Description

A delicious twist on the classic Nanaimo bar, these layers combine a crunchy chocolate cookie base, a creamy cherry-infused custard middle, and a decadent dark chocolate topping. A perfect treat for special occasions.

Ingredients

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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
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice
1/4 cup chopped maraschino cherries
4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

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Instructions

In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and beaten egg. Stir in graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and walnuts (if using). Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8-inch square pan and refrigerate while you make the next layer.
In a separate bowl, beat softened butter with powdered sugar, custard powder, heavy cream, and maraschino cherry juice until smooth. Stir in chopped maraschino cherries.
Spread the custard layer evenly over the chilled base and return to the refrigerator to set for at least 30 minutes.
Melt the dark chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave, stirring every 20 seconds. Once melted and smooth, pour the chocolate over the custard layer and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate topping has set.
Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

Use high-quality chocolate for a smoother topping.
For cleaner cuts, warm your knife slightly before slicing the bars.
Store bars in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to one week.
Walnuts can be omitted for a nut-free version.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 28 g
Sodium: 60 mg
Fat: 21 g
Saturated Fat: 13 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 2 g
Cholesterol: 45 mg