Classic Canadian Nanaimo Bars
Dec 13, 2025 12:29 PM
These no-bake Nanaimo Bars are a classic Canadian treat with a chocolate coconut graham cracker base, creamy custard filling, and a smooth chocolate top. A recipe straight from the Canadian roots!
Nanaimo Bars are a true Canadian classic. They’re made with three simple layers: a chocolate coconut graham cracker base, a custard buttercream center, and a glossy chocolate topping. No oven needed, and the flavor combination is always a hit.
This iconic treat is named after the city of Nanaimo in British Columbia, where it first became popular in the mid-20th century. Since then, the recipe has spread across Canada and beyond, earning a spot at bakes sales and potlucks alongside other Canadian classics like maple leaf sandwich cookies and old-fashioned butter tarts.
Ingredients:
First Layer
- ½ cup butter
- 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons unsweetened dutch processed cocoa (sifted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg beaten (room temperature)
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup coconut unsweetened
- ½ cup finely chopped walnuts
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Second Layer
- 2 cups powdered / icing sugar
- 2 tabelspoons custard powder
- 3 tablespoons cream
- ¼ cup butter (softened)
Third Layer
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons milk (2% or whole)
- 4 ounces semi sweet chocolate (chopped) good quality
Prep Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
150 minutes
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