The Gourmet Mama

Having grown up just a stone’s throw away from the town of Nanaimo (ok, more like a ferry ride and a short drive), I am particularly fond of these Canadian sweets. They do seem to require a lot of ingredients, though, so the other night when I whipped up a batch, I just stuck to the very basics. These are quick and easy to make, even if you don’t have a lot of ingredients on hand!

Simple Nanaimo Bars

Makes 16 bars

Base Layer

1/2 c. butter

1/4 c. sugar

5 Tblsp. cocoa

1 egg, beaten

2 c. crushed graham crackers

Middle Layer

1/2 c. butter

4 Tblsp. milk

4 Tblsp. custard powder

2 c. icing sugar

Chocolate Layer

4 oz. semi sweet chocolate

2 Tblsp. butter

For the bottom layer, melt the butter in a pot over low heat, stirring constantly. Add the sugar and cocoa and stir until smooth. Gradually beat in the egg. Cook until thick and remove from the heat.

Add the cookies, stir well and press into an 8×8 pan. Put in the fridge to cool a little while you work on the next layer.

For the next layer, beat all ingredients together and spread over the bottom layer. Return to fridge.

Finally, melt the butter and chocolate in a double boiler (I used two plain milk chocolate chocolate bars) and spread over the icing layer. Chill and serve.

These are very addictive and WILL be scarfed down in seconds, trust me.