Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Special equipment needed:
- 8x8 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and chopped walnuts.
2. In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
4. Press the mixture into the bottom of an 8x8 inch baking pan and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream and softened butter until smooth.
6. Gradually add powdered sugar and instant vanilla pudding mix, beating until well combined.
7. Spread the mixture over the chilled crust and refrigerate for another 30 minutes.
8. In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt semisweet chocolate chips and vegetable oil until smooth.
9. Pour the melted chocolate over the filling and spread evenly.
10. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until the chocolate is set.
11. Cut into squares and serve.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Temperature:
Refrigerate at 40°F or below.
Serving size:
Makes 16 bars.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 290
Total fat: 20g
Saturated fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 75mg
Total carbohydrate: 28g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Total sugars: 22g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Graham cracker crumbs can be substituted with crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers.
- Shredded coconut can be substituted with almond flour or crushed corn flakes.
- Chopped walnuts can be substituted with pecans or almonds.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with whipping cream or coconut cream.
- Semisweet chocolate chips can be substituted with dark chocolate or milk chocolate.
Variations:
- Add a layer of raspberry jam or strawberry preserves between the crust and filling for a fruity twist.
- Use white chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate for a sweeter finish.
- Add a tablespoon of instant espresso powder to the filling for a coffee-flavored twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a spatula to press the crust mixture firmly into the pan to ensure it stays together.
- Chill the crust before adding the filling to prevent it from becoming too soft.
- Use a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl to melt the chocolate to prevent burning.
- Allow the chocolate to cool for a few minutes before pouring it over the filling to prevent it from melting the filling.
Storage instructions:
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
Nanaimo bars are best served chilled, but can be brought to room temperature before serving.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the bars on a platter with fresh berries or mint leaves for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
Top the bars with a sprinkle of shredded coconut or chopped nuts for added texture.
Pairings:
Serve with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a sweet treat.
Suggested side dishes:
No side dishes needed.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the crust is too crumbly, add a tablespoon of melted butter to the mixture.
- If the filling is too soft, refrigerate it for an additional 30 minutes before adding the chocolate topping.
Food safety advice:
- Keep the bars refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Use pasteurized eggs to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
Food history:
Nanaimo bars are a Canadian dessert named after the city of Nanaimo in British Columbia. They are a no-bake treat that consists of a chocolate and coconut crust, a creamy vanilla filling, and a chocolate topping.
Flavor profiles:
Sweet, chocolatey, and nutty.
Serving suggestions:
Serve chilled for best results.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Canadian
Taste: Rich, Creamy, Sweet, Chocolatey, Nutty