Easter Goody Bars
Easter Goody Bars are a delightful springtime dessert that combines the rich flavors of pecans and oats with a creamy fudge filling. Perfect for Easter celebrations, these bars stand out with their colorful M&M toppings and festive sprinkles. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these bars will surely impress everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With only a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious bars in no time.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate, pecans, and oats creates a unique taste that is both rich and satisfying.
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut into 36 bars, they are easy to share at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite candies or adjust the sprinkles based on your celebration theme.
- Family-Friendly: Kids will love their vibrant colors and sweet taste, making them ideal for family events.
Tools and Preparation
To make Easter Goody Bars effortlessly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your baking process is smooth and successful.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 baking pan: This specific size is perfect for achieving the right thickness for your bars.
- Mixing bowls: Using various sizes helps in easily combining ingredients without making a mess.
- Saucepan: A good saucepan allows for even melting of ingredients like chocolate and butter.
- Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down mixing bowls to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create your delicious Easter Goody Bars:
For the Crust and Filling
- 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 Chocolate Layer
- 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
- Easter sprinkles, optional
How to Make Easter Goody Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a 9×13 baking pan by spraying it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. You can also use tin foil lined with cooking spray for easier removal later.
Step 2: Prepare the Crumble Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the quick oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, salt, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Stir together until the mixture resembles wet sand and becomes crumbly.
Step 3: Form the Crust
Measure out 1½ cups of the crumble mixture and set it aside. Press the remaining crumble mixture into the prepared baking pan firmly to create an even crust.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Filling
In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir continuously until everything melts together smoothly. Once melted, remove from heat and pour this chocolate mixture over the crust.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture over the melted chocolate layer. Then add the Easter M&M’s and any sprinkles you wish to use. Gently press them into the crumble so they adhere well.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-23 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re done when the edges start pulling away from the pan. Allow them to cool for about 30 minutes to an hour before cutting into bars. Be cautious not to overbake; they will continue cooking slightly as they cool.
Now you’ve made delightful Easter Goody Bars! Enjoy sharing these treats during your spring celebrations!
How to Serve Easter Goody Bars
Easter Goody Bars are not just a sweet treat; they can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some fun serving suggestions that will elevate your dessert experience.
For a Festive Brunch
- Serve warm: These bars are delicious when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
- Pair with coffee: Offer freshly brewed coffee or a flavored latte to complement the sweetness of the bars.
As a Dessert Platter
- Create a dessert board: Arrange cut pieces of Easter Goody Bars alongside other treats like cookies and brownies for a colorful dessert spread.
- Add fresh fruit: Include slices of strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.
Perfect for Easter Gatherings
- Individual servings: Cut the bars into smaller pieces and place them in cupcake liners for easy individual servings.
- Garnish with mint: A sprig of fresh mint on top can add a pop of color and freshness.
Kid-Friendly Options
- Fun toppings: Let kids decorate their own bars with additional sprinkles, chocolate chips, or fruit.
- Serve with milk: Always a classic, pairing these bars with cold milk makes it a hit among children.
How to Perfect Easter Goody Bars
To ensure your Easter Goody Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Allow your butter and eggs to reach room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t overmix: When combining the crumble mixture, mix just until crumbly to maintain the right texture.
- Check doneness carefully: The edges should be lightly golden and pull away from the pan. Remember they will continue cooking as they cool.
- Chill before cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares for cleaner edges.
- Experiment with flavors: Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor kick in your filling.
Best Side Dishes for Easter Goody Bars
Serving side dishes alongside Easter Goody Bars can enhance your dessert table. Here are some great ideas that pair well.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and oranges provides a refreshing balance to rich desserts.
- Spring Vegetable Platter: Crisp veggies like carrots and cucumbers with dip add crunch and healthiness to your spread.
- Cheese Board: Offer assorted cheeses that complement the sweetness of the bars, such as brie or sharp cheddar.
- Mini Quiches: These savory bites can be made with various fillings and offer guests something hearty alongside sweet treats.
- Deviled Eggs: A classic Easter dish, these provide protein and can be flavored in various ways to suit all tastes.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These provide an elegant touch while still being easy to prepare and enjoy.
- Mimosas: For adult gatherings, mimosas made with sparkling wine and orange juice make an excellent drink choice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easter Goody Bars, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using the wrong pan size: Ensure you use a 9×13 baking pan for the right thickness. A smaller pan can cause overflows and uneven cooking.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring tools for dry and wet ingredients. This ensures the bars hold together well and taste great.
- Overmixing the crumble: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of a light, crumbly crust.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allow your bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly and makes them easier to slice.
- Not adjusting baking time: Keep an eye on your bars as they bake. Every oven is different, so check for doneness 1-2 minutes early to avoid overbaking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Layer parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Easter Goody Bars
- Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
- Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating Easter Goody Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individually for 15-20 seconds on medium power for a warm treat.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about Easter Goody Bars, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:
How do I make my Easter Goody Bars chewy?
To achieve chewy bars, make sure not to overbake them. Remove them from the oven when the edges are slightly golden.
Can I customize the toppings on Easter Goody Bars?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, different types of chocolate chips, or other festive candies based on your preference.
What type of chocolate works best in Easter Goody Bars?
Both milk chocolate chips and semi-sweet chocolate work beautifully. Choose according to your sweetness preference!
Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure it has a similar consistency.
What’s the best way to cut Easter Goody Bars?
Use a sharp knife and clean cuts without dragging through the bars. Wipe the knife between cuts for neat pieces.
Final Thoughts
Easter Goody Bars are not only delightful but also versatile! You can easily customize them with various toppings or mix-ins. Whether you’re hosting a spring gathering or simply indulging at home, these bars bring joy and sweetness. Give them a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Easter Goody Bars
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 36 servings 1x
Description
Easter Goody Bars are the perfect spring treat, combining the rich flavors of pecans and oats with a creamy fudge filling. Topped with colorful M&M’s and festive sprinkles, these bars are not only visually appealing but also a delight for the taste buds. Ideal for Easter gatherings or as an indulgent snack, they’re easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply enjoying a sweet moment at home, these bars will impress everyone.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups quick oats
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup Easter pastel M&M's
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix quick oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, melted butter, and chopped pecans until crumbly.
- Set aside 1½ cups of the mixture for topping and press the remaining mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Pour the chocolate filling over the crust and sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture on top. Add M&M's and optional sprinkles, pressing them down gently.
- Bake for 20-23 minutes or until edges are golden. Cool before cutting into bars.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 23 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
