Easy Nanaimo Bars Recipe with No Baking Required

Name: Easy Nanaimo Bars Recipe with No Baking Required
Prep time: 20 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1/3 cup finely ground walnuts; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (for base); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups semi‑sweet chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon light corn syrup; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

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restaurantServes 12

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A quick, no‑bake version of the classic Canadian treat that delivers crunchy, creamy, and chocolatey layers in minutes.

Born in the early 1900s on Vancouver Island, Nanaimo bars are a beloved three‑layer dessert that has become a staple of Canadian comfort food. Their name honors the coastal city of Nanaimo, where local bakers first whispered about the perfect balance of a buttery crumb base, silky custard‑like middle, and rich chocolate topping.

What makes this version special is that you can enjoy the iconic texture and flavor without ever turning on the oven. By using simple pantry ingredients and a quick chill, the bars set beautifully, making them ideal for summer picnics or last‑minute holiday gatherings.

If you’re in the mood for more Canadian classics, try our Authentic Tourtière: French‑Canadian Meat Pie Recipe for a savory counterpart, or indulge in a sweet finish with our Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Expert Tip: For an extra bite of crunch, toast the walnuts lightly before grinding them into the base. This adds a subtle toasted flavor that elevates the whole bar.

Instructions

Combine graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, ground walnuts, granulated sugar, melted butter, and cocoa powder in a bowl; stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.

Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8‑inch square pan lined with parchment paper.

In a separate bowl, beat powdered sugar, softened butter, peanut butter, and vanilla until light and fluffy; spread evenly over the crust.

Melt chocolate chips, butter, corn syrup, and sea salt in a microwave‑safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.

Pour the chocolate glaze over the peanut‑butter layer, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm enough to cut.

Lift the set bars out using the parchment overhang and cut into squares. Serve chilled.

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