What is Bird's Custard Powder?

Given my enthusiasm for Nanaimo bars, here's a question I am often asked: What is Bird's custard powder?

I understand the question, because it is one I had, too, in the beginning of my Nanaimo-bar-making journey.

The general consensus in Canada and beyond is that this stuff is a vital ingredient in the bars...but why? 

Bird's Custard Powder

Traditionally, the middle section of Nanaimo bars is made with Bird’s Custard Powder. This is a popular custard powder invented in the UK that immigrated to British Columbia in the early 1900s when there was a large wave of new immigration from Europe. This would have been well timed with the advent of iceboxes as a common household item in Canada, which would explain for the bar’s UK influence.

Instant vanilla pudding powder will do in a pinch, but do try to find Bird’s Custard Powder for a truly authentic taste. It’s not extremely difficult to find: look for it in the international aisle of your local grocery store, or online.

These may be of interest with that knowledge in mind:

• A traditional Nanaimo bar recipe.
• Breakfast Nanaimo bars
• A visit to Nanaimo, birthplace of the bar. 

Have you ever tried a Nanaimo bar?

Comments

[Delhi Police Answer Key 2014]

Nice article and you made mentioned clearly about "What is Bird Custard Powder". Thanks for sharing.

[The Ninja Baker]

I'll have to try out the British Bird's and your Nanaimo Bars =)

[Cakespy]

Thanks Ninja baker!

[kate]

do you not have instant custard helpers in the us?

[Cakespy]

Kate: NEVER heard of such a thing! I want to, though.

[Laurie In TX]

I just made some Birds custard because I have been sick and wanted something from "HOME", been in Texas for 17 years, to make me feel better. I was thankful that friends who came to visit us a few years ago, brought me a 10 year supply of the stuff! I love Nanaimo Bars, and I have shared my love for them with my American husband, family and friends. I've tried to make Nanaimo Bars sans Birds but, no bueno. It doesn't even come close.
I love your blog!!!
Laurie,
Born and raised (32 years) in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada,
A Texan for 17 years <3

[Laurie In TX]

I just made some Birds custard because I have been sick and wanted something from "HOME", been in Texas for 17 years, to make me feel better. I was thankful that friends who came to visit us a few years ago, brought me a 10 year supply of the stuff! I love Nanaimo Bars, and I have shared my love for them with my American husband, family and friends. I've tried to make Nanaimo Bars sans Birds but, no bueno. It doesn't even come close.
I love your blog!!!
Laurie,
Born and raised (32 years) in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada,
A Texan for 17 years <3