts?
- While walnuts are traditional, you can substitute almonds or pecans. The texture should remain finely ground.