White Chocolate Nanaimo Bars
There’s nothing quite like the joy of discovering a new twist on an old classic, especially when it brings everyone to the kitchen with wide-eyed excitement. That’s exactly what happened when I first made these White Chocolate Nanaimo Bars. A little bit of a sweet adventure, these bars have quickly become a household favorite and a request at family gatherings. I still remember my kids’ eyes lighting up as they saw the creamy white chocolate layer resting atop a perfectly chewy, coconut-laced base. Even my husband, who usually goes for simpler desserts, couldn’t resist coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
Why did I decide to add white chocolate to the mix? Well, sometimes classic Nanaimo Bars deserve a bit of a glow-up! The white chocolate pairs so well with the rich, buttery base, adding a creaminess that keeps everyone guessing and coming back for more. There’s something so elegant yet homey about these bars. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, which is a huge bonus when I’m juggling school pickups and a mountain of laundry. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, these White Chocolate Nanaimo Bars are a game-changer for any busy parent looking for a treat that dazzles and delights.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe:
How long do these bars stay fresh?
You can keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully for up to three months.
Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Absolutely! If white chocolate isn’t your thing, feel free to experiment with dark or milk chocolate. It’ll change the flavor profile but still be delicious.
Can I make these dairy-free or gluten-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free chocolate and butter substitutes for a dairy-free version. For gluten-free bars, swap the graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free alternatives.
Do I have to use coconut in the base?
Not at all! If coconut isn’t a favorite in your family, you can leave it out or replace it with chopped nuts or extra graham crumbs.
What You Need to Make White Chocolate Nanaimo Bars:
Ingredients:
Graham cracker crumbs
Shredded sweetened coconut
Chopped almonds or walnuts (optional)
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Egg, beaten
Vanilla custard powder
White chocolate, melted
Heavy cream
Powdered sugar
Tools & Equipment:
Mixing bowls
8×8-inch baking pan
Heatproof spatula
Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate
How to Make It:
Prepare the Base: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add granulated sugar and cocoa powder, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and quickly whisk in the beaten egg, making sure the mixture doesn’t scramble. Stir in the graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and nuts until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into an 8×8-inch baking pan and chill in the refrigerator.
Make the Filling: Beat together the unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla custard powder, and heavy cream until light and fluffy. Spread evenly over the chilled base. Return the pan to the fridge and let it set.
Add the White Chocolate Topping: Melt the white chocolate and spread it smoothly over the custard layer. Let it chill again until fully set before slicing into bars.
Tips :
Press Firmly: When forming the base, make sure to press down firmly to create a sturdy foundation for the layers.
Use a Sharp Knife: When slicing, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean cuts and avoid cracking the chocolate layer.
Let Each Layer Chill: Don’t rush the process; giving each layer enough time to set will make slicing and serving a breeze.
Latest Reviews:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “These bars were a hit at my daughter’s birthday party! The white chocolate twist is genius. Will definitely make again!” – Maria S.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I loved the flavors, but the chocolate layer cracked a bit when slicing. Next time, I’ll let it warm up for a few minutes before cutting.” – Jake T.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for busy nights when you need a quick dessert. My family devoured them!” – Stephanie P.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great recipe! I made it gluten-free, and it worked perfectly. The base is chewy and delicious!” – Olivia B.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Good flavor, but a bit too sweet for me. Next time, I’ll try with dark chocolate.” – Cameron F.
Printable Recipe:
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White Chocolate Nanaimo Bars
Indulge in these White Chocolate Nanaimo Bars, a creamy and decadent take on the classic Canadian treat. Perfectly balanced layers of chocolate, custard, and coconut create a dessert that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Shredded sweetened coconut
- Chopped almonds or walnuts (optional)
- Unsalted butter
- Granulated sugar
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Egg, beaten
- Vanilla custard powder
- White chocolate, melted
- Heavy cream
- Powdered sugar
- Tools & Equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- 8x8-inch baking pan
- Heatproof spatula
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add granulated sugar and cocoa powder, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and quickly whisk in the beaten egg, making sure the mixture doesn’t scramble. Stir in the graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and nuts until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into an 8x8-inch baking pan and chill in the refrigerator.
- Make the Filling: Beat together the unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla custard powder, and heavy cream until light and fluffy. Spread evenly over the chilled base. Return the pan to the fridge and let it set.
- Add the White Chocolate Topping: Melt the white chocolate and spread it smoothly over the custard layer. Let it chill again until fully set before slicing into bars.
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