Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars

Indulge in the rich, no-bake decadence of Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars, a Canadian classic with a creamy twist. These three-layered dessert bars feature a crunchy base of graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and nuts melded with rich cocoa, followed by a luscious peanut butter filling, and topped with a smooth, glossy layer of melted chocolate. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or anytime you crave a sweet treat, this recipe combines simple ingredients with bold flavors for a dessert that’s both nostalgic and innovative. With just 25 minutes of prep time and no baking required, these irresistible bars are a must-try for peanut butter and chocolate lovers alike!

Nutriscore Rating: 43/100

Prep Time:25 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 16

Ingredients

• 0.5 cup Unsalted butter
• 0.25 cup Granulated sugar
• 5 tablespoons Unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 Large egg
• 1.5 cups Graham cracker crumbs
• 0.75 cup Shredded unsweetened coconut
• 0.5 cup Chopped pecans or walnuts
• 0.5 cup Smooth peanut butter
• 0.5 cup Unsalted butter (for filling)
• 2 cups Powdered sugar
• 1 cup Semisweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter (for topping)

Directions

Step 1

Grease and line an 8x8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Step 2

Prepare the base: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter, then stir in granulated sugar and cocoa powder until smooth.

Step 3

Whisk in the egg and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 4

Stir in graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts until fully combined. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.

Step 5

Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, beat 1/2 cup peanut butter and 1/2 cup butter together until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until smooth.

Step 6

Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the chilled base layer. Return the pan to the fridge for another 15 minutes.

Step 7

Prepare the topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt semisweet chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons butter in 20-second increments, stirring after each, until smooth.

Step 8

Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly with a spatula.

Step 9

Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until fully set.

Step 10

Once set, remove the bars from the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into 16 squares with a sharp knife. Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1237.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	6191.5

Total Fat 398.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 201.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 630.3mg	0%
Sodium 1731.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 642.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 55.5g	0%
Total Sugars 472.4g
Protein 79.8g	0%

Vitamin D 113.3IU	0%
Calcium 411.6mg	0%
Iron 26.3mg	0%
Potassium 2009.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 55.4%

Protein: 4.9%

Carbs: 39.7%