How To Prepare Nanaimo Bars

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Welcome to the world of Nanaimo Bars, a delightful Canadian treat with layers of goodness! These no-bake bars are quick to prepare, making them perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings in a flash.

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Ingredients:

For the Base:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
5 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 large egg, beaten
1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds)
For the Filling:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder (or instant vanilla pudding mix)
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk or cream
For the Topping:
4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Directions:

Prepare the Base:

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the sugar and cocoa powder until well combined.
Whisk in the beaten egg and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
Remove from heat and stir in the graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts until evenly mixed.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined 9×9-inch baking pan. Place in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.

Make the Filling:

In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, vanilla custard powder, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth and creamy.
Spread the filling evenly over the chilled base layer in the pan. Return to the refrigerator to set while you prepare the topping.

Prepare the Topping:

In a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the semi-sweet chocolate and butter together, stirring until smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the chilled filling layer, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Chill and Serve:

Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate topping is set.
Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.