Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars
Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars Recipe - Canadian Dessert
Introduction
Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars are a delicious and decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, peanut butter, and coconut. These bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and are sure to be a hit with friends and family.
History
Nanaimo Bars are a classic Canadian dessert that originated in the city of Nanaimo, British Columbia. The original recipe dates back to the 1950s and has since become a beloved treat across Canada. The addition of peanut butter to the traditional Nanaimo Bar recipe adds a unique twist and a delicious flavor.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 tbsp Bird's custard powder
- 0.25 cup milk
- 2 tbsp softened butter
- 0.5 cup smooth peanut butter
- 2 cup sifted icing sugar
Icing
- 5 oz (142 g) chopped semisweet chocolate
- 1 tbsp butter
How to prepare
Base
- Melt the chocolate and butter in the microwave on high power for 2 minutes.
- Mix in the sugar, vanilla, and egg.
- Add the crumbs, coconut, and nuts.
- Press the mixture into a 9-inch square pan.
- Chill the base.
Filling
- Using an electric mixer, beat together all the ingredients.
- Spread the filling over the base and chill.
Icing
- Melt the chocolate with butter in a saucepan on medium power for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Spread the icing over the filling.
Variations
- Substitute almond butter or cashew butter for the peanut butter for a different flavor profile.
- Add a layer of raspberry jam or caramel sauce between the base and filling for a fruity or caramel twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to chill the base and filling layers before adding the icing to ensure that the layers set properly.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into even squares for a clean presentation.
- Store the bars in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and prevent the chocolate from melting.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee for a delightful treat.
Cooking Techniques
Use a double boiler to melt the chocolate for the icing to prevent burning.
- Use a stand mixer or hand mixer to beat the filling ingredients together for a smooth and creamy texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use gluten-free graham wafer crumbs for a gluten-free version of the bars.
- Substitute shredded almonds or pecans for the chopped nuts for a different nutty flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the bars to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Presentation Ideas
Dust the bars with cocoa powder or powdered sugar for a decorative touch. - Garnish the bars with chopped peanuts or coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delicious dessert combination.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To reheat, allow the bars to come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars contains approximately 15 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars contains approximately 4 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.
Alergens
Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars contain nuts, dairy, and gluten.
Summary
Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars are a delicious treat that is high in fats and carbohydrates. They are best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional indulgence.
Summary
Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, peanut butter, and coconut. These bars are easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy this sweet treat as a special indulgence or for a special occasion.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Martha who lived in a quaint little town by the sea. Martha was known for her delicious baked goods, and she had promised to show me her latest creation.
As I stepped into her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the sweet aroma of chocolate and peanut butter. Martha had a mischievous twinkle in her eye as she unveiled a tray of Nanaimo bars with a twist - a layer of creamy peanut butter sandwiched between the traditional chocolate and coconut layers.
I was instantly hooked. The combination of rich chocolate, smooth peanut butter, and crunchy coconut was a taste sensation like no other. I begged Martha to share the recipe with me, and she graciously agreed.
Martha explained that the recipe for Nanaimo bars originated from the city of Nanaimo in British Columbia, Canada. The original version consisted of a crumbly base layer topped with a custard-flavored butter icing and a layer of chocolate. Martha had decided to put her own spin on the classic recipe by adding a layer of peanut butter for extra indulgence.
I watched intently as Martha guided me through the steps, from melting the butter and mixing the graham cracker crumbs for the base, to whipping the peanut butter, butter, and powdered sugar for the creamy filling. The final touch was pouring a generous layer of melted chocolate over the top and letting it set in the refrigerator.
As we waited for the bars to chill, Martha regaled me with stories of her own culinary adventures. She had learned to cook from her grandmother, who had passed down recipes through generations. Martha had experimented with different flavors and techniques, always eager to put her own twist on traditional dishes.
I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. When Martha finally cut into the tray of Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars, I was in heaven. The bars were rich and decadent, with the perfect balance of salty peanut butter and sweet chocolate. I knew I had to share this recipe with my own family and friends.
Over the years, I have made these Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars countless times, each batch bringing back memories of that fateful day in Martha's kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who have become instant fans.
My grandmother's recipe collection has grown over the years, a testament to her love of cooking and sharing food with others. Each recipe tells a story, a moment in time when she discovered something new and delicious. And the recipe for Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bars will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy of discovery and the pleasure of sharing good food with the ones we love.
Categories
| Bar Cookie Recipes | Canadian Recipes | Coconut Recipes | Kid-friendly Recipes | Semi-sweet Chocolate Recipes |