If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines crunch, sweetness, and a touch of nostalgia, look no further than Goody Goody Bars. These delightful bars are a perfect blend of peanut butter, cornflakes, and chocolate, making them an irresistible snack for any time of day. Whether you’re packing them in school lunches, enjoying them as a post-dinner treat, or needing a quick energy boost, Goody Goody Bars are here to delight your taste buds and satisfy your cravings.
Top Reasons to Make Goody Goody Bars
There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of Goody Goody Bars. Here are just a few:
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients, these bars come together in no time.
- Kid-Friendly: The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe by adding your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
- Make Ahead: They store well, making them perfect for meal prep or snacks throughout the week.
Ingredient List
To make your own Goody Goody Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (220g) packed light brown sugar
- 1 cup (341ml) light corn syrup
- 1 cup (258g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup (146g) salted dry-roasted peanuts, chopped
- 6 cups (168g) cornflakes
- 1 cup (180g) semisweet chocolate chips
Tools & Equipment Needed
Before you start baking, gather these essential tools:
- Mixing Bowl: For combining your ingredients.
- Spatula: To help mix and spread the mixture evenly.
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: To hold your Goody Goody Bars as they set.
- Double Boiler or Microwave-Safe Bowl: For melting chocolate.
- Parchment Paper: To line the baking dish for easy removal.
Goody Goody Bars in Steps
Making Goody Goody Bars is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for a delicious result:
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
Step 2: Combine Sugar and Syrup
In a large mixing bowl, combine the packed light brown sugar and light corn syrup. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Add Peanut Butter
Add the creamy peanut butter to the bowl and mix until fully incorporated. The mixture should be thick and creamy.
Step 4: Stir in Peanuts and Cornflakes
Gently fold in the chopped salted dry-roasted peanuts and cornflakes. Be careful to keep the cornflakes intact for that delightful crunch.
Step 5: Press into the Baking Dish
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to press it down evenly, ensuring it’s compact.
Step 6: Melt the Chocolate
In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips until smooth. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to avoid burning.
Step 7: Spread Chocolate on Top
Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed mixture in the baking dish. Use your spatula to spread it evenly across the top.
Step 8: Chill and Set
Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for at least two hours to allow the bars to set properly.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
Once set, lift the bars out of the baking dish using the parchment overhang. Slice into squares or rectangles and enjoy your homemade Goody Goody Bars!
Healthier Substitutions
If you want to lighten up your Goody Goody Bars or cater to dietary preferences, consider these substitutions:
- Natural Peanut Butter: Use natural peanut butter with no added sugars or oils for a healthier option.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Substitute the light corn syrup with honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweetener.
- Dark Chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate chips to increase the antioxidants in your dessert.
- Gluten-Free Cornflakes: Use gluten-free cornflakes to make the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Watch Outs & How to Fix
While making Goody Goody Bars, here are a few things to watch out for:
- Sticky Mixture: If the mixture is too sticky to handle, you can add a little more cornflakes to help absorb the moisture.
- Chocolate Hardening: If the chocolate hardens too quickly, gently reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds to soften it again.
- Bars Crumbling: If your bars crumble when you cut them, they may not have been pressed firmly enough. Next time, press down more firmly.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
If you have any leftover Goody Goody Bars, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars. Just ensure they are wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other nut butters?
Absolutely! You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture may vary slightly.
How do I know when the bars are set?
The bars are set when they are firm to the touch and the chocolate on top has hardened. A minimum of two hours in the refrigerator is usually sufficient.
Can I add other ingredients to the bars?
Yes! Feel free to add mini marshmallows, dried fruits, or even different types of nuts to customize your Goody Goody Bars to your liking.
What’s the best way to cut these bars?
Using a sharp knife, gently cut the bars in a sawing motion to prevent them from crumbling. Warming the knife slightly can also help make cleaner cuts.
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Before You Go
Creating Goody Goody Bars is not only an enjoyable experience but also a rewarding one. The combination of flavors and textures makes for a delightful treat that you and your loved ones will treasure. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in these homemade delights. Whether for a special occasion or just a simple snack, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy baking!
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Goody Goody Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the packed light brown sugar and light corn syrup. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add the creamy peanut butter to the bowl and mix until fully incorporated. The mixture should be thick and creamy.
- Gently fold in the chopped salted dry-roasted peanuts and cornflakes. Be careful to keep the cornflakes intact for that delightful crunch.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to press it down evenly, ensuring it’s compact.
- In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips until smooth. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to avoid burning.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed mixture in the baking dish. Use your spatula to spread it evenly across the top.
- Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for at least two hours to allow the bars to set properly.
- Once set, lift the bars out of the baking dish using the parchment overhang. Slice into squares or rectangles and enjoy your homemade Goody Goody Bars!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For longer storage, freeze the bars tightly wrapped in plastic wrap.
- Use natural peanut butter for a healthier option.
