A No-Bake, Decadent Treat
If you love rich, chocolatey, and creamy desserts, then Classic Canadian Nanaimo Bars are a must-try! These iconic no-bake bars feature a chocolate-coconut nutty base, a smooth vanilla custard filling, and a glossy chocolate topping. Named after Nanaimo, British Columbia, these bars are a beloved Canadian treat enjoyed year-round.
I love this recipe because it’s simple, requires no baking, and delivers the perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, and chocolatey goodness. Whether you’re making them for holidays, potlucks, or an afternoon treat, Nanaimo Bars always steal the show!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Do I have to use custard powder?
Yes, custard powder (like Bird’s brand) gives the filling its classic texture and flavor. If unavailable, you can substitute with instant vanilla pudding mix, but the taste may differ slightly.
Q: Can I make Nanaimo Bars gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Q: How do I keep the chocolate layer from cracking when cutting?
Let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting, and use a warm knife to slice through smoothly.
Q: How long do Nanaimo Bars last?
Stored in an airtight container, they last up to 1 week in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer.
Q: Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes! Dark chocolate adds a richer, slightly bitter contrast to the sweet custard layer.
What You Need to Make Classic Nanaimo Bars
For the Base:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Custard Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons custard powder (Bird’s brand is traditional)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
How to Make Classic Nanaimo Bars
Step 1: Make the Base
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt butter, sugar, and cocoa powder, stirring until smooth.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the beaten egg until combined.
- Stir in graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and walnuts.
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan. Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Custard Filling
- In a bowl, beat together butter, powdered sugar, custard powder, and cream until smooth.
- Spread evenly over the chilled base. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Topping
- Melt chocolate and butter together using a double boiler or microwave in 20-second intervals.
- Pour over the custard layer and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate until set (about 1 hour).
Step 4: Slice & Serve
- Let bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing with a warm knife.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Nanaimo Bars
✔ Press the base firmly – This helps hold the layers together.
✔ Chill between layers – This makes the bars easier to assemble and cut.
✔ For smoother cuts – Use a warm, sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices.
✔ Want extra crunch? – Use toasted coconut or add chopped almonds to the base.
✔ Make them ahead – These bars taste even better after a day in the fridge!
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Emma L. – “The perfect Nanaimo Bar recipe! Just like the ones I had in Canada!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 James K. – “Super easy to make and SO delicious. The custard filling is spot on!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Samantha W. – “Best no-bake dessert ever! I used dark chocolate for the topping, and it was amazing.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Lucas R. – “Loved how rich and creamy these bars were. Perfect for a sweet treat!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Jessica T. – “I made a double batch for a party, and they disappeared in minutes!”
Printable Recipe
Classic Canadian Nanaimo Bars
These Classic Canadian Nanaimo Bars are a rich, no-bake dessert featuring a chocolate-coconut base, creamy custard filling, and smooth chocolate topping—a Canadian classic!
Ingredients
- For the Base:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- For the Custard Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons custard powder (Bird’s brand is traditional)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- For the Chocolate Topping:
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Base
- Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt butter, sugar, and cocoa powder, stirring until smooth.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the beaten egg until combined.
- Stir in graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and walnuts.
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan. Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Custard Filling
- In a bowl, beat together butter, powdered sugar, custard powder, and cream until smooth.
- Spread evenly over the chilled base. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Topping
- Melt chocolate and butter together using a double boiler or microwave in 20-second intervals.
- Pour over the custard layer and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate until set (about 1 hour).
Step 4: Slice & Serve
- Let bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing with a warm knife.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If you loved these Classic Canadian Nanaimo Bars, don’t keep them to yourself! Share them on social media, pin them on Pinterest, or send them to a friend who loves sweet treats. I’d love to see your versions—tag me if you try them!
