Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars
The ultimate sweet treat, Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars are layered with a buttery base, creamy peanut filling, and luscious chocolate topping. They’re perfect for any occasion and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Treat yourself to these easy-to-make bars tonight!
Equipment
- Frying Pan
- Whisk
- Food Processor
- Oven
- Large Pot
- Chef's Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Wooden Spoon
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- ¾ cup unsalted butter melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¾ cup shredded sweetened coconut
- ⅓ cup cocoa powder
- 1¼ cups creamy peanut butter
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ⅓ cup milk
- 8 ounces semisweet chocolate finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and eggs. Use a whisk to blend everything together until smooth and fluffy.
- Next, add the graham cracker crumbs, shredded sweetened coconut, and cocoa powder to the bowl. With a large wooden spoon, stir until all the ingredients are well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. With damp fingers or the back of a spoon, press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan to create a solid base.
- Bake the base in your preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until it’s firm and no longer shiny. The top should have a slight golden hue. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
- While the base is cooling, prepare the filling. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and unsalted butter. Microwave in short increments, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Alternate with the milk, ensuring the filling is creamy and free of lumps.
- Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the cooled base. Smooth the top with a spatula and refrigerate for about one hour, or until firm.
- As the filling sets, prepare the topping. Melt the semisweet chocolate and the remaining unsalted butter using a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
- Once melted, pour the chocolate mixture over the chilled peanut butter filling, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface. Let it set at room temperature, or if you’re in a hurry, pop it in the fridge.
- Once the chocolate is set, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut them into squares for serving. Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars!
Notes
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature. If you prefer them chilled, keep them in the fridge for a refreshing snack.