Classic Nanaimo Bars

These rich and decadent no-bake chocolate custard bars originated in British Columbia, Canada in the 1930s. This is my version of the traditional recipe.

Classic Nanaimo Bars

Recipe by Lisa Turner Cuisine: Canadian Published on April 9, 2007 Classic Nanaimo bars — a rich and decadent no-bake chocolate custard bar recipe Preparation: 25 minutes Print this recipe Bottom layer: 1/2 cup unsalted butter 1/4 cup white sugar 5 tablespoons cocoa powder 1 egg, beaten 1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs 3/4 cups fine shredded unsweetened dried coconut Middle layer: 1/2 cup unsalted butter 3 tablespoons milk or plain yogurt 2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder 2 cups icing sugar Top layer: 1/2 cup dark chocolate 1/2 cup milk chocolate 3 tablespoons unsalted butter Instructions: To make the bottom layer, melt the butter, sugar and cocoa in a heavy saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the beaten egg and stir to cook and thicken. Remove from heat and stir in the graham cracker crumbs and coconut. Press firmly into an ungreased 9 × 9 inch baking pan. To make the middle layer, cream the butter, milk or yogurt, custard powder and icing sugar together in a mixing bowl. Beat until light. Spread over the bottom layer. Chill in the refrigerator while you make the third layer. Melt the chocolate and butter over low heat. Remove from heat and let stand to cool. When cool but still runny, spread over the middle layer. Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes. Use a sharp knife to cut into squares. Store in the refrigerator covered in foil or plastic wrap. Makes 9 three-inch squares