How To Make Haystacks
Haystacks are the perfect no-bake cookies that combine sweet and salty flavors with a delightful crunch. Whether you’re preparing treats for the holiday season or just craving a quick sweet treat, this haystack cookie recipe is a huge hit. Featuring creamy peanut butter and crunchy chow mein noodles, these little haystacks are an easy recipe even for a first time baker.
This butterscotch haystacks recipe is perfect for christmas time, a cookie exchange, or adding to your holiday cookie tray. With simple steps, this easy treat is sure to be the perfect addition to your collection of bake recipes. Plus, the mix of crispy noodles and melted chocolate offers a unique twist to traditional christmas cookies!
Why You’ll Love Haystacks
- Quick to prepare, no baking required, making it ideal for busy times of the year.
- Combines creamy peanut butter with crispy noodles for a salty treat that satisfies.
- A versatile haystack candy you can adapt with mini marshmallows, white chocolate chips, or holiday sprinkles.
- A huge hit on any cookie plate, especially during cookie exchanges or the holiday season.
What You Need to Make Haystacks
To make this haystack candy, you’ll need classic ingredients like butterscotch chips, creamy peanut butter, and chow mein noodles. These form the base of the recipe, and you can add optional items like almond bark, peanut butter chips, or mini marshmallows for extra flavor. For exact ingredient amounts, check the recipe card below. Don’t forget tools like a large bowl, wax paper, and a parchment-lined baking sheet to ensure easy cleanup!
How to Make Haystacks
Melt the Base: Combine butterscotch chips and peanut butter in a microwave-safe large bowl or use a double boiler. Stir until smooth and creamy. If desired, substitute with almond bark or semi-sweet chocolate chips for a different flavor.
Mix in the Crunch: Gently fold in the chow mein noodles and peanuts (or use crunchy peanut butter for an extra layer of texture). Be careful not to crush the crispy noodles while mixing.
Form the Haystacks: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. This step is perfect for creating uniform little haystacks that set evenly.
Cool and Set: Allow the haystacks to cool on wax paper at room temperature or in the fridge for quicker results.
Optional Decorations: For christmas time, top with holiday sprinkles or drizzle with melted chocolate. White chocolate haystacks recipes are also a festive variation!
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I make haystacks with white chocolate chips?
Yes! White chocolate haystacks recipes are just as delicious. Replace the butterscotch chips with white chocolate chips for a sweeter variation.
How do I store haystack cookies?
Store your haystack candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Refrigeration can help them last longer, especially during warmer months.
Are haystacks suitable for a calorie diet?
The haystack cookie recipe is a sweet treat that can fit into a calorie diet when enjoyed in moderation. Check the daily values of each ingredient to track your intake.
What’s the best way to make haystacks festive?
Add holiday sprinkles, use a mix of chocolate and butterscotch chips, or opt for white chocolate for a christmas cookies vibe. They’re a perfect addition to any holiday cookie tray
Haystack Cookie Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups butterscotch chips
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 container crunchy chow mein noodles
- 1/4 cup peanuts optional
Optional Additions
- Mini marshmallows
- Holiday sprinkles
- White chocolate chips
- Almond bark
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe large bowl or double boiler, combine the butterscotch chips and creamy peanut butter. Heat until fully melted, stirring frequently to create a smooth mixture.
- Gently stir in the chow mein noodles and peanuts (or crunchy peanut butter if using). Mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop small mounds of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or wax paper.
- Let the haystacks cool at room temperature for about 1 hour, or refrigerate them for quicker setting.
- Top with holiday sprinkles, drizzle with melted chocolate, or try variations like white chocolate haystacks for a festive touch.