Easter Goody Bars
Easter Goody Bars are the perfect springtime treat! These delightful bars combine a crunchy pecan and oat crumble crust with a rich fudge filling. Topped with even more crumble and colorful Easter m&m candies, they are ideal for gatherings, celebrations, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home. Their unique layers of texture and flavor make them a standout dessert that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Make: With just a few steps, you can whip up these bars quickly, making them perfect for last-minute occasions.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of chocolate and pecans creates a decadent taste that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Versatile Treat: Whether for Easter festivities or casual family meals, these bars fit perfectly in any occasion.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids will love helping to decorate with colorful m&m’s and sprinkles, making it a fun family activity.
- Freezable Delight: You can easily freeze leftovers for later enjoyment, ensuring you always have a tasty treat on hand.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather all the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 baking pan: The perfect size for these bars ensures even cooking and easy cutting after baking.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to mix dry ingredients separately from wet ones for optimal results.
- Saucepan: Used for melting the fudge filling; choose one with a heavy bottom to prevent burning.
Ingredients
Easter Goody Bars are the perfect springtime treat! A pecan and oat crumble mixture for the crust, filled with a creamy fudge filling, topped with more crumble and Easter m&m candy and sprinkles.
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
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Topping
- 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 your 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. If using tin foil, be sure to spray it as well.
Step 2: Mix the Crust Ingredients
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: Prepare the Crust
Measure out 1½ cups of the crumble mixture and set it aside. Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking pan firmly to form an even crust layer.
Step 4: Make the Fudge Filling
In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter. Stir continuously until everything is melted together smoothly. Once combined, remove from heat and pour this creamy filling over your crust.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture evenly over the fudge filling. Then add in the m&m’s and optional sprinkles on top. Gently press them into the crumble layer.
Step 6: Bake Your Bars
Place your prepared pan in the oven and bake for 20-23 minutes. Keep an eye on them; edges should slightly pull away from the pan when done. Let cool for about 30 minutes to an hour before cutting into bars. Be cautious not to overbake!
Enjoy your delicious Easter Goody Bars!
How to Serve Easter Goody Bars
Easter Goody Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply indulging at home, here are some creative serving suggestions.
Pair with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances the sweetness of the bars.
- Chocolate Ice Cream: For chocolate lovers, this combo enhances the fudge filling.
Add Fresh Fruit
- Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a refreshing note that complements the sweet bars.
- Berries Medley: A mix of blueberries and raspberries provides a burst of flavor and color.
Drizzle with Sauce
- Chocolate Syrup: A rich drizzle on top adds extra indulgence.
- Caramel Sauce: The sweetness of caramel enhances the overall flavor profile.
Serve with Coffee or Tea
- Brewed Coffee: A warm cup of coffee pairs perfectly, cutting through the sweetness.
- Herbal Tea: Light herbal teas can provide a nice contrast to the rich bars.
Create an Easter Dessert Platter
- Mix and Match: Arrange your Easter Goody Bars alongside other festive treats for a colorful display.
- Include Variety: Add cookies, cupcakes, or even fruit tarts for guests to enjoy.
How to Perfect Easter Goody Bars
To achieve the best Easter Goody Bars, keep these helpful tips in mind.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh butter and good-quality chocolate chips for better flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to maintain the desired crumbly texture.
- Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bars; they should be slightly golden but not overbaked.
- Cool Completely Before Cutting: Let them cool fully to ensure clean cuts and firm bars.
- Store Properly: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add nuts or different candies for a unique twist.
Best Side Dishes for Easter Goody Bars
When serving Easter Goody Bars, consider pairing them with these delightful sides. They complement your dessert while enhancing your overall spread.
- Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness to your dessert table.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide savory balance against the sweetness of the bars.
- Mini Quiches: These bite-sized treats make for a hearty addition to your Easter spread.
- Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs are a traditional favorite that pairs well with sweet desserts.
- Spring Vegetable Salad: Crisp greens dressed lightly will offer freshness alongside your bars.
- Carrot Sticks with Dip: Healthy snacks add crunch and color while keeping things light.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easter Goody Bars, it’s easy to overlook key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking.
- Overmixing the Crumble: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a tough texture instead of a light crumble.
- Not Cooling Properly: Allow the bars to cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting. This helps them set properly and makes slicing easier.
- Skipping the Parchment Paper: Lining the pan makes removal simpler. If you skip this step, you may end up with broken bars.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter is melted and not cold. Cold ingredients can affect how well the mixture binds together.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to one week.
Freezing Easter Goody Bars
- Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze for up to three months for best quality.
Reheating Easter Goody Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes until soft.
- Microwave: Heat a single bar on high for 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up.
- Stovetop: Place in a non-stick skillet over low heat for several minutes, flipping occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Easter Goody Bars that might help you out.
What are Easter Goody Bars?
Easter Goody Bars are delicious treats made with a pecan and oat crumble crust, creamy fudge filling, and topped with festive candies.
Can I customize the toppings on my Easter Goody Bars?
Absolutely! You can use different types of candy or sprinkles based on your preferences or what’s available.
How should I cut my Easter Goody Bars?
Use a sharp knife and let them cool completely before cutting. This ensures clean edges and prevents crumbling.
Can I make Easter Goody Bars without nuts?
Yes! Simply omit the pecans from the recipe, or substitute them with another ingredient like shredded coconut if desired.
How long do Easter Goody Bars last?
When stored properly, they will last about one week in the fridge or up to three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
Easter Goody Bars are a delightful spring treat that combines textures and flavors perfectly. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various toppings, making them ideal for any celebration. Whether you’re hosting an event or treating yourself, these bars are sure to bring joy!
Easter Goody Bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 23 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Easter Goody Bars are the ultimate springtime treat, perfect for any celebration or family gathering. These delicious bars feature a crunchy pecan and oat crumble crust topped with a rich fudge filling and colorful Easter M&M candies. The combination of textures and flavors makes them an irresistible dessert that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a sweet indulgence at home, these bars are quick to prepare, making them ideal for last-minute occasions. Plus, they can be easily frozen for future enjoyment!
Ingredients
- 1½ cups quick oats
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, melted
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips OR semi-sweet
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup Easter pastel m&m's
- Easter sprinkles, optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray or parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine quick oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, melted butter, and chopped pecans; mix until crumbly.
- Set aside 1½ cups of the mixture; press the remainder firmly into the bottom of the baking pan to create an even 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 over the fudge filling and top with M&M's and optional sprinkles.
- Bake for 20-23 minutes until edges pull away from the pan. Cool for 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (50g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
