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Cappuccino Nanaimo Bars Recipe


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  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 16-20 bars 1x

Description

These Cappuccino Nanaimo Bars are a coffee lover’s dream! With a rich, decadent coffee-flavored custard filling layered on top of a crunchy, chocolatey base and topped with a smooth chocolate layer, these no-bake bars are the perfect indulgence. Inspired by the classic Nanaimo bar, the added twist of cappuccino makes them a delightful treat for anyone who loves a bit of coffee in their desserts. Perfect for parties, gifts, or whenever you need a quick, flavorful treat!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Base:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Coffee Custard Layer:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder (or instant vanilla pudding mix)
  • 2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee, cooled
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Topping:

  • 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base:
    • In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Stir in the graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and walnuts (if using) until well combined.
    • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined 9×9-inch baking pan. Set aside.
  2. Make the Coffee Custard Layer:
    • In a separate bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, custard powder (or pudding mix), brewed coffee, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
    • Spread the custard mixture evenly over the base layer in the pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
  3. Prepare the Chocolate Topping:
    • In a heatproof bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate and butter together. You can do this in the microwave, stirring every 20 seconds, or over a double boiler.
    • Once melted and smooth, pour the chocolate mixture over the custard layer, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
  4. Chill and Set:
    • Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate topping is firm and the bars are fully set.
  5. Slice and Serve:
    • Once set, remove the bars from the pan and slice them into squares or rectangles. Serve chilled.

Notes

  • To make the coffee flavor stronger, you can increase the amount of brewed coffee in the custard layer.
  • For a smoother custard layer, make sure the butter is softened well before mixing.
  • These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 23g
  • Sodium: 60mg
  • Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg