The Ultimate No Bake Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake Recipe for Sweet Lovers

Sweet layers of creamy decadence meet a classic Canadian nanaimo bar cheesecake that melts in your mouth.

This no-bake dessert combines rich chocolate, custard-like filling, and a nutty graham cracker base into an irresistible treat.

Each spoonful promises pure indulgence without turning on the oven.

The smooth, velvety texture blends perfectly with crumbly chocolate and buttery graham crust.

Chilled to perfection, this cheesecake brings together the best elements of a traditional nanaimo bar and a classic creamy cheesecake.

Summer gatherings or intimate dinner parties will never be the same with this showstopping dessert.

Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake – No-Bake Goodness

• Savor No-Effort Delight: This recipe eliminates baking, making it perfect for novice cooks and those wanting a quick dessert without complex techniques.
• Indulge in Layered Luxury: The three-tier structure of crust, cheesecake, and ganache creates a decadent treat that looks impressive yet requires minimal cooking skills.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like coconut or experiment with different chocolate types to personalize the dessert while maintaining its delicious core recipe.
• Crowd-Pleasing Potential: Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, and celebrations where you want a rich, chocolatey dessert that appeals to multiple taste preferences.

Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake Ingredient List

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that provides a rich, sweet foundation for the cheesecake.
• Shredded Coconut: Adds a delightful tropical texture and subtle sweetness to the crust.
• Cocoa Powder: Brings a deep chocolate flavor and dark color to the crust.
• Melted Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients together and creates a rich, smooth texture.
• Sugar: Enhances the overall sweetness of the crust.

• Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that creates the smooth, creamy cheesecake texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a silky smooth filling.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps stabilize the cheesecake layer.
• Vanilla Extract: Introduces a warm, classic flavor to the cheesecake.

• Heavy Cream, Chocolate Chips: A classic combination that creates a luxurious, glossy chocolate topping for the cheesecake.

Easy Steps for Nanaimo Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Create the Crumbly Base

Grab a mixing bowl and toss in graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, melted butter, and sugar.

Mix everything until the ingredients are well combined and look like wet sand.

Press this delightful mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan, creating an even, compact layer.

Pop the pan into the refrigerator and let it chill for 15 minutes to set the base.

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Cheesecake Layer

Using an electric mixer, blend cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes silky smooth and luxuriously creamy.

Once the base has chilled, carefully spread this dreamy filling evenly across the crust.

Return the pan to the refrigerator and let it cool for 1 hour to firm up.

Step 3: Craft the Decadent Chocolate Topping

Warm the heavy cream until it’s just heated (avoid boiling).

Pour the warm cream over chocolate chips and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Gently stir until the mixture transforms into a glossy, smooth ganache.

Carefully pour this rich chocolate layer over the chilled cheesecake, making sure to spread it evenly.

Place the pan back in the refrigerator and let it set for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight.

Step 4: Slice and Savor

When ready to serve, release the cheesecake from the springform pan.

Slice into beautiful wedges and enjoy the cool, creamy, chocolatey goodness of this no-bake dessert.

Pro Tips for Nanaimo Bar Success

• Toast coconut before mixing for a deeper, nuttier flavor that adds crunch and complexity to the base.
• Avoid overmixing cheesecake layer to maintain a smooth, creamy consistency without air bubbles.
• Use high-quality chocolate chips for a richer, more luxurious top layer that melts smoothly.
• Wipe knife with hot water between cuts for clean, precise slices that showcase the beautiful layers.
• This dessert tastes even better after 24 hours, allowing flavors to meld and set perfectly.

Nanaimo Cheesecake Variations to Try

• Gluten-Free Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake: Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour. Use certified gluten-free chocolate chips for the ganache.
• Vegan Coconut Cheesecake Alternative: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Replace butter with coconut oil in all layers.
• Low-Carb Chocolate Version: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed nuts like almonds or pecans. Use sugar-free chocolate chips and a low-carb sweetener like erythritol instead of powdered sugar.
• Nut-Free Tropical Adaptation: Replace coconut with toasted oats in the crust. Use seed-based butter like sunflower seed butter for those with nut allergies.

Ways to Serve Nanaimo Cheesecake Bars

• Decadent Dessert Pairings: Complement this rich cheesecake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a creamy contrast.
• Beverage Companions: Serve alongside a steaming cup of dark roast coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance the chocolate intensity.
• Garnish Galore: Sprinkle shredded coconut, chocolate shavings, or crushed graham crackers on top for extra texture and visual appeal.
• Seasonal Twist: Garnish with fresh berries during summer months or add a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent touch.

Storage for No-Bake Cheesecake Bars

• Store the Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Wrap individual slices or the whole cheesecake in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Never leave the cheesecake at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth. Always keep chilled.
• Best enjoyed cold. If desired, let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

FAQs

• What are Nanaimo bars?

A traditional Canadian dessert originating from Nanaimo, British Columbia, typically featuring a chocolate, custard, and coconut crumb base.

• Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour to create a similar texture and taste.

• How can I prevent the ganache from cracking?

Ensure the ganache is at room temperature when pouring and spread it gently using an offset spatula to create a smooth, even layer.

• Is it necessary to use a springform pan?

While a springform pan makes removing the cheesecake easier, you can use a regular pan lined with parchment paper for similar results.

No Bake Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake Recipe

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4.7 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 9 1x

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Description

Rich Canadian Nanaimo bar cheesecake blends creamy indulgence with classic dessert nostalgia. Layers of chocolate, custard, and smooth cheesecake create a no-bake masterpiece you’ll savor with pure delight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Base and Binding Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Flavor Enhancers:

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Craft a robust base by mixing graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, melted butter, and sugar into a cohesive texture. Firmly press the crumbly mixture across the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan, ensuring an even, compact layer. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to set the foundation.
2. Whip cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until achieving a silky, uniform consistency. Gently spread the creamy mixture over the chilled crust, creating a smooth, even layer. Return to refrigerator and allow to set for 1 hour.
3. Warm heavy cream until steaming but not boiling. Pour the heated cream over chocolate chips and allow to rest for 5 minutes. Stir methodically until the mixture transforms into a glossy, uniform ganache. Carefully drizzle and spread the ganache across the cheesecake surface, ensuring complete and even coverage.
4. Refrigerate the assembled dessert for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and texture to firm. When ready to serve, carefully release from springform pan, slice into elegant portions, and present chilled.

Notes

• Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for a celiac-friendly version.
• Adjust sweetness by reducing powdered sugar or using natural sweeteners like stevia for a lower-calorie dessert.
• Enhance coconut flavor by toasting shredded coconut before mixing into the crust for a deeper, nuttier taste.
• Create elegant garnish by sprinkling extra toasted coconut or chocolate shavings on top before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 9
• Calories: 381 kcal
• Sugar: 26 g
• Sodium: 98 mg
• Fat: 29 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 31 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg