Description
Delicious Haystacks are easy no-bake treats made with creamy peanut butter, butterscotch chips, crunchy chow mein noodles, and a delightful sprinkle of salted peanuts and shredded coconut. These sweet and crunchy clusters are perfect for a quick snack or party treat, requiring minimal prep and no baking.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Mixture
- 1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter (Substitute with almond butter for a nut-free option)
- 1 cup Butterscotch Chips (Can be replaced with chocolate chips)
Add-Ins
- 3 cups Chow Mein Noodles (Substitute with crispy rice cereal for a similar effect)
- 1/2 cup Salted Peanuts (Use unsalted if preferred)
- 1/2 cup Shredded Coconut
Optional
- 1 teaspoon Maldon Salt (Skip if preferred)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and butterscotch chips. This mixture forms the sweet, sticky base that will bind the haystacks together.
- Melt the Mixture: Microwave the peanut butter and butterscotch chips on half power (50%) for about 4 minutes. Stir every minute to ensure the mixture becomes smooth and fully melted without burning.
- Add Crunchy Ingredients: Gently fold in the chow mein noodles and salted peanuts, making sure every noodle is evenly coated with the melted mixture for consistent flavor and texture.
- Form the Haystacks: Using a tablespoon, drop generous mounds of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Shape each mound lightly with your fingers into small clusters or ‘haystacks.’
- Optional Finishing Touch: Sprinkle a pinch of Maldon salt on top of each haystack to enhance the flavors with a touch of saltiness.
- Set the Treats: Allow the haystacks to set at room temperature for about 2 hours until firm and ready to serve.
Notes
- You can substitute the creamy peanut butter with almond butter for a nut-free version.
- Butterscotch chips can be swapped with chocolate chips if preferred.
- Chow mein noodles can be replaced with crispy rice cereal for a similar crunch.
- Use unsalted peanuts if you want to control saltiness in the recipe.
- If you prefer quicker setting, place the haystacks in the refrigerator for 30-45 minutes.
- Ensure to stir the mixture thoroughly during melting to prevent burning.
