Easter Goody Bars
Easter Goody Bars are the perfect springtime treat! These delightful bars feature a crunchy pecan and oat crumble crust, filled with a rich, creamy fudge center, and topped off with more crumble along with colorful Easter m&m candy and sprinkles. Ideal for gatherings, celebrations, or simply to enjoy at home, these bars bring the festive spirit of Easter into every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars come together in no time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Their appealing look and delicious taste make them a hit at any gathering.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize with your favorite candies or sprinkles to match any occasion.
- Deliciously Rich Flavor: The combination of chocolate, butter, and pecans delivers an irresistible taste sensation.
- Perfect for Spring Celebrations: These bars embody the colors and flavors of Easter, making them a seasonal favorite.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Easter Goody Bars perfectly, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment simplifies the baking process and ensures great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cooking spray or parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 baking pan: The ideal size for even baking and easy slicing of your goody bars.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
- Saucepan: Perfect for melting ingredients together smoothly for the filling.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps mix everything thoroughly while being gentle on non-stick surfaces.
Ingredients
Easter Goody Bars are crafted from a delightful blend of wholesome ingredients that contribute to their unique flavor.
For the Crust
- 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
For Topping
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup Easter pastel m&m’s
- Easter sprinkles, optional
How to Make Easter Goody Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Heat your oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a 9×13 baking pan by spraying it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. You can also line it with tin foil and spray the foil for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Crumble Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the quick oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, salt, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand and is crumbly.
Step 3: Form the Crust
Measure out 1½ cups of the crumble mixture and set it aside. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan to create an even crust layer.
Step 4: Prepare the Fudge Filling
In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir continuously until everything is melted together smoothly. Once combined, remove from heat and pour this chocolate mixture over your crust.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture over the melted chocolate filling. Gently press in the Easter m&m’s and any optional sprinkles to ensure they stick.
Step 6: Bake
Place in your preheated oven and bake for about 20-23 minutes. The edges should pull slightly away from the pan when done. Allow cooling for about 30 minutes to an hour before slicing into bars. Remember not to overbake; they will firm up as they cool!
How to Serve Easter Goody Bars
Easter Goody Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a spring gathering or simply indulging at home, these bars can brighten up any occasion.
Festive Dessert Platter
- Arrange Easter Goody Bars on a colorful platter with seasonal fruits and other Easter-themed treats for an eye-catching dessert display.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Pair a piece of the bar with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a deliciously creamy dessert experience.
Coffee Companion
- Serve Easter Goody Bars alongside a cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect afternoon snack to enjoy with friends.
Picnic Treats
- Pack these bars for a spring picnic, as they are easy to transport and will satisfy your sweet tooth outdoors.
Kids’ Dessert Table
- Place them on a dessert table during an Easter egg hunt, where kids will love the combination of chocolate and colorful m&m’s.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each bar for an extra touch of sweetness and creaminess.
How to Perfect Easter Goody Bars
To ensure your Easter Goody Bars turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Ensure that your butter and chocolate chips are fresh for optimal flavor.
- Don’t Overmix – When combining ingredients, avoid overmixing to maintain the crumbly texture of the crust.
- Watch the Bake Time – Keep an eye on the baking time; removing the bars when they look slightly underbaked will help them firm up as they cool.
- Let Cool Completely – Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them to achieve clean edges and prevent crumbling.
- Experiment with Mix-ins – Feel free to add different types of candies or nuts for unique variations that suit your taste.
- Store Properly – Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for longer freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Easter Goody Bars
Easter Goody Bars make a great addition to your dessert lineup but pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some suggestions to complement your treat:
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, and oranges adds freshness and balance.
- Carrot Sticks with Hummus – Crunchy carrot sticks served with hummus provide a healthy contrast to the sweetness of the bars.
- Mini Quiches – Savory mini quiches can round out your spread nicely, offering protein alongside sweet treats.
- Cheese Platter – A variety of cheeses paired with crackers can enhance the overall flavor profile of your dessert table.
- Spring Salad – A light salad with greens, nuts, and vinaigrette can provide a refreshing element against rich desserts.
- Deviled Eggs – Classic deviled eggs offer savory satisfaction that complements sweet items well.
- Pasta Salad – A cold pasta salad loaded with vegetables is easy to prepare and provides heartiness without being overwhelming.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – These elegant bites pair perfectly with Easter Goody Bars, enhancing the chocolate theme.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easter Goody Bars, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the Cooling Time: Many people cut into the bars too soon. Allow them to cool completely for the best texture and flavor.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using incorrect measurements can lead to a different texture. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Overmixing the Crumble Mixture: Mixing too much can make the crust tough. Stir until just combined for a light, crumbly base.
- Using the Wrong Pan Size: Stick to a 9×13 pan for even baking. A different size can affect cooking time and texture.
- Ignoring Oven Temperature: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature, preventing overbaking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Easter Goody Bars in an airtight container.
- They will last up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Easter Goody Bars
- Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months.
Reheating Easter Goody Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C). Place bars on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 15-20 seconds per bar. Be careful not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, warming each bar for a few minutes until soft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Easter Goody Bars are a delightful treat with some common questions from bakers.
What are Easter Goody Bars?
Easter Goody Bars are layered dessert bars featuring a pecan and oat crust, creamy fudge filling, and topped with colorful M&M’s and sprinkles.
Can I customize my Easter Goody Bars?
Absolutely! You can swap chocolate chips for white chocolate or add nuts of your choice for extra crunch.
How do I store leftover Easter Goody Bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.
What should I do if my bars are too crumbly?
If your bars crumble when cutting, they may not have cooled long enough or were overbaked. Ensure proper cooling time next time.
Can I make Easter Goody Bars ahead of time?
Yes! These bars can be made a day in advance, making them perfect for spring gatherings and holidays.
Final Thoughts
Easter Goody Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite candies or nuts. Try this recipe for your next spring celebration; it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Easter Goody Bars
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 16 bars 1x
Description
Easter Goody Bars are the ultimate springtime indulgence! These delightful dessert bars feature a crunchy pecan and oat crumble crust, a luscious fudge filling, and a colorful topping of Easter M&M’s and sprinkles. Perfect for family gatherings, festive celebrations, or simply treating yourself at home, these bars capture the joyful essence of Easter in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups quick oats
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) melted salted butter
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips or semi-sweet
- 2 tablespoons butter (for topping)
- 1 cup Easter pastel M&M's
- Optional: Easter sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray or parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, melted butter, and chopped pecans until crumbly.
- Set aside 1½ cups of the mixture; press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt together sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and additional butter until smooth. Pour over the crust.
- Top with reserved crumble mixture and sprinkle with M&M's and optional sprinkles before baking for 20-23 minutes.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing into bars.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 23 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (approximately 60g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
