Nanaimo Bars

A legendary no-bake Canadian treat, the Nanaimo Bar is a trifecta of textures and flavors. Named after the city of Nanaimo, British Columbia, this dessert bar features three distinct layers. The bottom is a dense, chocolatey base made of graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and nuts. The middle layer is a sweet, creamy custard-flavored buttercream. And the top is a simple, crisp layer of semi-sweet chocolate. It’s rich, decadent, and incredibly satisfying. Since it requires no baking, it’s a great recipe for getting kids involved in the kitchen or for making ahead for a party or potluck. Just be sure to allow enough chilling time for the layers to set properly. The base layer is cooked briefly on the stove to melt the butter and cook the egg, which acts as a binder. The custard powder in the middle layer is what gives it its characteristic yellow color and vanilla flavor. If you can't find custard powder, you can substitute it with vanilla pudding mix. The final chocolate topping should be thin and crisp, providing a satisfying snap when you bite into the bar. This is a dessert that is beloved across Canada and is a must-try for any sweet tooth.