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Knead Some Sweets
Knead Some SweetsVerified

January 29, 2026

A twist on a Canadian classic, these Coffee Nanaimo Bars feature a buttery chocolate coconut crust, coffee custard buttercream filling, and a chocolate layer on top!

Coffee Nanaimo Bars
Coffee Nanaimo Bars
Coffee Nanaimo Bars
Coffee Nanaimo Bars
Coffee Nanaimo Bars
Coffee Nanaimo Bars
Coffee Nanaimo Bars
Coffee Nanaimo Bars
Coffee Nanaimo Bars
Coffee Nanaimo Bars
Coffee Nanaimo Bars
Coffee Nanaimo Bars
Coffee Nanaimo Bars cover
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Coffee Nanaimo Bars

Ingredients

Milk and 5 other allergens identified

Instructions

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To make the Crust

1
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Line a 9x9-inch pan well with parchment paper. In a medium-size bowl combine the butter and chocolate chips. Heat in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each increment (or on the stove) until melted together. Add the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, graham cracker crumbs, and shredded coconut and stir until combined. Press into the prepared pan and refrigerate while making the custard layer.

To make the Custard Layer

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Dissolve the instant coffee granules in the hot water. In a medium-sized bowl, beat together the softened butter, custard powder, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and instant coffee mixture using a handheld mixer starting on low as the mixture starts to come together, adding up to 1 tablespoon of milk at this point. Turn up the mixer to high speed and beat 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 at least 30 minutes while you make the top layer.

To make the Top Layer

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Melt the chocolate chips and butter together in the microwave in 10-second increments (stirring well between each increment) or on the stovetop. Let cool slightly. Once the other layers have chilled, gently spread the chocolate mixture on top of the custard layer. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours. Slice into 24 squares to serve. Enjoy!

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Tips & Tricks (5)

  • Coffee Concentration Magic ☕
    For an intense coffee flavor in the custard layer, dissolve instant coffee granules in hot water and let cool completely before mixing to prevent heat from compromising the buttercream's texture.
  • Crust Compression Technique 🧊
    When pressing the chocolate coconut crust into the pan, use the bottom of a measuring cup or flat-bottomed glass to create an ultra-even, compact base that will hold together perfectly when sliced.
  • Chocolate Topping Pro Tip 🍫
    Melt chocolate chips with butter using a double boiler or microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring between each to prevent burning and achieve a smooth, glossy chocolate layer.
  • Chill for Clean Cuts 🔪
    Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before cutting, and run your knife under hot water and wipe dry between cuts for picture-perfect, clean-edged Nanaimo bars.
  • Moisture Control Hack 🧁
    If using cornstarch instead of custard powder, add an extra tablespoon to help stabilize the filling and prevent potential separation or weeping.

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About the Cook

Knead Some Sweets

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

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