Go Back

Peppermint Matcha Nanaimo Bars Recipe

This is a Peppermint Matcha Nanaimo Bars Recipe without custard powder, with layers of a chocolate base and topping with buttercream filling!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Refrigeration Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16 bars
Calories 281 kcal

Equipment

  • Stand Mixer for the middle layer
  • Blender for the base layer
  • Saucepan for the topping layer
  • Heatproof bowl for melting the chocolate
  • Baking Tray 9 inch x 9 inch

Ingredients
  

For the crust

  • 2 cups pitted Medjool dates
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup walnuts

For the middle

  • ½ cup vegan butter, softened Melt it in the microwave for 30 seconds, or leave it to thaw outside of the fridge for a half hour.
  • 2¼ cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
  • 1½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 8 medium candycanes, crushed
  • 2 tbsp oat milk
  • 2 tsp matcha powder You can add more if you want a strong matcha taste. Start with 2 tsp and add 1/4 of a tsp more at a time until you achieve the desired taste.

For the topping

  • 1 cup semisweet vegan chocolate chips
  • 2 tbsp vegan butter
  • 4 medium candycanes, crushed

Instructions
 

Chocolate Coconut Crust

  • Add all crust ingredients to a blender until a dough/mixture is formed. Pat it down as a medium-thick crust into a 9" x 9" baking tray.

Buttercream Middle Layer

  • Add all ingredients for the middle layer into a stand mixer. Turn on the mixer until all ingredients are incorporated. Pour on top of the crust.

Chocolate Ganache Topping

  • Add all ingredients for the chocolate ganache layer into a heatproof bowl over medium-low heat. Put this over top of a small saucepan filled with water, so the chocolate is not in direct contact with the heat. Allow it to melt, stirring continuously.
  • Once melted, pour over the filling and sprinkle crushed candycanes over top. Place in the freezer to harden up right away. Leave it in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the middle is set.
  • Keep it frozen or the filling will start to melt! Let it thaw for a few minutes before serving after taking it out of the freezer.

Notes