What are Nanaimo bars? Nanaimo bars are a Canadian no-bake treat that originated in the city of Nanaimo, located in British Columbia. This treat became popular in the mid-20th century and is still a favorite in Canada. Although the traditional recipe has evolved over time, Nanaimo bars retain their essence: three distinctive layers with a unique texture and an unmistakable sweet taste. This baking classic is a must-have in Canadian homes. Would you like to discover more about one of the most beloved Canadian foods?
Nanaimo bars: A Canadian classic
This iconic delicacy, known for its unique texture and three distinctive layers, has been long debated and there remains speculation concerning its true origins. Some historians suggest ancient European recipes for layered desserts may have inspired it. However, the first documented reference to Nanaimo bars appears in the 1952 Women's Auxiliary to the Nanaimo Hospital Cookbook, where the sweet was called "Chocolate Square." Some time later, an almost identical recipe, called "Nanaimo Bar," was published in Edith Adams' cookbook, solidifying its identity in Canadian gastronomy.
Did you know that an episode of the first season of the MasterChef Canada competition show features an elimination challenge in which contestants made desserts inspired by Nanaimo bars?
Susan Mendelson, a chef and entrepreneur, takes center stage in this part of the story. Although Susan Mendelson was not the original creator of the Nanaimo Bar, her role in the commercialization and popularity of the dessert was very important. In the 1970s, Mendelson began selling Nanaimo square bars to fund her studies.
In 1979, she co-founded The Lazy Gourmet, a coffee shop and catering business in Vancouver, bringing the treat to a broader audience. Mendelson's Nanaimo bar recipe gained such notoriety that it was published in The New York Times, and her 1980 cookbook Mama Never Cooked Like This helped spread the popular bars in Canada and beyond the country.
Becoming an iconic Canadian delicacy
In 1985, the mayor Graeme Roberts held a contest to find the ultimate recipe for Nanaimo bars. The winner was Joyce Hardcastle, whose version made this square confection even more official as a symbol of local gastronomy. However, Nanaimo bars achieved international recognition during Expo 86, the World Transportation and Communications Exposition held in Vancouver in 1986.
Today, Nanaimo bars are an icon of the culture. These can be easily found in places like Costco, Starbucks and many coffee shops and bakeries throughout Canada and the United States. They are a classic among families and have become a must for those who want to enjoy the traditional flavors of this region.
Exploring the three-layered composition
Nanaimo bars are an iconic dessert that stands out for its perfect balance between texture and flavor. Let's discover the key ingredients that compose their three layers:
1. Sweet and crunchy crust 🥥
The Nanaimo bar base consists of graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, chopped walnuts or almonds, and cocoa powder, bound with melted butter and sometimes a lightly beaten egg for firmness. The crust offers a crunchy texture and balanced flavors, with hints of chocolate and nuts.
2. Light vanilla filling 🍦
The middle layer is creamy, made with butter, sugar, heavy or whipping cream, and vanilla custard powder to get its characteristic pale yellow color. Some modern versions replace the custard powder or include a touch of almond essence or rum for a unique twist.
3. Rich chocolate layer 🍫
The top is a simple, delicious ganache made of semisweet chocolate melted with butter. As it cools, it takes on a firm, brittle texture that contrasts significantly with the smoothness of the filling. Some recipes add dark chocolate and an extra touch of sea salt to enhance the flavors.
4. Extra notes for their preparation 📝
The vanilla filling can be enriched with other ingredients, such as chocolate chips, mint, or coffee, to satisfy different palates and dietary restrictions.
Although the mix is traditionally prepared in square molds and cut into small portions, the popularity of Nanaimo bars has inspired modern and creative presentations, such as individual cakes or mini bites.
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How to prepare Nanaimo bars?
Nanaimo bars are easy to make and have become a favorite homemade treat since they don't require baking. Below, you find a summary of how to prepare this traditional chocolate bars:
1. Mix the dry ingredients: graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, and diced nuts.
2. Add the melted butter gradually and blend.
3. Once the mixture is homogeneous, press it firmly.
4. When finished, refrigerate the container to solidify.
1. Mix the butter, sugar, vanilla custard powder, and pastry cream in a bowl until smooth.
2. Once the mixture is ready, spread this layer evenly over the base of the cooled crust.
3. Put it in the fridge again for some minutes until firm.
1. To prepare the chocolate topping, mix the chocolate and butter.
2. Pour the mix over the other layers.
3. Refrigerate again until the topping has hardened.
4. Cut it into squares or rectangles.
5. Enjoy your chocolate bars cold.
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Modern twists on the traditional recipe
Although the traditional version is always appreciated, pastry chefs have developed new versions of these famous bars. Nanaimo bars have inspired numerous modern versions that maintain their essence while exploring new flavors and adaptations:
- Nanaimo mint bars: These versions add a refreshing touch thanks to a mint-flavored pastry filling, ideal for those who enjoy fresh and sugary combinations.
- Peanut butter Nanaimo Bars: These bars include a peanut butter filling that complements the traditional flavors with an extra twist.
- Vegan or gluten-free options: Ideal for those with dietary restrictions, these versions use ingredients such as coconut oil, almond flour, and dairy-free pastry while retaining the signature balance of textures and flavors of Nanaimo bars.
Discover one of the most emblematic desserts in Canada!
Become the best cook with private classes!
Can you imagine yourself participating in Master Chef? Whether you're studying for a culinary arts degree or want to get into the exciting world of cooking, taking cooking classes can be a great choice. You can learn to prepare traditional dishes like poutine from scratch, perfect classic recipes like Nanaimo bars, or explore new techniques to impress your friends and family. With Superprof, you can develop your culinary skills and move towards mastery in the kitchen at your own pace.
Superprof is one of the most recognized tutoring platforms in the country. Through it, you can easily find a cooking teacher that suits your needs, budget, and location in Canada. From basic knowledge to advanced techniques, Superprof connects you with cooking experts to transform your passion for food into real culinary skills.
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Why hire a cooking teacher in Canada?
Our instructors offer instruction that is 100% customized to your interests. But what could you learn in a cooking class? Find out below:
- Learn culinary techniques: From simple knife handling and vegetable cutting techniques to more advanced skills such as vacuum cooking, these give you a good foundation for experimenting with each recipe.
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Personalized instruction is very helpful in achieving any of your goals. The guidance and support of a professional will allow you to learn the fundamental techniques and create a solid foundation to start off on the right foot. Join the Superprof family and become a cooking expert today!
Wrap up!
Nanaimo bars represent a significant example of how pastries can reflect local traditions and evolve. From their first documented appearance in a community recipe book in 1952 to their popularization at events such as Expo 86, these bars have maintained their traditional composition while incorporating new variations to suit different food preferences and modern food trends. Their simple yet well-structured design has made this treat a culinary symbol of the Nanaimo region.
Understanding what Nanaimo bars are in their historical and culinary context explains why this simple yet delicious and traditional layered dessert holds a special place in the hearts of Canadian families. It's interesting how food can connect us to places, history, and shared traditions!
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