Nut Goodie Bars
Nut Goodie Bars are rich, layered treats combining chocolate, peanut butter, and crunchy peanuts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing at gatherings or as a snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt chocolate chips and butterscotch chips in a double boiler over low heat.
- Pour half of the melted mixture into a greased 9x13-inch pan and cool in the refrigerator until hard.
- Keep the remaining half of the melted mixture in the double boiler for later use.
- Mix together dry vanilla pudding, evaporated milk, and margarine in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 1 minute.
- Add powdered sugar to the mixture and stir until blended.
- Add vanilla or maple flavoring and stir well.
- Spread this pudding mixture over the first layer in the pan.
- Mix Spanish peanuts into the remaining melted chocolate and butterscotch mixture.
- Spread this peanut mixture on top of the pudding layer.
- Refrigerate until set and ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the chocolate and butterscotch chips are fully melted before combining. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, consider substituting half of the Spanish peanuts with chopped walnuts or pecans. If you're looking to cut calories, using a reduced-fat margarine can help without sacrificing too much flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Nut Goodie Bars are perfect for a sweet treat after dinner or as a snack during the day. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For a festive touch, serve them alongside slices of Pumpkin Bread Or Bars or at a potluck alongside American recipes for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Nut Goodie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator before serving, as they retain their texture well after freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nut Goodie Bars contains roughly 1340 calories, with 24g protein, 159g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (58% of the Daily Value), protein (49% of the Daily Value), and calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 830mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Spanish peanuts are traditional, you can easily substitute them with your favorite nuts like almonds or cashews for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to chop them into smaller pieces so they mix well with the other ingredients.
How do I know when the bars are set properly?
The Nut Goodie Bars should be firm to the touch and hold their shape when cut. After refrigerating, allow them to chill for at least 2 hours, but for best results, leave them overnight. This will help the layers meld together perfectly and enhance the flavors.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can make gluten-free Nut Goodie Bars by ensuring that the dry vanilla pudding mix and powdered sugar are gluten-free certified. Many brands offer gluten-free options, so be sure to check the labels when shopping.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).