Easter Goody Bars

Name: Easter Goody Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 23 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
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 milk chocolate chips OR semi-sweet; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 cup Easter pastel m&m's

Published: July 8, 2025

by eva

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Easter Goody Bars are a delightful treat that embodies the spirit of spring! These bars feature a deliciously crumbly crust made from oats and pecans, filled with a rich fudge center, and topped with colorful Easter M&M candies. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying at home, these bars combine flavor and fun in every bite. Their vibrant colors and sweet taste make them a standout dessert for any occasion!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Make: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these bars in no time.
Crowd-Pleaser: Each bite is packed with flavor, making them an instant hit at parties and family gatherings.
Versatile Ingredients: Use milk chocolate or semi-sweet chips based on your preference for a personalized touch.
Kid-Friendly Fun: The colorful M&M candies are perfect for kids to help decorate (and eat!).
Easy Storage: These bars store well, so you can prepare them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to have your tools ready. This will ensure a smooth baking experience for your Easter Goody Bars.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

9×13 baking pan: The right size ensures even cooking and easy cutting into squares.
Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in combining ingredients effectively without spilling.
Saucepan: Ideal for melting the fudge filling smoothly over low heat.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips OR semi-sweet
– 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. If you prefer, you can also line it with tin foil and spray the foil.

Step 2: Prepare 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 the mixture resembles wet sand and is crumbly.

Step 3: Form the Crust

Set aside 1½ cups of the crumble mixture. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan to form a crust.

Step 4: Make 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 constantly until everything melts together smoothly. Remove it from heat once combined.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bars

Pour the melted fudge filling over your prepared crust. Evenly sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture on top. Then add:
1 cup Easter pastel m&m’s

Gently press them into the crumble layer.

Step 6: Bake Your Bars

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-23 minutes. The edges should pull slightly away from the pan when done. Allow cooling for about 30 minutes to an hour before cutting into squares. Remember not to overbake; they will continue to cook as they cool!

How to Serve Easter Goody Bars

Easter Goody Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a spring gathering or simply indulging at home, these bars can be served in creative manners to please your guests.

Individual Servings

Serve each bar on a small dessert plate for an elegant touch.
Cut the bars into bite-sized pieces for easy snacking during an Easter egg hunt.

With Ice Cream

Pair the bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of warm and cold.
Drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce over the top for added sweetness.

Festive Platter

Arrange the bars on a colorful Easter-themed platter alongside other sweet treats like cookies and cupcakes.
Garnish the platter with fresh flowers or greenery to enhance presentation.

As Party Favors

Wrap individual bars in clear cellophane tied with pastel ribbons to give as party favors.
Include a personalized tag that shares the recipe for guests to recreate at home.

How to Perfect Easter Goody Bars

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

Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your butter, oats, and chocolate chips are fresh for the best flavor.
Don’t overmix: When preparing the crumble, mix just until combined to maintain crumbly texture.
Check doneness carefully: Keep an eye on the edges pulling away from the pan; this indicates they are ready to come out.
Let cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool fully before cutting helps them set properly and makes slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for Easter Goody Bars

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

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances sweetness.
Carrot Sticks with Hummus: A crunchy, healthy option that complements the sweetness of the bars.
Deviled Eggs: Classic Easter fare that brings savory flavors to your dessert spread.
Mini Quiches: These savory bites add variety and can be made with various fillings to suit all tastes.
Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses with crackers for a sophisticated touch alongside sweets.
Spring Pea Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad pairs well with rich desserts like Goody Bars.
Potato Salad: A creamy side that provides comfort against the sweet treats.
Grilled Vegetables: Colorful grilled veggies add a healthy twist and complement any dessert table beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes while making Easter Goody Bars is crucial for achieving the best results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Using cold butter: Cold butter can make the crumble mixture hard to blend. Always use melted butter to ensure a smooth texture.
Overbaking the bars: It’s easy to overbake when you can’t see the changes clearly. Keep an eye on them and take them out when the edges start pulling away from the pan.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can affect texture and taste. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts.
Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into warm bars can lead to a messy result. Allow them to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Ignoring storage instructions: Proper storage keeps your Easter Goody Bars fresh longer. Follow guidelines for refrigeration or freezing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Easter Goody Bars

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Easter Goody Bars

Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place bars on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual bars for 15-20 seconds until warm.
Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people have questions about making Easter Goody Bars. Here are some common inquiries:

Can I customize my Easter Goody Bars?

Yes! Feel free to add different candies or nuts based on your preferences.

What can I substitute for pecans in Easter Goody Bars?

You can use walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nut flavor.

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

Look for slightly pulled edges from the pan; they will continue cooking as they cool.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make gluten-free Easter Goody Bars.

Final Thoughts

Easter Goody Bars are not just delicious but also versatile. They bring joy with their creamy fudge filling and crunchy crumble topping. Customize them with your favorite candies or nuts for a personal touch. Give these bars a try this spring season!

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