Easter Goody Bars
Easter Goody Bars are the perfect springtime treat! With a delightful pecan and oat crumble crust, a creamy fudge filling, and colorful Easter M&M candies, these bars are ideal for any festive occasion. Whether for an Easter gathering, a spring picnic, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home, they bring joy to every bite. Their unique combination of textures and flavors makes them a standout dessert that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dessert in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The rich chocolate filling paired with the crunchy crumble creates a flavor explosion.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for Easter celebrations, parties, or just as a special dessert for family.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids will love helping to decorate with colorful M&Ms and sprinkles!
- Make Ahead Option: These bars can be made in advance and stored for later enjoyment.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Easter Goody Bars, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 baking pan: This size is perfect for even baking and allows you to cut the bars into nice portions.
- Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls helps keep your ingredients organized while mixing.
- Saucepan: A good saucepan is essential for melting the fudge filling smoothly without burning.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: These tools help with combining ingredients thoroughly and spreading mixtures evenly.
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 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 your 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.
Step 2: Make the Crust Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the quick oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, salt, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Stir together until it resembles wet sand—the mixture should be crumbly.
Step 3: Form the Crust
Measure out 1½ cups of the crumble mixture and set it aside. Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan firmly to create an even crust layer.
Step 4: Prepare the Fudge Filling
In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter. Stir constantly until everything melts together smoothly. Once melted, remove from heat and pour this chocolate filling over your prepared crust.
Step 5: Add Topping
Take the reserved crumble mixture and sprinkle it over the chocolate filling evenly. Then add the M&M’s and sprinkles on top; gently press them into the crumble.
Step 6: Bake
Place in the preheated oven to bake for 20-23 minutes. The edges should look slightly pulled away from the pan when done. Allow cooling for about 30 minutes to an hour before cutting into bars. Be careful not to overbake these treats!
How to Serve Easter Goody Bars
Easter Goody Bars are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a spring gathering or just want a sweet snack, these bars can be served in styles that enhance their appeal.
Individual Portions
- Cut the bars into small squares for easy serving at parties or gatherings.
- Place each square in a colorful cupcake liner for an attractive presentation.
Family Style
- Serve the entire tray of Easter Goody Bars on a decorative platter.
- Add a few fresh flowers or Easter-themed decorations around the platter for a festive touch.
With Ice Cream
- Pair warm Easter Goody Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert combination.
- Drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce over the top for extra sweetness.
As Party Favors
- Wrap individual bars in clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon.
- These make perfect treats for guests to take home after an Easter celebration.
With Coffee or Tea
- Offer the bars alongside coffee or tea during brunch or afternoon gatherings.
- The sweet flavors of the bars complement the warmth of your favorite hot beverages.
How to Perfect Easter Goody Bars
To ensure your Easter Goody Bars turn out perfectly, follow these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Using fresh butter and high-quality chocolate chips will enhance the flavor of your bars.
- Don’t overmix: When preparing the crumble mixture, mix just until combined to keep the texture crumbly and light.
- Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the edges while baking. They should pull away slightly from the pan without being overbaked.
- Cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool fully will help them set and make cutting easier without crumbling.
- Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add nuts or different types of candies for variation in flavor and texture.
- Store properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Easter Goody Bars
Pairing side dishes with your Easter Goody Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Spring Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, strawberries, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the bars.
- Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses that balance well with sweet desserts, such as creamy goat cheese or sharp cheddar.
- Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers provide a refreshing contrast; use seasonal fruits like strawberries and kiwi for color.
- Mini Quiches: Savory mini quiches are perfect for brunch, providing a delightful contrast to sweet treats.
- Vegetable Crudités: Crunchy veggies served with dip offer a healthy option alongside your sweets.
- Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs add a savory touch that’s always welcome at festive gatherings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easter Goody Bars can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.
- Measurements: Ensure you measure ingredients accurately. Too much flour or sugar can affect the texture and taste.
- Overmixing: Don’t overmix the crumble mixture; it should be crumbly. Mixing too much can lead to tough bars.
- Incorrect Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time. Pull them out when the edges are slightly pulled away from the pan to avoid overbaking.
- Skipping Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them hold their shape better.
- Ignoring Toppings: Don’t skip the toppings! The Easter m&m’s and sprinkles add both flavor and a festive touch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Easter Goody Bars
- Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Cut into individual bars before freezing for easy access.
Reheating Easter Goody Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes until soft.
- Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds at a time until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan on low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about making Easter Goody Bars.
What are Easter Goody Bars?
Easter Goody Bars are sweet dessert bars made with a pecan and oat crumble crust, creamy fudge filling, and topped with festive m&m’s and sprinkles.
Can I customize the toppings for Easter Goody Bars?
Absolutely! You can use different types of chocolate chips or seasonal candies based on your preference.
How do I store leftover Easter Goody Bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, or freeze them for longer storage.
What is the best way to cut Easter Goody Bars?
Let them cool completely before cutting. Use a sharp knife for clean edges.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! You can make Easter Goody Bars a day or two in advance. Just store them properly until serving.
Final Thoughts
Easter Goody Bars are an irresistible treat that brings joy to any spring celebration. With their creamy filling and crunchy topping, they’re perfect for gatherings or as a sweet snack. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or mix-ins!
Easter Goody Bars
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Description
Easter Goody Bars are a delightful springtime dessert that perfectly combines the rich flavors of a creamy fudge filling with a crunchy pecan and oat crumble crust. Topped with colorful Easter M&M candies and festive sprinkles, these bars are not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. Ideal for Easter gatherings, spring picnics, or simply as a sweet treat at home, they bring joy to every 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 chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet)
- 1 cup Easter pastel M&M's
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray or 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 and press the rest firmly into the bottom of the pan for the crust.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter until melted smooth; pour over the crust.
- Sprinkle reserved crumble mixture on top, followed by M&M's and optional sprinkles; gently press down.
- Bake for 20-23 minutes until edges pull away from the pan; cool before cutting into bars.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 23 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (approximately 40g)
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
