ou could easily use digestive biscuits instead of graham crumbs if you live outside of North America. For the coconut – I recommend using finely shredded coconut because it makes the bars easier to cut. You could also use pecans or almonds instead of the walnuts. I prefer walnuts because it makes it easier to slice the bars (and because I think they’re more delicious).
CUSTARD BUTTERCREAM MIDDLE
The middle layer is essentially a very thick vanilla buttercream that’s flavored with custard powder. Custard powder adds a deliciously creamy flavor and gives the middle its distinctive light yellow color. If you can’t find custard powder, you can make Nanaimo bars without custard powder. Simply use vanilla pudding mix instead (you don’t need to make the pudding – just add in the powder).
You’ll cream together the butter, custard powder, and cream until fluffy. Then mix in the powdered sugar a little at a time. You want the middle to be thicker than normal frosting. Then spread the layer over top of the base, and place the bars in the fridge to firm up