Online Cook
  • VE
  • LC

Knead Some Sweets
Knead Some SweetsVerified

January 26, 2026

Classic Nanaimo Bars are a beloved Canadian dessert featuring layers of chocolate coconut graham crumb crust, creamy custard buttercream, and chocolate on top.

Classic Nanaimo Bars
Classic Nanaimo Bars
Classic Nanaimo Bars
Classic Nanaimo Bars
Classic Nanaimo Bars
Classic Nanaimo Bars
Classic Nanaimo Bars
Classic Nanaimo Bars
Classic Nanaimo Bars
Classic Nanaimo Bars
Classic Nanaimo Bars
Classic Nanaimo Bars cover
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
1/12

Classic Nanaimo Bars

Ingredients

Milk and 5 other allergens identified

Instructions

Print

Check out original post! 😊

For the Crust

1
|
LIne a 9x9-inch pan with parchment paper or wax paper. Combine graham crumbs, cocoa, powdered sugar, and coconut. In a separate dish, melt the butter and chocolate chips together in the microwave in 15-second increments, stirring between each increment. Add to the dry ingredients and mix until combined. Press firmly into the prepared pan and refrigerate while making the custard layer.

For the Custard Layer

1
|
Beat together softened butter, custard powder, milk, and powdered sugar using a handheld mixer starting on low and increasing to high as the mixture starts to come together. Beat on high speed for 2 minutes or until fluffy. Using an offset spatula, gently spread the custard onto the chilled crust, being careful not to pull up the crust layer. Refrigerate for 1 hour.

For the Top Layer

1
|
Gently melt the chocolate chips and butter together in the microwave in 15-second increments or on the stovetop. Once the other layers have chilled, gently spread the chocolate mixture on top of the custard layer. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Slice into 32 squares to serve. Enjoy!

Smart Nutrition

My Calorie Intake

Review & Earn

Be the first to review this recipe and earn a 20% Bonus

Level up & unlock free Premium by reviewing recipes!

My Notes

Your kitchen notebook is waiting.

Whether it's a recipe tweak or an inspiration burst — jot it down here.

Tips & Tricks (5)

  • Chill for Perfection 🧊
    Refrigerate each layer for at least 30 minutes between assembly to ensure clean, distinct layers and easy cutting of the Nanaimo bars.
  • Custard Powder Precision 🥄
    If you can't find custard powder, substitute with instant vanilla pudding mix for an authentic flavor and creamy texture.
  • Crumb Crust Compression 🥄
    When pressing the graham cracker crust into the pan, use the bottom of a measuring cup to create a compact, even layer that holds together perfectly.
  • Chocolate Tempering Trick 🍫
    Melt the top chocolate layer using a double boiler or microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring between each to prevent burning and achieve a glossy finish.
  • Clean Cut Technique 🔪
    Run a sharp knife under hot water and wipe dry before cutting to get clean, precise slices through the layered bars.

Intelligent Tags

About the Cook

Knead Some Sweets

Hi, I'm Naomi! Recipe developer, food photographer, author, and baking enthusiast behind Knead Some Sweets.

Fire Icon

More Recipes

Browse Knead Some Sweets recipes!

View
cookie Icon

Complete The Meal! 🔎

Quick Explore Recipes by Category

See All

No Recipes Available

sparkle

Recommendations

Tailored to your preferences

View All