Experience the best of Canadian dessert tradition with this ingenious Nanaimo Cheesecake that combines the beloved no-bake Nanaimo bar with rich, creamy New York-style cheesecake into one show-stopping dessert. This creative fusion takes the iconic three-layer Canadian treat – with its chocolate graham cracker base, custard buttercream middle, and glossy chocolate top – and transforms it into an elegant cheesecake that honors both dessert traditions while creating something entirely new and irresistible. Named after the charming Vancouver Island city where Nanaimo bars originated, this dessert captures all the flavors Canadians have loved for generations: the rich chocolate-coconut-walnut base, the sweet vanilla custard notes, and that signature chocolate ganache finish, but elevates them with the luxurious creaminess that only a perfectly crafted cheesecake can provide. What makes this dessert so special is how it maintains the distinct flavor profile of traditional Nanaimo bars while achieving the smooth, velvety texture of premium cheesecake, creating layers of complementary tastes and textures that tell the story of Canadian baking heritage in every bite. This recipe serves 12 people generously and creates a dessert that’s impressive enough for special occasions yet comforting enough to satisfy any Canadian’s craving for this beloved national treat in its most elegant form.
Serves: 12 people
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 6 hours or overnight
What You’ll Need
For the Nanaimo Bar Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 pounds cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons custard powder (or vanilla pudding mix)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Chocolate Ganache Top:
- 6 oz dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon corn syrup (optional, for extra shine)
Creating the Authentic Nanaimo Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F and wrap the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent leaks during the water bath baking process. This double protection ensures your cheesecake stays perfectly smooth and crack-free.
In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, chopped walnuts, and cocoa powder, stirring until evenly mixed. The combination of these ingredients creates the authentic Nanaimo bar flavor profile that makes this cheesecake so distinctively Canadian.
Pour in the melted butter, sugar, and beaten egg, stirring until the mixture holds together when pressed. The egg helps bind the crust and prevents it from crumbling, while the butter provides richness and helps create a firm foundation for the heavy cheesecake filling.
Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, using the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even, compact layer. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust feels set and looks slightly darker. Remove and let cool while you prepare the filling.
Crafting the Perfect Cheesecake Base
Ensure all your dairy ingredients are at room temperature before beginning – this is crucial for achieving the smooth, lump-free texture that defines great cheesecake. Cold ingredients don’t blend properly and can result in a grainy or dense final product.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until completely smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently to ensure even mixing and prevent lumps from forming.
Gradually add the sugar, beating until well combined and the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until incorporated after each addition. Overbeating at this stage can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks during baking.
Building the Custard-Inspired Flavor
Beat in the sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. The custard powder is the secret ingredient that gives this cheesecake its distinctive Nanaimo bar flavor – it provides that subtle vanilla-custard taste that’s essential to the authentic experience.
Add the custard powder and salt, mixing just until combined. The filling should be smooth, creamy, and pour easily. Taste the mixture and adjust the vanilla if needed – you want a pronounced but not overwhelming vanilla-custard flavor that complements rather than competes with the chocolate elements.
Assembling Your Canadian Creation
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with an offset spatula. Gently tap the pan on the counter a few times to release air bubbles that could cause cracks or an uneven surface during baking.
Place the foil-wrapped springform pan inside a large roasting pan and carefully pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This water bath, or bain-marie, ensures gentle, even cooking that prevents the cheesecake from cracking or developing a rubbery texture.
Baking to Creamy Perfection
Bake for 60-70 minutes, until the center is almost set but still has a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. The edges should be completely set, and the top should be pale gold with no browning. A properly baked cheesecake will continue to set as it cools.
Turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven for 1 hour. This prevents sudden temperature changes that can cause cracking. After an hour, remove from the oven and water bath, then cool completely at room temperature.
Creating the Signature Chocolate Top
While the cheesecake cools, prepare the ganache that gives this dessert its authentic Nanaimo bar appearance. Place the finely chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer – you’ll see small bubbles forming around the edges.
Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt. Starting from the center, whisk gently in small circles, gradually working outward until the ganache is smooth and glossy.
Whisk in the butter and corn syrup if using, which adds extra shine and helps the ganache set with a perfect glossy finish that mirrors traditional Nanaimo bar tops.
The Final Assembly
Once the cheesecake has cooled completely, pour the slightly cooled ganache over the top, using an offset spatula to spread it evenly to the edges. The ganache should be fluid enough to create a smooth surface but not so warm that it melts into the cheesecake.
Gently tap the pan to help the ganache settle evenly, then refrigerate the completed cheesecake for at least 6 hours or overnight. This extended chilling time allows all the flavors to meld and the texture to set properly.
Serving Your Canadian Masterpiece
Remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly for optimal texture and flavor. Run a thin knife around the edges before removing the springform ring to ensure clean release.
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped clean between cuts to create neat slices that showcase all the beautiful layers. Each slice should reveal the dark chocolate crust, creamy vanilla cheesecake filling, and glossy chocolate top that makes this dessert so visually striking.
Traditional Canadian Presentation
Serve slices on chilled dessert plates, perhaps with a small Canadian flag for festive occasions. The rich, indulgent nature of this dessert means smaller slices are often preferred, allowing guests to savor the complex flavors without being overwhelmed.
Some Canadian families like to serve this with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, though the dessert is perfectly complete on its own and needs no additional adornment to showcase its authentic Nanaimo bar heritage.
Celebrating Canadian Heritage
This dessert represents the evolution of Canadian cuisine, taking a beloved no-bake treat and elevating it to elegant dessert status while maintaining all the flavors that make Nanaimo bars so cherished across the country. It’s perfect for Canada Day celebrations, holiday gatherings, or any time you want to share a taste of Canadian culinary tradition.
Storage and Make-Ahead Benefits
This cheesecake actually improves with time, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert for entertaining. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, and consider making it a day or two before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop and meld.
Tips for Perfect Results
Room temperature ingredients are non-negotiable for smooth texture. Don’t skip the water bath, as it prevents cracking and ensures even cooking. Allow proper cooling and chilling time – rushing these steps will compromise both texture and flavor development.
A True Canadian Classic
This Nanaimo Cheesecake captures the spirit of Canadian hospitality and the country’s love for comfort desserts, combining familiar flavors in an elegant presentation that honors tradition while creating something new and memorable for all who taste it.
