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Talk about DECADENT! These homemade Nanaimo Bars are the epitome of Canadian baking - and you're gonna want to check out our recipe ASAP! (Psst: you don't need any custard powder to make it! Yay!)

Easy Nanaimo Bars Recipe (That Don’t Require Custard Powder)

This easy Nanaimo bars recipe will have youbegging for seconds (and thirds!). Each decadent layer boasts a flavor profilethat blends seamlessly with one another. You’ll also love the fact that it’s a no-bake dessert!
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Canadian
Servings 9 squares

Ingredients
  

For the Bottom Layer

  • ½ cup salted butter
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
  • 3 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 1 egg lightly beaten
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 ¾ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • ½ cup chopped nuts of your choice

For the Filling

  • 1/3 cup salted butter softened
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp vanilla pudding mix powder form
  • 2 cups powdered sugar

For the Chocolate Topping

  • 6 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chopped
  • 2 tbsp salted butter

Instructions
 

  • For the bottom layer, melt butter in a medium saucepan. Remove from heat and add brown sugar and cocoa powder. Whisk until well-combined.
  • While whisking, slowly pour in beaten egg. Return mixture to heat and cook for 1 to 2 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla. Use a large spoon or spatula to fold in graham cracker crumbs, coconut and pecans. Fold until all ingredients are well combined.
  • Line a square pan (9x9) with parchment paper, allowing an overhang on all sides. Evenly pack the graham cracker and chocolate mixture onto the bottom of the pan. Cover with plastic and refrigerate for one hour.
  • For the filling, use an electric mixer to whip together all ingredients. Star on low speed and slowly work your way to high until you reach a smooth consistency.
  • Spread the filling on top of your graham cracker and chocolate base. Chill for another 30 minutes.
  • For the top layer, melt chocolate and butter in a saucepan and spread evenly on top of the filling. Refrigerate for another 10 minutes.
  • Remove the dessert from the pan with the help of your parchment overhang. Use a serrated knife to cut into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Keyword Canadian desserts, desserts, Holiday desserts, Nanaimo bars