Heavenly No Bake Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake Recipe for Sweet Lovers

Sweet dreams come true with this decadent Nanaimo bar cheesecake that blends classic Canadian dessert magic into a no-bake wonder.

Layers of creamy goodness merge chocolate, custard, and cheesecake textures into one irresistible treat.

Chocolate lovers will swoon over the rich base and silky smooth filling.

Zero baking skills required means anyone can master this impressive dessert.

Crumbly graham and coconut create a delightful foundation that supports each delectable bite.

Cool and refreshing, this cheesecake captures the essence of indulgence without turning on the oven.

You’ll want to savor every single heavenly spoonful of this Canadian-inspired masterpiece.

FAQs

• What are Nanaimo bars?

Nanaimo bars are a classic Canadian dessert originating from Nanaimo, British Columbia, featuring three distinct layers: a chocolate-coconut graham cracker base, a creamy custard middle layer, and a chocolate topping.

• Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, this no-bake cheesecake is perfect for preparing in advance. You can make it 1-2 days before serving and keep it refrigerated until ready to enjoy.

• Do I need any special equipment to make this dessert?

You’ll need a springform pan, electric mixer, and basic kitchen tools like mixing bowls and a spatula. No baking equipment is required for this no-bake recipe.

No Bake Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake Fun

• Craft with Ease: No oven needed, making this recipe perfect for those who want delicious desserts without complex baking skills.
• Impress Guests Instantly: Stunning layered look creates a showstopping dessert that appears more complicated than it actually is.
• Customize Your Delight: Swap ingredients like using different chocolate types or adding extra toppings to match personal taste preferences.
• Cool and Refreshing Treat: Chilled dessert provides a delightful summer-friendly option that's smooth, rich, and incredibly satisfying.

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 crust.
• Shredded Coconut: Introduces a subtle tropical texture and taste.
• Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients together and creates a smooth base.

• Cream Cheese: The primary creamy component that gives the cheesecake its signature rich texture.
• Custard Powder: Provides a traditional Nanaimo bar flavor and helps thicken the filling.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the filling and helps create a smooth consistency.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps stabilize the cream cheese mixture.
• Whipped Cream: Lightens the filling and adds a soft, airy texture.

• Chocolate, Cream: Creates a smooth, glossy chocolate layer that perfectly completes the dessert.

How To Make No Bake Nanaimo Cheesecake

Step 1: Crush And Combine Base Ingredients

• cocoa powder
• shredded coconut
• melted butter

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

Pop the pan into the refrigerator to set the base solid and cool.

Step 2: Whip Up Creamy Filling

In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese until super smooth.

• custard powder
• powdered sugar
• softened butter

Beat these ingredients until they become light and fluffy. Gently fold in freshly whipped cream to create an airy, rich texture.

Spread this delightful mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Return the pan to the refrigerator to firm up.

Step 3: Drizzle Decadent Chocolate Topping

Melt high-quality chocolate with heavy cream in a double boiler or microwave. Stir until the mixture becomes glossy and silky.

Pour the chocolate over the custard layer, using a spatula to create an even, beautiful surface. Chill the entire dessert until the chocolate sets completely.

Step 4: Slice And Serve Deliciousness

Remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator. Release the springform pan sides.

Cut into clean, precise slices. Serve chilled and watch everyone’s eyes light up with pure dessert joy.

Tips For Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake

• Toast graham cracker crumbs slightly for enhanced nutty flavor and deeper color before mixing with other crust ingredients.
• Ensure cream cheese is completely softened at room temperature to achieve ultra-smooth custard layer without lumps.
• Use high-quality dark chocolate for the topping to balance sweetness and create rich, glossy chocolate layer.
• Refrigerate cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow layers to set properly and develop optimal texture.
• Substitute coconut with ground almonds for nut-based variation or use gluten-free graham crackers to make recipe gluten-free friendly.

Different Versions Of Nanaimo Cheesecake

• Gluten-Free Option: Replace graham crackers with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour. Use certified gluten-free cocoa and check custard powder ingredients.
• Vegan Adaptation: Swap cream cheese for cashew-based cream cheese. Use coconut cream instead of dairy cream. Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.
• Tropical Remix: Add crushed pineapple to the custard layer. Substitute coconut flakes in the crust with macadamia nut pieces. Top with toasted coconut flakes.
• Low-Carb Version: Use almond flour and crushed nuts for the crust. Replace sugar with erythritol or stevia. Choose sugar-free chocolate for the topping.

What Goes Well With Nanaimo Cheesecake

• Sweet Celebration Platter: Arrange slices on a decorative board with fresh berries and mint leaves, creating an elegant dessert presentation that highlights the cheesecake's rich chocolate layer.
• Cafe-Style Indulgence: Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted coconut, adding texture and complementing the dessert's classic Nanaimo bar flavors.
• Dessert Cocktail Pairing: Accompany the cheesecake with a small glass of coffee liqueur or chocolate martini, enhancing the dessert's decadent chocolate and creamy notes for a sophisticated adult treat.
• Gifting Delight: Package individual slices in clear gift boxes with a ribbon, perfect for bringing to dinner parties or sharing as a thoughtful homemade dessert gift.

Keeping Nanaimo Cheesecake Fresh

• Store leftover Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake in an airtight container to preserve its delicate texture and prevent absorption of other refrigerator odors.
• Refrigerate the cheesecake for up to 5 days, keeping it covered with plastic wrap or within a sealed container to maintain freshness.
• Freeze individual slices or the entire cheesecake for long-term storage, wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Thaw frozen cheesecake in the refrigerator overnight, allowing it to slowly return to its original creamy consistency without compromising texture.

Perfect No Bake Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake Recipe

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4.8 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Nanaimo bar cheesecake blends Canadian dessert traditions into a creamy no-bake masterpiece. Chocolate, custard, and graham cracker layers create a luxurious treat you’ll savor with pure delight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

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Instructions

1. Craft a rich base by combining graham cracker crumbs with cocoa, coconut, and melted butter, pressing firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to set the foundation.
2. Create a luxurious cream cheese filling by whipping together cream cheese, softened butter, custard powder, and powdered sugar until silky smooth. Gently fold in whipped cream to maintain airy texture.
3. Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the chilled crust, ensuring an even layer. Return to refrigerator for 30 minutes to stabilize.
4. Prepare the chocolate topping by gently melting chocolate with cream until glossy and perfectly blended. Allow mixture to cool slightly before pouring over the custard layer.
5. Smooth the chocolate layer with a spatula, creating an elegant finish. Refrigerate for minimum 2 hours or overnight to allow complete setting.
6. When ready to serve, release springform pan and slice into clean, precise portions. Garnish with additional coconut shavings or chocolate shards for extra visual appeal.
7. Serve chilled, enjoying the decadent layers of chocolate, creamy filling, and crisp coconut crust in every delightful bite.

Notes

• Customize the crust by swapping graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for those with dietary restrictions.
• Enhance the coconut flavor by toasting the shredded coconut before mixing into the crust, adding a deeper, nuttier dimension to the base.
• Use high-quality chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for a richer, more intense chocolate topping that elevates the entire dessert.
• Experiment with flavor variations by adding a splash of liqueur to the custard layer or incorporating different extracts like vanilla or almond to personalize the cheesecake.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Chilling
• Cuisine: Canadian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 250 kcal
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 90 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg