Easter Goody Bars

Easter Goody Bars are the perfect treat for spring celebrations! These delightful bars combine a crunchy pecan and oat crumble crust with a creamy fudge filling, topped with festive Easter m&m candies and colorful sprinkles. They’re ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or as a sweet surprise for the kids. With their vibrant colors and rich flavors, Easter Goody Bars stand out as a must-try recipe this season!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

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:
• For Topping:
• How to Make Easter Goody Bars
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Make the Crust Mixture
• Step 3: Form the Crust
• Step 4: Prepare the Fudge Filling
• Step 5: Add Fudge Filling to Crust
• Step 6: Add Toppings
• Step 7: Bake
• How to Serve Easter Goody Bars
• With Fresh Fruit
• Topped with Whipped Cream
• Accompanied by Ice Cream
• Decorated with Sprinkles
• As Part of a Dessert Table
• 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
• Can I use different nuts in my Easter Goody Bars?
• How do I customize my Easter Goody Bars?
• What should I serve with Easter Goody Bars?
• How can I make these bars gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Deliciously Rich: The combination of chocolate, pecans, and m&m’s creates a flavor explosion that will please any sweet tooth.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for Easter celebrations, parties, or just a fun baking project at home. You can customize the toppings to suit your taste!
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love the colorful m&m’s and the chewy texture of these bars. They make great snacks for school lunches or after-school treats.
• Make Ahead: These bars can be made in advance and stored for several days, making them perfect for busy schedules.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Easter Goody Bars is straightforward when you have the right tools on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Cooking spray or parchment paper
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 baking pan: This size is perfect for creating a thick layer of bars that will hold together well when cut.
• Mixing bowls: Using multiple bowls helps keep ingredients organized during preparation.
• Saucepan: Ideal for melting chocolate and combining your fudge filling smoothly.
• Spatula: A versatile tool that makes mixing and spreading ingredients easier.

Ingredients

Easter Goody Bars require the following ingredients:

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

For Topping:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 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 following ingredients:
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 it resembles “wet sand” and is crumbly.

Step 3: Form the Crust

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

Step 4: Prepare the Fudge Filling

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

Stir continuously until melted and fully combined. Remove from heat once melted.

Step 5: Add Fudge Filling to Crust

Pour the melted chocolate mixture over your pressed crust evenly.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Sprinkle your reserved crumble over the fudge filling. Then add:
1 cup Easter pastel m&m’s
Gently press them into the crumble topping along with any optional sprinkles.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 20–23 minutes. The edges should start pulling away from the pan slightly. Allow to cool for about 30 minutes to an hour before cutting into bars.

Enjoy your delicious Easter Goody Bars!

How to Serve Easter Goody Bars

Easter Goody Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. When serving these delicious bars, consider some fun and festive options that will enhance your spring gatherings.

With Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
• Citrus Slices: Add orange or lemon wedges to bring a zesty flavor that complements the sweetness.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and Airy: A dollop of whipped cream on top makes these bars even more indulgent and enjoyable.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or almond extract to the whipped cream for an extra layer of flavor.

Accompanied by Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice pairs perfectly with the rich fudge filling.
• Mint Chocolate Chip: For a twist, serve with mint chocolate chip ice cream for a refreshing surprise.

Decorated with Sprinkles

• Colorful Touch: Extra sprinkles on top add a festive look and make them more appealing, especially for kids.
• Themed Sprinkles: Use Easter-themed sprinkles to match the holiday spirit.

As Part of a Dessert Table

• Mixed Treats: Include Easter Goody Bars alongside cookies, cupcakes, and other desserts for an inviting dessert spread.
• Variety of Flavors: Offer different types of bars like blondies or cookie bars for guests to choose from.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Easter Goody Bars

To make your Easter Goody Bars truly stand out, follow these expert tips for perfect results every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps achieve a smoother fudge filling and ensures even baking.
• Don’t Overmix the Crust: Mix just until combined to avoid tough bars; they should remain crumbly yet cohesive.
• Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on the edges as they pull away from the pan; this is key to knowing when they’re done.
• Cool Completely Before Cutting: Allowing the bars to cool ensures clean cuts and better texture when serving.
• Experiment with Mix-Ins: Try adding nuts or different types of chocolate chips for unique flavor variations.
• Store Properly: Keep the bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.

Best Side Dishes for Easter Goody Bars

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

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A combination of seasonal fruits brings freshness and balances out the sweetness of the bars.
2. Spring Vegetable Platter: Crisp veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers provide a crunchy contrast.
3. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses can offer savory notes that complement sweet treats beautifully.
4. Mini Quiches: These bite-sized savory pastries are perfect for brunch-style gatherings alongside sweet desserts.
5. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad with herbs and veggies adds substance while keeping things colorful and festive.
6. Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs are always a hit during Easter celebrations and pair well with sweet desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Easter Goody Bars can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Wrong Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven to the correct temperature. An incorrect temperature can lead to uneven baking.
• Overmixing the Crust: Mixing the crust too much can make it tough. Just combine until it’s crumbly.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing the bars to cool is crucial. Skipping this step can result in a mushy texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Use precise measurements for best results. Too much or too little can alter the flavor.
• Using Unsalted Butter: If you prefer salted butter, adjust other salt measurements accordingly. Unsalted butter changes the taste profile of your bars.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Easter Goody Bars

• Freeze for up to three months in an airtight container.
• Wrap each bar in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.

Reheating Easter Goody Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat each bar for 15-20 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Easter Goody Bars.

Can I use different nuts in my Easter Goody Bars?

Yes! You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer.

How do I customize my Easter Goody Bars?

Feel free to add different candies or even dried fruit for variety.

What should I serve with Easter Goody Bars?

These bars pair well with coffee, tea, or milk, making them perfect for any gathering.

How can I make these bars gluten-free?

Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy gluten-free Easter Goody Bars.

Final Thoughts

Easter Goody Bars are not just delicious; they also offer a fun way to celebrate spring. With their creamy fudge filling and crunchy topping, these bars are sure to delight everyone. Feel free to customize them with your favorite candies or mix-ins!