No-Bake Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake Recipe: Dreamy Canadian Treat

Sweet dreams come alive with this decadent Nanaimo bar cheesecake that blends creamy Canadian dessert magic into an irresistible no-bake sensation.

Layers of chocolate, custard, and rich cheesecake create a luxurious treat everyone will adore.

Maple-inspired flavors dance across each delightful bite, promising pure indulgence.

Crumbly chocolate base gives way to silky smooth filling that melts perfectly on your tongue.

Chilled perfection awaits with minimal effort and maximum flavor impact.

Each slice tells a story of comfort and culinary creativity.

You’ll want to savor every single mouthwatering moment of this spectacular dessert.

No-Bake Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake to Savor

• Savor No-Bake Convenience: Skip the oven and create a decadent dessert without turning on any heat, making this recipe perfect for busy cooks who want maximum taste with minimal effort.
• Layer Like a Pro: Experience a delightful combination of textures from the crunchy graham cracker base to the creamy custard and smooth cheesecake topped with rich chocolate, creating a dessert that's a true flavor adventure.
• Perfect for Crowd-Pleasing Moments: Ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, and special celebrations where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, this dessert guarantees smiles and compliments from everyone.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or adjust quantities to match personal preferences, making this recipe wonderfully adaptable for different tastes and dietary needs while maintaining its delicious core.

Ingredients for Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic cookie base that provides a crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
• Cocoa Powder: Adds a rich chocolate flavor to the base layer.
• Shredded Coconut: Brings a tropical texture and subtle sweetness to the crust.
• Butter: Helps bind the base ingredients and creates a smooth, compact layer.

• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps thicken the custard layer.
• Custard Powder: Creates a classic, creamy yellow layer with traditional flavor.
• Milk: Helps blend and soften the custard ingredients.

• Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that gives the cheesecake its signature tangy and creamy texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and helps stabilize the cheesecake layer.
• Whipped Cream: Adds lightness and volume to the cheesecake mixture.
• Chocolate Chips, Butter: Create a smooth, glossy chocolate topping that adds decadence to the dessert.

How to Assemble Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake

Step 1: Create the Crumbly Base

Mix graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, and melted butter in a large bowl.

Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a springform pan.

Refrigerate to set the base.

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Custard Layer

In a separate bowl, cream together butter, powdered sugar, custard powder, and milk until smooth and silky.

Spread this custard evenly over the chilled base. Return the pan to the fridge to let the custard firm up.

Step 3: Craft the Dreamy Cheesecake Layer

Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

Gently fold in whipped cream for a cloud-like texture.

Spread this mixture over the custard layer and chill for about an hour to set.

Step 4: Drizzle the Chocolate Finale

Melt chocolate chips and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth and glossy.

Pour over the cheesecake layer and spread evenly. Refrigerate again to let the chocolate topping set completely.

Step 5: Slice and Savor

Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice into pieces, and enjoy this no-bake dessert with its perfect crumbly base, creamy layers, and rich chocolate topping.

Tips to Elevate Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake

• Chill each layer thoroughly to ensure clean, distinct layers that hold their shape perfectly.
• Use room temperature ingredients for smoother, lump-free cream cheese and custard mixtures.
• Opt for high-quality chocolate chips to elevate the chocolate topping's richness and flavor.
• Line the springform pan with parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner slicing of the cheesecake.
• Replace coconut with crushed nuts or additional graham cracker crumbs for those with coconut allergies.

Flavorful Variations of Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake

• Gluten-Free Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake: Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour for a celiac-friendly version.
• Vegan Coconut Cream Cheesecake: Swap dairy ingredients with coconut cream, cashew cheese, and plant-based butter alternatives for a dairy-free option.
• Low-Sugar Chocolate Version: Use sugar-free chocolate chips and monk fruit sweetener to reduce overall sugar content while maintaining rich flavor profile.
• Nut-Infused Variation: Add chopped almonds or pecans to the base layer for extra crunch and nutty depth in the dessert's texture and taste.

What Pairs Well with Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake

• Sweet Celebration Platter: Arrange slices on a decorative board with fresh berries, mint leaves, and a dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant dessert presentation.
• Café Companion: Serve chilled slices alongside espresso or cappuccino, creating a delightful after-dinner treat that complements rich coffee flavors.
• Midnight Snack Style: Cut into smaller bite-sized squares for easy grabbing during movie nights or casual gatherings with friends, perfect for sharing.
• Brunch Dessert Twist: Pair with whipped cream and caramel drizzle to elevate this decadent cheesecake as a show-stopping weekend brunch finale.

Proper Storage for Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake

• Store the Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness.
• Freeze the entire cheesecake or individual slices for up to 2 months for longer storage.
• Thaw frozen cheesecake overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve its creamy texture.

FAQs

• What are Nanaimo bars?

A classic Canadian dessert originating from Nanaimo, British Columbia, traditionally made with three layers: a chocolate-coconut base, a custard-flavored middle, and a chocolate ganache topping.

• Is custard powder necessary for this recipe?

Yes, custard powder is key to creating the authentic Nanaimo bar flavor. If unavailable, vanilla pudding mix can be a suitable substitute.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour to create a gluten-free version of this dessert.

Creamy No Bake Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake Recipe

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4.8 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Nanaimo bar cheesecake blends Canadian dessert magic into a creamy no-bake masterpiece. Chocolate, custard, and graham cracker layers promise delightful indulgence for passionate dessert seekers.

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Ingredients

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Base Layer:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted

Filling Layer:

• 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup custard powder
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Topping Layer:

• 4 ounces (113 grams) semi-sweet chocolate
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

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Instructions

1. Craft a robust base by combining graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, and melted butter. Press the mixture compactly into a springform pan’s bottom, ensuring an even surface. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to solidify.
2. Whip butter, powdered sugar, custard powder, and milk into a silky, uniform mixture. Use a spatula to distribute the creamy layer evenly across the chilled base. Return to refrigerator until completely set, approximately 20-30 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, blend cream cheese and powdered sugar until achieving a velvety consistency. Delicately incorporate whipped cream, folding gently to maintain airiness. Carefully spread this luxurious layer over the custard, creating a smooth surface.
4. Refrigerate the developing dessert for approximately 1 hour, allowing layers to merge and stabilize.
5. Create a glossy chocolate topping by melting chocolate chips and butter together, stirring until achieving a seamless, glistening finish. Carefully drizzle and spread the molten chocolate across the cheesecake’s surface, ensuring complete coverage.
6. Chill the entire dessert for an additional 2-3 hours or overnight to allow complete setting and flavor melding.
7. When ready to serve, carefully release from springform pan, slice into elegant portions, and indulge in this decadent no-bake confection.

Notes

• Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth, lump-free layers that blend perfectly together.
• For a gluten-free version, swap graham crackers with gluten-free cookie crumbs or ground nuts like almonds.
• Chill each layer thoroughly to maintain distinct, clean-cut layers when serving the cheesecake.
• Freeze leftovers for up to 2 weeks, wrapping tightly in plastic wrap to preserve texture and flavor.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Chilling
• Cuisine: Canadian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 166
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 31 mg
• Fat: 13 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 18 mg