Easter Goody Bars
Easter Goody Bars are the perfect springtime treat! With a delightful pecan and oat crumble for the crust, these bars are filled with a rich creamy fudge filling. Topped with more crumble and colorful Easter m&m candy and sprinkles, they are ideal for family gatherings or festive celebrations. The combination of textures and flavors makes these bars a standout dessert that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal preparation time, making it perfect for busy bakers.
- Deliciously Decadent: The creamy fudge filling paired with crunchy toppings creates an irresistible texture contrast.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for Easter celebrations or any springtime gathering, these bars can be enjoyed year-round.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the little ones by letting them help decorate with m&m’s and sprinkles!
- Make Ahead Option: These bars can be prepared in advance, allowing for stress-free entertaining.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Easter Goody Bars, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooking spray or parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 inch baking pan: This size is perfect for achieving the right thickness in your bars.
- Large mixing bowl: Plenty of space allows you to mix ingredients without spilling.
- Saucepan: Ideal for melting together your fudge filling smoothly.
Ingredients
For the Crust and Topping
- 1½ cups quick oats
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, melted (I use salted butter)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Filling
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips OR semi-sweet
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Decoration
- 1 cup Easter pastel m&m’s
- Easter sprinkles, optional
How to Make Easter Goody Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 9×13 inch baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. You can also use tin foil lined with cooking spray for easy removal later.
Step 2: Prepare the Crumble Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the quick oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, salt, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Stir together until it resembles wet sand — this means the mixture should be crumbly but hold together when pressed.
Step 3: Form the Crust
Measure out 1½ cups of the crumble mixture and set it aside for topping later. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust.
Step 4: Make the Fudge Filling
In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir regularly until everything melts together smoothly. Once melted, remove from heat and pour this luscious chocolate mixture over your crust.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture over the fudge layer evenly. Then add your Easter m&m’s on top along with any sprinkles you desire. Gently press them into the crumble to ensure they stick during baking.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for 20 to 23 minutes. The edges should start pulling away from the pan slightly when they’re done. Let your Easter Goody Bars cool in the pan for about 30 minutes to an hour before cutting them into squares.
Enjoy these festive treats at your next celebration!
How to Serve Easter Goody Bars
Easter Goody Bars are delightful, sweet treats that can brighten up any spring gathering. Here are some creative serving ideas to enhance your dessert experience.
For a Festive Brunch
- Serve the bars alongside fresh fruit for a refreshing balance.
- Pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent touch.
As Party Favors
- Cut the bars into smaller pieces and wrap them in colorful cellophane.
- Add a tag with fun Easter messages to share the joy.
With Beverages
- Offer a selection of drinks like lemonade or iced tea to complement the sweetness.
- Consider serving coffee or hot chocolate for a comforting pairing.
At an Easter Picnic
- Pack these bars in individual servings for easy transport.
- Include napkins and plates for a charming picnic setup.
As Dessert After Dinner
- Serve warm bars straight from the oven, topped with ice cream.
- Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra treat.
How to Perfect Easter Goody Bars
To ensure your Easter Goody Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check that your baking ingredients are fresh, especially the baking powder and chocolate chips.
- Measure Accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and sugars to get the right texture in your bars.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your bars as they bake to avoid dryness; slightly underbaking adds a chewy texture.
- Let Them Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting; this helps maintain their structure and flavor.
- Customize Toppings: Feel free to mix in different candies or nuts based on your preference for added flavor and texture.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days for optimal freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Easter Goody Bars
Pairing side dishes with your Easter Goody Bars can elevate your dessert table. Here are some delicious options:
- Spring Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, strawberries, and walnuts drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the bars.
- Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs add a savory element that balances out the sugary treats nicely.
- Carrot Sticks with Dip: Crunchy carrot sticks paired with hummus or ranch make for a healthy snack option.
- Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses can offer a nice contrast to the sweet flavors of the bars.
- Fruit Kabobs: Colorful fruit skewers provide freshness and vibrancy alongside dessert.
- Mini Quiches: These savory bites are perfect for brunch menus and pair well with sweet treats like Easter Goody Bars.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easter Goody Bars can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the crust preparation: Ensure you press the crumble mixture firmly into the pan. A well-formed crust holds everything together.
- Overbaking the bars: Keep a close watch on your bars while baking. Remove them from the oven when the edges pull away from the pan to maintain a chewy texture.
- Using unsalted butter: Salted butter adds flavor, so stick with it for the best taste in your Easter Goody Bars.
- Not cooling enough before cutting: Allow your bars to sit for at least 30 minutes after baking. This step helps them set properly for clean slices.
- Ignoring ingredient measurements: Precision is key! Use measuring cups and spoons for accurate proportions to ensure consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Layer parchment paper between bars to prevent sticking.
Freezing Easter Goody Bars
- Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap before placing them in a container for easy access.
Reheating Easter Goody Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm bars for about 10 minutes until soft.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place in a non-stick skillet over low heat, warming slowly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Easter Goody Bars:
What makes Easter Goody Bars special?
Easter Goody Bars combine creamy fudge filling with a crunchy pecan oat crust, making them a delightful spring treat.
Can I use other types of chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute milk chocolate chips with semi-sweet or even dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
How do I customize my Easter Goody Bars?
You can add other candies, like mini eggs or different sprinkles, based on your preferences for extra color and flavor.
Are there any allergen concerns with these bars?
Yes, these bars contain gluten (from flour) and nuts (from pecans). Adjustments can be made using gluten-free flour and nut alternatives if needed.
How should I serve Easter Goody Bars?
These bars are perfect as a dessert at gatherings or as a sweet snack alongside coffee during springtime brunches!
Final Thoughts
Easter Goody Bars are not only simple to make but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite candies or toppings. Their delightful combination of textures and flavors makes them an irresistible treat that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try and enjoy sharing these cheerful bites!
Easter Goody Bars
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Easter Goody Bars are the ultimate springtime treat, perfect for festive gatherings and family celebrations. With a delightful pecan and oat crumble crust, these bars are generously filled with a rich, creamy fudge that melts in your mouth. Topped with more crumble, colorful Easter M&M’s, and playful sprinkles, every bite offers a satisfying crunch paired with chocolatey goodness. Easy to make and even easier to share, these bars will charm both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or looking for a sweet snack to enjoy throughout the season, Easter Goody Bars bring joy to any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1½ cups quick oats
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, melted
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup Easter pastel m&m's
- Easter sprinkles, optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan with cooking spray or parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, melted butter, and chopped pecans until crumbly.
- Reserve 1½ cups of the mixture for topping; press the remainder into the bottom of the baking pan as the crust.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt together sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter until smooth. Pour over the crust.
- Sprinkle reserved crumble on top along with Easter M&M's and optional sprinkles; gently press them in.
- Bake for 20–23 minutes until edges pull away from the pan; cool before cutting into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 23 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
