Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsTwisted Cork BistroVancouver Island Nanaimo Bar Recipe

Vancouver Island Nanaimo Bar Recipe

Time40m
Serves16

Make Vancouver Island Nanaimo Bar Recipe in just 40m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Base Layer

Chocolate Topping

Method

Base Layer Preparation

  1. 1

    Melt Butter and Mix

    In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in 1 cup of granulated sugar until well combined.

  2. 2

    Add Dry Ingredients

    Remove from heat and mix in 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs, 0.5 cups of cocoa powder, 1 cup of shredded coconut, and 0.5 cups of chopped walnuts until all ingredients are evenly combined.

  3. 3

    Press into Pan

    Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking dish. Make sure to create an even layer.

Cream Layer Preparation

  1. 4

    Cream Butter and Sugar

    In a mixing bowl, beat together 0.5 cups of softened unsalted butter and 2 cups of powdered sugar until creamy and smooth.

  2. 5

    Add Flavoring and Color

    Mix in 2 tsp of vanilla extract and 2 tbsp of milk. If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring to achieve a pastel shade.

  3. 6

    Spread on Base Layer

    Spread the cream mixture evenly over the base layer in the baking dish, smoothing it out with a spatula.

Chocolate Topping Preparation

  1. 7

    Melt Chocolate

    In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 2 tbsp of unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.

  2. 8

    Pour Over Cream Layer

    Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cream layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula for a smooth finish.

  3. 9

    Chill Until Set

    Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate topping is set. Once set, cut into squares and serve.

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