Spring is here, and that means Easter is just around the corner! One of the most iconic treats of this holiday is egg-shaped candy. From chocolate to jelly beans, these sweets are a staple in Easter baskets around the world. But why settle for store-bought candy when you can make your own? In this article, we’re going to share two delicious and easy-to-make recipes for egg-shaped Easter candy. So put on your apron and let’s get started!
Recipe 1: Chocolate Peanut Butter Eggs
There’s nothing quite like the combination of chocolate and peanut butter. These egg-shaped candies are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter and butter until creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar and mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into egg shapes and place on a baking sheet lined with wax paper. Freeze for 30 minutes.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and vegetable oil in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until smooth.
- Using a fork, dip the frozen peanut butter eggs into the melted chocolate and coat completely. Place back on the wax paper-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until firm, about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Information:
Serving Size: 1 egg
Calories: 180
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 5mg
Sodium: 50mg
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 16g
Protein: 3g
Cooking Time:
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Equipment:
- Large bowl
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Baking sheet
- Wax paper
- Fork
Serving Suggestions:
These chocolate peanut butter eggs are perfect for Easter baskets or as a sweet treat any time of year.
Variations:
You can use milk or dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet, or add chopped nuts to the peanut butter mixture for extra crunch.
Substitutions:
If you don’t have vegetable oil, you can use coconut oil or shortening instead.
Storage:
Keep these candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Tips:
Make sure the peanut butter mixture is firm before dipping in chocolate, or it may fall apart. You can also use a toothpick to help with dipping if you’re having trouble.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?
A: Yes, but the texture may be slightly different.
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Yes, but the flavor may be slightly different.
Recipe 2: Jelly Bean Eggs
If you’re looking for a fruity alternative to chocolate, these jelly bean eggs are a fun and colorful option. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups jelly beans
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a food processor, pulse the jelly beans until they are finely chopped.
- In a large bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, water, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add the chopped jelly beans to the powdered sugar mixture and stir until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into egg shapes and place on a baking sheet lined with wax paper. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Nutritional Information:
Serving Size: 1 egg
Calories: 70
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 0mg
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 15g
Protein: 0g
Cooking Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Equipment:
- Food processor
- Large bowl
- Baking sheet
- Wax paper
Serving Suggestions:
These jelly bean eggs are a fun addition to any Easter basket or candy dish.
Variations:
You can use any flavor of jelly beans you like, or mix and match for a colorful assortment.
Substitutions:
If you don’t have powdered sugar, you can use granulated sugar instead. Just pulse it in the food processor until it becomes a fine powder.
Storage:
Keep these candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Tips:
Make sure the jelly bean mixture is firm before shaping into eggs, or they may fall apart. You can also use a small cookie scoop to help with shaping if you’re having trouble.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use other types of candy instead of jelly beans?
A: Yes, you can use any soft candy that can be chopped in a food processor.
Q: Can I use food coloring to make the eggs more colorful?
A: Yes, you can add a few drops of food coloring to the powdered sugar mixture before adding the chopped jelly beans.
Final Thoughts
Whether you prefer chocolate or fruity candy, these egg-shaped treats are the perfect addition to any Easter celebration. With just a few simple ingredients and some creative shaping, you can make your own delicious candy at home. So why not give it a try this year? Your taste buds will thank you!