No-Bake Dream in 3 Layers
Nanaimo bars are a classic Canadian dessert that has captured the hearts of sweet enthusiasts around the world. Originating from the city of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, this no-bake treat is known for its decadent layers and rich flavors. The bar features a crunchy base made from graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and cocoa, a creamy custard-flavored middle layer, and a smooth layer of chocolate ganache on top. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, Nanaimo bars offer a delightful indulgence that’s surprisingly easy to make. Join me as we delve into the history, ingredients, and step-by-step process of creating this beloved confection!
NANAIMO BARS
Description
Nanaimo bars are a classic Canadian dessert that has captured the hearts of sweet enthusiasts around the world. Originating from the city of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, this no-bake treat is known for its decadent layers and rich flavors.
Ingredients
Semisweet chocolate -4 ounces (115g)
Milk – 3 tablespoons (45ml)
Vanilla Pudding – 2 tablespoons (18g)
Powdered Sugar – 2 cups (240g)
Chopped Walnuts – 1/2 cup (50g)
Shredded Coconut – 1 cup (100g)
Graham Crackers Crumb – 2 cups (200g)
Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon
Egg – 1 large egg
Cocoa Powder – 5 tablespoons (30g)
Granulated Sugar – 1/4 cup (50g)
Unsalted Butter
Base Layer:
Unsalted butter – Melted 1/2cup (113g)
Granulated sugar
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Large egg
Vanilla extract
Graham cracker crumbs
Shredded sweetened coconut
Chopped walnuts (optional)
Middle Layer:
Unsalted butter – Softened 1/2 cup (113g)
Powdered sugar
Vanilla custard powder or instant vanilla pudding mix
Milk
Top Layer:
Semisweet chocolate
Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons (28g)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Base Layer
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.
- Add Sugar and Cocoa: Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar and cocoa powder until well combined.
- Add Egg: Gradually add the beaten egg, stirring constantly to prevent curdling.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Mix in the vanilla extract, graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and chopped walnuts (if using).
- Press into Pan: Press the mixture firmly into an ungreased 9×9-inch baking pan. Ensure the base is evenly spread and packed tightly.
-
Prepare the Middle Layer
- Cream the Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy
- Add Powdered Sugar and Custard Powder: Gradually add the powdered sugar and custard powder (or instant pudding mix), mixing well.
- Add Milk: Slowly add the milk and continue to beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Spread over Base: Spread the custard mixture evenly over the base layer. Chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to firm up.
-
Prepare the Top Layer
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the semisweet chocolate and butter together. Stir until smooth.
- Cool Slightly: Let the chocolate mixture cool slightly, but not enough to harden.
- Pour over Middle Layer: Pour the melted chocolate over the chilled middle layer. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
-
Chill and Serve
- Chill: Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate is set.
- Cut into Bars: Using a sharp knife, cut into squares or bars. To get clean cuts, you can warm the knife blade by running it under hot water and wiping it dry before each cut.
Notes
While Nanaimo bars can offer some nutritional benefits, it’s important to balance them with other nutrient-dense foods to maintain overall health. Remember, moderation is key when enjoying sweet treats.
Portion Size: Adjusting the size of the bars will change the nutritional values per serving.
Ingredients Variations: Substituting ingredients or altering the recipe (e.g., using low-fat butter or alternative sweeteners) can affect the nutritional profile.
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 - 350 kcal
- Sugar: 30 - 35 g
- Sodium: 80 - 100 mg
- Fat: 20 -25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 - 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 - 35 g
- Fiber: 2 - 3 g
- Protein: 3 - 5 g
- Cholesterol: 40 - 50 mg
HEALTH BENEFIT OF NANAIMO BARS
Nanaimo bars are a delicious treat, but they’re best enjoyed in moderation due to their high sugar and fat content. While they aren’t typically considered a health food, they do offer some benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet:
- Energy Boost
- High-Calorie Content: Nanaimo bars provide a quick source of energy thanks to their high-calorie ingredients like butter, sugar, and chocolate. This can be particularly useful for a quick energy boost when needed.
- Mood Enhancement
- Sugar and Chocolate: Both sugar and chocolate can stimulate the release of endorphins and serotonin in the brain, which can improve mood and provide a sense of pleasure and satisfaction.
- Nutrient Content
- Coconut: The shredded coconut in the base layer contains fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. Coconut also provides essential minerals such as manganese, which supports bone health and metabolism.
- Nuts: If you include walnuts or other nuts in the base layer, they add healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals like magnesium and vitamin E, which are good for heart health and overall wellness.
- Antioxidants
- Cocoa Powder and Dark Chocolate: Both contain antioxidants known as flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
- Occasional Treat Benefits
- Mental Health: Treating yourself occasionally to foods you enjoy can contribute to overall happiness and mental well-being. Allowing yourself to indulge in moderation can prevent feelings of deprivation that often lead to unhealthy eating patterns.
Key Points
- Calories: Nanaimo bars are calorie-dense, primarily from the fats and sugars.
- Fat: High in total and saturated fat due to butter and chocolate content.
- Cholesterol: Contains cholesterol from the butter and eggs used in the recipe.
- Carbohydrates: High in sugars, contributing to the total carbohydrate content.
- Fiber: Provides some dietary fiber from coconut and nuts, if included.
- Protein: Contains a small amount of protein, primarily from nuts and eggs.
- Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin A: Derived from butter and eggs.
- Iron: Present in cocoa and nuts.
- Calcium: Comes from butter and potentially added milk in the custard layer.
