Ingredients with Measurements:
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter
- 5 tablespoons (75ml) cocoa powder
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup (50g) chopped almonds
- ½ cup (50g) shredded coconut
- 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons (50g) unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) honey
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) vanilla custard powder
- 2 cups (250g) confectioners’ sugar
- 4 ounces (113g) semi-sweet chocolate
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch (23cm) square baking pan
- Double boiler
- Electric mixer
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) square baking pan.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cocoa powder and sugar and stir until combined. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg and vanilla extract. Add the cocoa mixture and stir until combined.
4. Add the graham cracker crumbs, almonds, and coconut and stir until combined.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes. Let cool completely.
6. In a double boiler, melt the butter, cream, honey, and custard powder. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.
7. In a medium bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and melted butter mixture until combined.
8. Spread the mixture over the cooled crust.
9. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler and spread over the top.
10. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Serving Size: 9 bars
Nutritional Information: Calories: 437, Fat: 25g, Saturated Fat: 14g, Cholesterol: 63mg, Sodium: 104mg, Carbohydrates: 48g, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 33g, Protein: 4g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: Salted butter
- Cocoa powder: Carob powder
- Granulated sugar: Brown sugar
- Graham cracker crumbs: Digestive biscuit crumbs
- Chopped almonds: Chopped walnuts
- Shredded coconut: Chopped pecans
- Heavy cream: Coconut cream
- Unsalted butter: Coconut oil
- Honey: Maple syrup
- Vanilla custard powder: Vanilla pudding mix
- Confectioners’ sugar: Powdered sugar
- Semi-sweet chocolate: Dark chocolate
Variations:
- Add ½ cup (50g) of chopped dried fruit to the crust mixture.
- Substitute the semi-sweet chocolate with white chocolate.
- Add 1 teaspoon (5ml) of ground cinnamon to the custard layer.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to cool the crust completely before adding the custard layer.
- Use a double boiler to melt the chocolate for a smooth, glossy finish.
Storage Instructions:
Nanaimo bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Reheating Instructions:
Nanaimo bars can be reheated in the microwave for 30 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
- Cut the bars into small squares and serve on a platter.
- Serve the bars on a stick for a fun presentation.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped nuts over the top of the bars.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the bars.
Pairings:
- Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Serve with a scoop of ice cream.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fruit salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Potato salad
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the custard layer is too thin, add a little more confectioners’ sugar.
- If the custard layer is too thick, add a little more cream.
Food Safety Advice:
- Store the bars in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Discard any leftovers after 1 week.
Food History:
Nanaimo bars are a classic Canadian dessert that originated in the city of Nanaimo, British Columbia. The original recipe was created in the 1950s by a woman named Mabel Jenkins and has since become a popular treat across Canada.
Flavor Profiles:
Nanaimo bars have a sweet and creamy flavor with notes of chocolate, coconut, and almonds.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Nanaimo bars as a dessert after dinner.
- Serve Nanaimo bars as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Canadian
Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Nutty, Chocolatey, Rich