Nut-Free Nanaimo Bars

Alicia Patry, Author

These are a popular Canadian treat that are absolutely delicious. They are sweet and rich and so decadent.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Ingredients
FIRST LAYER
½ cup Unsalted Butter
¼ cup Sugar
5 Tablespoons Cocoa
1 whole Egg, Beaten
1-¾ cups Graham Cracker Crumbs
1 cup Coconut
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SECOND LAYER
¼ cup Unsalted Butter
2 Tablespoons Plus 2 Teaspoons of Heavy Cream
2 Tablespoons Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix
½ teaspoons Vanilla
2 cups Icing Sugar
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THIRD LAYER
4 ounces, weight Semi Sweet Chocolate (4 Squares)
2 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter

Preparation
FIRST LAYER
Mix the first 3 ingredients in top of a double boiler. Add the egg to cook and thicken. Remove from heat. Stir in the crumbs and coconut. Press firmly into an ungreased 8×8″ pan. Place in the freezer as you make the next layer.
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SECOND LAYER
Cream all layer ingredients together well. Beat until light. Remove pan from freezer and spread mixture over the first layer.
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THIRD LAYER
Melt chocolate and butter over low heat. Cool. Once cool, but still liquid, pour over the second layer and chill in the refrigerator until set.