Grandma Chase's Nanaimo Bars

Introduction

Grandma Chase's Nanaimo Bars are a tasty treat that everyone loves. With layers of chocolate, creamy filling, and a crunchy crust, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you are celebrating a birthday, having a family gathering, or just want something sweet, these bars are sure to impress.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Nanaimo Bars is fun and easy! They require no baking, and you can prepare them in just a few easy steps. Plus, they taste amazing and will have your friends and family asking for seconds. This recipe is a great way to introduce a new dessert that adds a little excitement to your dessert table!

How to Make Grandma Chase's Nanaimo Bars

Ingredients:

1/2 cup butter (for crust)
1/2 cup white sugar
5 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup chopped walnuts
2 cups confectioners' sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened (for filling)
3 tablespoons instant French vanilla pudding mix
3 tablespoons milk
4 ounces semisweet chocolate
2 tablespoons butter (for topping)

Directions:

Grease a 9×13 inch dish to prevent sticking.
For the crust, melt 1/2 cup of butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Stir in the white sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and mix in the beaten egg until well combined. Stir in the graham cracker crumbs and walnuts. Pack this mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
For the filling, beat together the confectioners' sugar, 1/2 cup softened butter, pudding mix, and milk until smooth and fluffy. Spread the filling over the cooled crust and refrigerate for another 30 minutes.
For the topping, melt the chocolate with 2 tablespoons of butter over very low heat, stirring until warm and pourable. Pour the topping over the filling, spreading to cover completely. Return to the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to cool. Once the topping is firm but not hard, cut into squares and refrigerate to finish chilling.

How to Serve Grandma Chase's Nanaimo Bars

When serving Nanaimo Bars, you can cut them into small squares. They are delightful on their own, but they can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. Great for sharing with friends and family!

How to Store Grandma Chase's Nanaimo Bars

To keep your Nanaimo Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can also be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to cut them into squares before freezing, and separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

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Tips to Make Grandma Chase's Nanaimo Bars

Make sure to melt the butter slowly to avoid burning.
Pack the crust tightly for a firm base.
Let the bars chill completely before cutting them for the best results.

Variation

You can switch things up by adding different nuts or using different kinds of chocolate for the topping. Almonds or pecans can give a nice twist. For a minty flavor, add a few drops of mint extract to the filling!

FAQs

1. Can I make Nanaimo Bars gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

2. How long do Nanaimo Bars last?
When stored properly, they can last up to a week in the refrigerator and three months in the freezer.

3. Can I make these bars without nuts?
Absolutely! You can either leave out the walnuts or replace them with more graham crumbs if you prefer a nut-free version.

Grandma Chase’s Nanaimo Bars