Easter Goody Bars

Easter Goody Bars are a delightful springtime treat that brings joy to any gathering. These bars feature a crunchy pecan and oat crumble crust, complemented by a rich, creamy fudge filling. Topped with more crumble and festive Easter M&M candies, they are perfect for Easter celebrations or any occasion that calls for a sweet indulgence. Their unique combination of textures and flavors makes them a favorite for kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars are quick to prepare.
• Deliciously Decadent: The creamy fudge filling paired with the crunchy topping creates a satisfying treat.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for Easter, spring parties, or just because! They fit in any dessert spread.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids love helping out in the kitchen, especially when it involves M&M’s and sprinkles!
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be made in advance, making them easy to serve at gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start creating your Easter Goody Bars, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Cooking spray or parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 baking pan: This size is essential for achieving the perfect thickness of your bars.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to mix ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Saucepan: Ideal for melting chocolate and mixing the fudge filling smoothly.

Ingredients

Easter Goody Bars are made with the following ingredients:

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 Fudge 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

Heat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. An alternative is to line it with tin foil and spray that as well.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust Mixture

In a large bowl combine:
1½ cups quick oats
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup brown sugar
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup melted butter
1 cup chopped pecans

Stir together until the mixture resembles wet sand and is crumbly.

Step 3: Form the Crust

Measure out 1½ cups of the crumble mixture and set aside. Press the remaining mixture into the prepared baking pan firmly to create an even crust.

Step 4: Make the Fudge Filling

In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine:
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup chocolate chips
2 tablespoons butter

Stir until melted and combined. Remove from heat and pour this chocolate mixture over the crust in the baking pan.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Press the reserved crumble mixture over the chocolate layer. Sprinkle on:
1 cup Easter pastel M&M’s
Gently press them into the crumble.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 20–23 minutes. The edges should look slightly pulled away from the pan. Let cool for about 30 minutes to an hour before cutting into bars. Be cautious not to overbake; they will continue cooking slightly while cooling.

Enjoy your delicious Easter Goody Bars!

How to Serve Easter Goody Bars

Easter Goody Bars are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a fantastic addition to any spring gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.

For a Festive Brunch

• Cut into Small Squares: Serve smaller squares for easy snacking during brunch.
• Add Fresh Fruit: Pair with strawberries or blueberries for a fresh contrast.

With Ice Cream

• Serve Warm with Vanilla Ice Cream: Heat the bars slightly and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert combo.
• Drizzle Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of chocolate sauce over the ice cream adds an extra touch of sweetness.

At a Picnic

• Pack in Individual Wrappers: Wrap each bar in parchment paper for easy transport and serving.
• Include Napkins: Provide napkins to keep things tidy while enjoying these treats outdoors.

As Party Favors

• Create Gift Bags: Place a few bars in small bags tied with a ribbon as party favors.
• Include a Recipe Card: Attach a card with the recipe for guests to try at home.

On a Dessert Table

• Display on a Tiered Stand: Arrange the bars on a multi-tiered stand for an attractive presentation.
• Mix with Other Treats: Combine with cookies or cupcakes for variety.

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How to Perfect Easter Goody Bars

To achieve the ultimate texture and flavor in your Easter Goody Bars, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the mixture blend more evenly, resulting in better texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Crust: Mixing just until combined keeps the crust crumbly and flaky.
• Let Cool Completely Before Cutting: Allowing the bars to cool ensures they hold their shape when you cut them.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add nuts or different candies based on your personal preference.
• Store Properly: Keep 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 springtime dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Fresh Salad: A light mixed greens salad adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the bars.
2. Honey Glazed Carrots: These sweet carrots provide a wonderful contrast and are easy to prepare.
3. Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs are always a hit and complement any festive meal well.
4. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus brings seasonal flavors that enhance the meal.
5. Spring Vegetable Medley: A mix of sautéed seasonal veggies offers color and nutrition to your table.
6. Fruit Skewers: Colorful fruit skewers make for an easy, refreshing side that pairs nicely with desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easter Goody Bars, it’s easy to make small mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Cooling Time: Rushing to cut the bars before they cool can lead to a messy result. Allow them to cool completely to set properly.

• Overmixing the Crust: Mixing too much can lead to a tough crust instead of a crumbly texture. Stir just until combined for the best results.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using improper measurements can throw off the balance of flavors and textures. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.

• Ignoring Cooking Times: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your bars toward the end of baking time to prevent overbaking.

• Using Cold Butter: If your butter isn’t melted, it won’t mix well with the dry ingredients. Make sure it’s fully melted for a cohesive mixture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best used within 5-7 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep in the main compartment, not in the door.

Freezing Easter Goody Bars

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easter Goody Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easter Goody Bars that might help clarify any doubts you have.

How do I know when my Easter Goody Bars are done?

The edges should slightly pull away from the pan, and the center should be set but still soft. Avoid overbaking!

Can I customize my Easter Goody Bars?

Absolutely! You can swap out m&m’s for other candies or add nuts and dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.

What should I serve with Easter Goody Bars?

These bars are great on their own or served with ice cream or whipped cream for an added treat!

Are Easter Goody Bars suitable for kids?

Yes! These bars are fun, colorful, and perfect as a springtime snack that kids will love.

Final Thoughts

Easter Goody Bars are delightful treats that bring joy to any spring gathering. With their crunchy crust, creamy filling, and festive toppings, they’re versatile enough to customize according to your taste preferences. Try adding your favorite candies or sprinkles and enjoy this delicious dessert with family and friends!