Easter Goody Bars

Easter Goody Bars are a delightful treat that captures the essence of springtime celebrations. With a rich pecan and oat crumble crust, creamy fudge filling, and vibrant Easter m&m candies on top, these bars are perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting an Easter brunch or looking for a sweet addition to your dessert table, these bars will surely impress. Their combination of flavors and textures makes them a standout choice for festive occasions.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Crust
• For the Filling
• Toppings
• How to Make Easter Goody Bars
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Crust Mixture
• Step 3: Form the Crust
• Step 4: Create the Fudge Filling
• Step 5: Add Toppings
• Step 6: Bake & Cool
• How to Serve Easter Goody Bars
• For Family Gatherings
• As Part of a Dessert Table
• At Picnics or Outdoor Events
• As Gifts or Favors
• How to Perfect Easter Goody Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Easter Goody Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Easter Goody Bars
• Reheating Easter Goody Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I know when my Easter Goody Bars are done?
• Can I customize my Easter Goody Bars?
• What can I serve with Easter Goody Bars?
• How do I cut my Easter Goody Bars neatly?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars come together quickly.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The colorful m&m’s and fudgy filling make these bars irresistible to both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for Easter, but delicious enough to enjoy year-round at any celebration or gathering.
• Make Ahead: These bars can be prepared in advance, saving you time on the day of your event.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out the m&m’s for other seasonal candies or add nuts for extra crunch.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Easter Goody Bars, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

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 ideal for creating uniform bars that cook evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to keep ingredients organized while mixing.
• Saucepan: A good saucepan ensures even melting of ingredients like chocolate and butter.

Ingredients

Easter Goody Bars use a variety of flavorful ingredients that contribute to their delicious taste.

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

Toppings

• 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 Fahrenheit. Spray a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. You can also use tin foil; just be sure to spray it as well.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the following:
1. 1½ cups quick oats
2. 1½ cups all-purpose flour
3. 1 cup brown sugar
4. ½ teaspoon salt
5. 1 cup melted butter
6. 1 cup chopped pecans

Stir everything together until it 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 mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking pan firmly to form an even crust.

Step 4: Create the Fudge Filling

In a saucepan over medium-high heat:
1. Combine 14 oz sweetened condensed milk,
2. 1 cup chocolate chips,
3. 2 tablespoons butter.

Stir until melted and smooth. Once combined, remove from heat and pour over the crust.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Evenly sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture over the melted chocolate filling. Then add in:
– 1 cup Easter pastel m&m’s,
– Optional Easter sprinkles, pressing them gently into the top.

Step 6: Bake & Cool

Bake in your preheated oven for 20-23 minutes until edges slightly pull away from the pan. Let cool for about 30 minutes to an hour before cutting into bars; they will continue to firm up as they cool down.

Enjoy these festive Easter Goody Bars as a sweet treat this season!

How to Serve Easter Goody Bars

Easter Goody Bars are not just delicious; they are also versatile. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.

For Family Gatherings

• Cut into bite-sized pieces: Smaller portions make it easy for guests to enjoy without feeling too indulgent.
• Serve warm with ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the fudgy filling beautifully.

As Part of a Dessert Table

• Arrange with seasonal fruits: Fresh strawberries or citrus slices add a refreshing contrast to the sweet bars.
• Include a variety of Easter-themed treats: Pair with cupcakes or cookies decorated in festive colors for a colorful display.

At Picnics or Outdoor Events

• Pack individually: Wrap each bar in colorful wax paper for easy transport and a fun presentation.
• Accompany with drinks: Pair with lemonade or iced tea for a delightful springtime refreshment.

As Gifts or Favors

• Place in decorative boxes: These make great gifts for friends and family during Easter celebrations.
• Add a personal note: A small card wishing Happy Easter adds a thoughtful touch to your gift.

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How to Perfect Easter Goody Bars

For the best results when making Easter Goody Bars, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your oats, flour, and butter are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overmix the crumble: Mixing just until combined helps maintain that perfect crumbly texture.
• Adjust baking time carefully: Keep an eye on the edges; they should be slightly pulled away from the pan but still soft in the middle.
• Let them cool completely: Allowing time for cooling helps the bars set up properly, making them easier to cut.
• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to swap out chocolate chips for other candies or nuts based on your preference.
• Use salted butter: It enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the fudge filling.

Best Side Dishes for Easter Goody Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Easter Goody Bars can elevate your dessert spread. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a light and refreshing contrast to the rich bars.
2. Spring Green Salad: Crisp greens tossed with a citrus vinaigrette can balance out the sweetness nicely.
3. Mini Quiches: These savory bites offer a delightful contrast in flavor and make for an appealing brunch option.
4. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses paired with crackers adds sophistication and satisfies savory cravings.
5. Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs bring a nostalgic touch that complements any dessert table.
6. Vegetable Crudités with Dip: Colorful veggies served with ranch or hummus create a healthy snacking option alongside sweets.
7. Scones or Biscuits: Light, fluffy scones can add another layer of flavor; serve them plain or with jam.
8. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet treats echo the chocolatey goodness of your bars while adding an elegant flair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes while preparing Easter Goody Bars. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect oven temperature: Always preheat your oven to 350 degrees before baking. An unheated oven can lead to uneven baking and affect the texture of the bars.
• Overmixing the crumble: Mix the ingredients until they resemble wet sand. Overmixing can lead to a dense crust instead of a light, crumbly texture.
• Not letting them cool: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly and makes slicing easier.
• Using the wrong pan size: Make sure you use a 9×13 baking pan. Using a different size can alter cooking time and consistency.
• Skipping the butter: Don’t forget to use melted butter in both the crumble and fudge filling. It’s essential for achieving rich flavor and proper texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Easter Goody Bars in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to one week.

Freezing Easter Goody Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

Reheating Easter Goody Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees, place bars on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easter Goody Bars.

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

The edges should slightly pull away from the pan, but be careful not to overbake! They will continue cooking as they cool.

Can I customize my Easter Goody Bars?

Absolutely! You can add different types of nuts, chocolate chips, or even swap out M&M’s for other candies based on your preference.

What can I serve with Easter Goody Bars?

Easter Goody Bars pair well with coffee or tea, making them perfect for brunch or dessert after a festive meal.

How do I cut my Easter Goody Bars neatly?

Allow them to cool completely before cutting. Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean slices.

Final Thoughts

Easter Goody Bars are a delightful springtime treat that combines creamy fudge with a crunchy pecan-oat topping. They offer plenty of customization options, so feel free to get creative with mix-ins! Try making these delicious bars this season; they’re sure to be a hit!