Nanaimo Bars

If you have never tasted a Nanaimo Bar, you definitely need to do so at least once in your life.  There really is no describing them in words.

Christmas morning wouldn't be the same without 'em.

Crust:

3 c. graham cracker crumbs           

1 & 1/2  c. flaked coconut

1 c. chopped pecans                  

1 c. unsalted butter

1/2 c. sugar

1/2 c. unsweetened cocoa

2 tsp. vanilla

1/2 tsp. vanilla

1/2 tsp. salt

2 eggs - beaten

     In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and pecans and set aside.  In a large sauce pan over medium heat, combine the butter, sugar, cocoa, vanilla and salt.  Whisk in beaten eggs and cook- stirring constantly until mixture coats the back of a spoon.  Remove from heat and combine with dry ingredients.  Mix well and press evenly into a 9 x 13 pan.

Filling:  

6 oz. softened cream cheese

2 c. powdered sugar

1 c. soft unsalted butter

4 T. milk

4 T. instant vanilla pudding mix

   

     In a medium bowl, beat together butter, cream cheese and dry pudding mix until light and fluffy.  Beat in powdered sugar and milk until creamy.  Spread over crumb crust and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Glaze:

8 squares (8 oz.) semisweet chocolate - chopped

2 T. butter

   
     Put chocolate and butter into a microwaveable bowl.  Microwave for 60 seconds and stir.  Continue to cook for 30 seconds at a time until melted.  Spread evenly over cream filling.  Cool for about 5 minutes in the fridge, then score while soft, into squares.  This helps in cutting the bars after they are chilled.  Refrigerate until firm.