Easter is just around the corner and it’s time to start planning for the annual Easter egg hunt. While the eggs are the main attraction, you can’t forget about the candy inside. Candy is the perfect way to add some sweetness to the festivities and make the hunt even more fun. So, let’s take a look at some of the best candies for Easter egg hunts that are sure to delight kids and adults alike!
The Classic: Chocolate Eggs
When it comes to Easter candy, you can’t go wrong with chocolate eggs. They’re a classic for a reason! Whether you prefer milk, dark or white chocolate, there’s an egg for everyone. Here’s how to make your own chocolate eggs:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chocolate chips (milk, dark or white)
- 1 tsp vegetable oil
- Candy sprinkles or colored sugar (optional)
Instructions:
- Melt chocolate chips and vegetable oil in a double boiler or microwave, stirring occasionally until smooth.
- Fill egg-shaped silicone molds with melted chocolate, leaving some room at the top.
- Sprinkle candy sprinkles or colored sugar on top of the chocolate (optional).
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
- Pop the chocolate eggs out of the molds and fill plastic Easter eggs with them for the egg hunt!
Nutritional Information:
One chocolate egg (depending on size) contains around 100-150 calories, 10-15g of sugar, and 5-10g of fat.
Cooking Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: 30 minutes.
Equipment:
- Double boiler or microwave
- Egg-shaped silicone molds
- Plastic Easter eggs
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy the chocolate eggs as a standalone treat or use them to decorate cupcakes, cakes, or other Easter-themed desserts.
Variations:
You can add different flavors to the melted chocolate, such as peppermint, orange, or raspberry extract. You can also mix in chopped nuts, dried fruit, or crushed cookies for added crunch and texture.
Substitutions:
If you don’t have silicone molds, you can use plastic Easter eggs as a mold instead. Just make sure to grease them with cooking spray before filling them with melted chocolate. You can also use other types of chocolate, such as chocolate bars or chocolate wafers, instead of chocolate chips.
Storage:
Store the chocolate eggs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Tips:
- Make sure to temper the chocolate properly to avoid it from blooming (forming white streaks on the surface).
- You can use a toothpick to remove air bubbles from the melted chocolate before pouring it into the molds.
- Use a piping bag or a spoon to fill the molds with chocolate more easily.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use white chocolate instead of regular chocolate?
Yes, you can use white chocolate chips or wafers instead of regular chocolate chips. Just keep in mind that white chocolate is sweeter and has a different texture than regular chocolate.
Can I use candy melts instead of chocolate?
Yes, you can use candy melts, which are specially formulated for melting and dipping. They come in a variety of colors and flavors and are easy to work with.
The Surprise: Jelly Beans Filled Eggs
If you want to add a fun twist to the traditional chocolate eggs, why not try making jelly beans filled eggs? These eggs are easy to make and will surprise and delight the little ones. Here’s how:
Ingredients:
- Plastic Easter eggs
- Jelly beans (assorted colors)
Instructions:
- Fill one half of a plastic Easter egg with jelly beans.
- Close the egg and wrap it with colorful tape or ribbon to keep it from opening during the egg hunt.
- Hide the eggs and let the kids hunt for them!
Nutritional Information:
A serving size of jelly beans (25g) contains around 100 calories, 22g of sugar, and no fat.
Cooking Time:
Preparation time: 5 minutes. Cooking time: 0 minutes.
Equipment:
- Plastic Easter eggs
- Colorful tape or ribbon
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy the jelly beans as a standalone treat or mix them with other types of candy for a colorful and tasty Easter basket.
Variations:
You can use other types of small candies, such as M&Ms, Skittles, or gummy bears, instead of jelly beans. You can also mix different types of candies in one egg for added variety.
Substitutions:
If you don’t have plastic Easter eggs, you can use small plastic bags or pouches instead. Just make sure to tie them securely with a ribbon or twist tie.
Storage:
Store the jelly beans in an airtight container in a cool and dry place for up to 6 months.
Tips:
- Make sure to use fresh and good quality jelly beans to avoid any risk of choking or food poisoning.
- Choose jelly beans in different colors and flavors to make the eggs more attractive and appealing.
- Make sure to hide the eggs in safe and accessible places, away from sharp objects, electrical outlets, or areas with heavy foot traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use other types of candy instead of jelly beans?
Yes, you can use other types of small and colorful candies, such as M&Ms, Skittles, or gummy bears. Just make sure they fit inside the plastic eggs and don’t pose a choking hazard.
Can I reuse the plastic Easter eggs?
Yes, you can reuse the plastic Easter eggs for future egg hunts or for other purposes, such as storage or decoration.
Conclusion
There you have it, two easy and delicious recipes for Easter egg hunt candy. Whether you prefer classic chocolate eggs or surprise-filled jelly bean eggs, these treats are sure to add some sweetness and fun to your Easter celebrations. Don’t forget to hide them well and watch the kids’ faces light up with joy and excitement!