Nanaimo Bars are one of those desserts easy to have a love hate relationships with. They are so richly wonderful you love to eat them and after you have eaten too many you hate them. Make them for any occasion.

I don’t make Nanaimo Bars very often. For family members celebrating a birthday I try to make their favorite dessert. Nanaimo Bars are easily one of Patrick’s favorite. He was our October birthday. My husband and I took trip to Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada a few years ago where I found this recipe. I am reminded of that trip each time they are made.

Bottom Layer

1/2 cup butter

1/4 cup sugar

5 tbsp cocoa (dry)

1 egg beaten

1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 24 squares)

1/2 cup finely chopped almonds (I start with slivered almonds)

1 cup coconut

Melt first three ingredients in top of a double boiler. Add egg and stir to cook and thicken. Remove from heat. Stir in crumbs, coconut and nuts. Press firmly into a unreleased 8′ X 8″ pan.

Middle Layer

1/2 cup butter

2 tbsp + 2 tsp cream

2 tbsp vanilla custard powder

2 cups powdered sugar

Cream butter, cream, custard powder and sugar together well. Beat until light. Spread over bottom layer.

Top Layer

4 squares semi-sweet chocolate ( 1 oz each )

2 tbsp butter

Melt chocolate and butter over low heat. Cool. When cool, but still liquid, pour over second layer and chill in refrigerator.

Make some today. You’ll become a lover too!