Description
Creamy Nanaimo bar cheesecake blends Canadian dessert magic with classic cheesecake charm. Chocolate, custard, and graham cracker layers create a no-bake masterpiece you’ll crave with every delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups graham crackers (crushed)
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
Instructions
- Craft a robust base by combining graham cracker crumbs with cocoa, coconut, melted butter, and sugar. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to set.
- In a large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese until velvety, incorporating custard powder and powdered sugar. Ensure the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps.
- Separately whip heavy cream until it forms stiff, glossy peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, maintaining the light, airy texture.
- Carefully spread the creamy filling over the chilled base, using a spatula to create a uniform surface. Return to the refrigerator for 30 minutes to partially set.
- For the ganache topping, gently melt dark chocolate with heavy cream in a double boiler, stirring until silky and completely integrated. Allow to cool for 5-7 minutes to slightly thicken.
- Pour the chocolate ganache over the chilled cheesecake, tilting the pan to ensure even coverage. Use a clean spatula to smooth the top if needed.
- Refrigerate the assembled dessert for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow complete setting and flavor melding. Remove from springform pan before serving.
Notes
- Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or oat cookies to make the dessert celiac-friendly.
- Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version that maintains the rich, creamy texture.
- Reduce sugar content by substituting powdered sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a lower-calorie treat.
- Ensure cream cheese and ingredients are at room temperature to create a smoother, lump-free cheesecake filling.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: Canadian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg