Nanaimo Bars

  • Cosmicmother 7 years ago
    The Ultimate Nanaimo Bar by Je-suis-cindy

    This is the same recipe as the contest winner on the city of Nanaimo's website. I've used it for years and it is my favorite recipe. The only thing wrong is she listed 1-3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs instead of 1-1/4 cup. However I often use the 1-3/4 cup of graham if I leave out the 1/2 cup of ground almonds. My MIL always uses chopped walnuts, but I like them plain or with the almonds.
    Homemade versions are far less sweet then the commercially made ones. And if you use bittersweet chocolate in the topping than they are less sweet and perfect for me! I just love Nanaimo bars, and it feels wrong to not make them at Christmas time, lol..;)

    For those who have not made them before, a couple tricks I have learned are:
    -Line the pan with over hanging foil or parchment paper on two sides so it's easy to lift out and cut.
    -I like to chill the bottom layer in the freezer while making the middle topping, and also chill the middle layer so the chocolate layer is easier to spread across.
    -Score the chocolate layer with a sharp knife just before it's completely set, that way when you cut through the bars the chocolate won't crack into pieces.
    -I like to lift the bars out of the pan and onto a cutting board; and cut the cooled bars with a large knife or pastry/bench scraper. (A small knife can making sawing motions and the sides of the bars won't be as neat looking)
    -Keep chilled in the fridge, will last a week or more, or freeze for up to 8 months.
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  • NadineM 7 years ago said:
    Hi Cosmicmother great pic. DS#1 had asked for Nanaimo Bars and this is one on the list to try. I am happy that this one worked out for you. will have to try soon.
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  • chuckieb 7 years ago said:
    Oh my goodness that looks delicious Shona. You're killin' me.
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  • bakerme 7 years ago said:
    Oh my gosh, those sound decadent! Beautiful photo, Cosmicmom! I've never had a nanaimo bar, but saved the recipe to try "some day" ;)
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  • gaspesiangal 7 years ago said:
    They do look decadent!! I'll tuck this one away for another day.
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  • mommyluvs2cook 7 years ago said:
    They are beautiful!! I love all the different layers, the custard layer looks so fluffy and light :) What are graham wafer crumbs, or are they just graham cracker crumbs?
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  • Cosmicmother 7 years ago said:
    Thanks everyone! They sure are a decadent treat!

    Yep, graham wafer crumbs are the same as graham cracker crumbs :)

    I added some tips up top for those who haven't made them before as I realized the recipe instructions are a little too simple! ;)
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  • mommyluvs2cook 7 years ago said:
    Great tips Shona, thanks for adding!!
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