Haystacks Recipe

Introduction

Haystacks are quick, no-bake treats that combine crunchy noodles with rich, melted chocolate and butterscotch. Perfect for holidays or anytime you want a sweet, crunchy snack without fussing over baking.

Ingredients

• 11 oz butterscotch chips
• 1 cup (270g) creamy peanut butter
• 12 oz chow mein noodles
• 1 1/2 cups (255g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Step 1: Line 2 baking sheets with silicone mats, parchment paper, or wax paper to prepare for both haystack varieties.
2. Step 2: For the butterscotch haystacks, place butterscotch chips and peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at 50% power for 1 minute, then stir. Repeat microwaving for another minute at 50%, stirring again. If not fully melted, microwave 30-45 seconds more at 50% power. Stir until smooth.
3. Step 3: Gradually add the chow mein noodles to the butterscotch mixture, stirring gently to coat all noodles evenly.
4. Step 4: Using a large cookie scoop (about 3.5 inches), quickly scoop mounds of the coated noodles onto the prepared baking sheets. Allow the haystacks to harden completely, about 1-2 hours, before removing from the sheets.
5. Step 5: For the chocolate haystacks, combine butterscotch chips and semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at 50% power for 1 minute, stir, then repeat for another minute at 50%. If needed, microwave an additional 30-45 seconds at 50% power and stir until smooth.
6. Step 6: Stir in the chow mein noodles gradually, coating them evenly with the chocolate mixture.
7. Step 7: Scoop mounds onto the prepared baking sheets using the cookie scoop and let them set completely before transferring to storage.

Tips & Variations

• For a nut-free version, omit the peanut butter and increase the butterscotch chips slightly, or substitute with sunflower seed butter.
• Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the mixture for extra texture and flavor.
• Use candy melts or white chocolate chips instead of butterscotch for a different twist.
• Make sure not to overheat the chips to prevent burning; stirring frequently helps with even melting.

Storage

Store haystacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them crisp longer, you can refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving. No reheating is needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular chow mein noodles instead of crispy ones?

For the best crunchy texture, use crispy chow mein noodles. Regular noodles will become soggy and won’t hold the haystack shape well.

Can I make haystacks ahead of time for a party?

Yes, haystacks can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container. Just keep them at room temperature and ensure they are well covered to maintain freshness.

Haystacks Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 105 reviews

Delicious and easy-to-make Haystacks featuring two delightful variations: Butterscotch and Chocolate. These no-bake treats combine creamy peanut butter or semi-sweet chocolate with crunchy chow mein noodles, creating the perfect sweet snack for any occasion.

• Author: Mila
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes (melting time in microwave)
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: Approximately 24 haystacks per recipe variation 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Butterscotch Haystacks

• 11 oz butterscotch chips
• 1 cup (270g) creamy peanut butter
• 12 oz chow mein noodles

Chocolate Haystacks

• 11 oz butterscotch chips
• 1 1/2 cups (255g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 12 oz chow mein noodles

Instructions

1. Prepare for Butterscotch Haystacks: Line 2 baking sheets with silicone mats, parchment paper, or wax paper to ensure easy removal and clean-up.
2. Melt Butterscotch and Peanut Butter: Place butterscotch chips and creamy peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on 50% power for 1 minute, then stir. Repeat the process until the mixture is completely melted and smooth, using 30-45 second intervals as needed.
3. Combine with Noodles: Gradually add chow mein noodles to the melted butterscotch and peanut butter mixture, stirring well to fully coat the noodles.
4. Form Haystacks: Use a large (#20) cookie scoop or a 3.5-inch scoop to quickly drop mounds of the coated noodles onto the prepared baking sheets.
5. Set Haystacks: Allow the haystacks to harden completely at room temperature for 1-2 hours before removing them from the trays. Store finished haystacks in an airtight container.
6. Prepare for Chocolate Haystacks: Line 2 baking sheets again with silicone mats, parchment, or wax paper.
7. Melt Butterscotch and Chocolate Chips: Place butterscotch chips and semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on 50% power for 1 minute, stirring. Repeat until smooth, using additional 30-45 second intervals if necessary.
8. Combine with Noodles: Gradually fold in chow mein noodles, mixing thoroughly to coat them evenly.
9. Form Chocolate Haystacks: Use the large cookie scoop to form mounds on the prepared sheets quickly.
10. Set and Store: Allow chocolate haystacks to harden at room temperature until firm, about 1-2 hours. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

• For best results, do not overheat the chips to avoid burning.
• You can substitute crunchy peanut butter for creamier variation or omit peanut butter for a dairy-free option.
• Use silicone mats or parchment for easy removal and clean-up.
• Store haystacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• These treats do not require baking and are perfect for quick and easy snacking.

Keywords: haystacks, butterscotch haystacks, chocolate haystacks, no-bake dessert, peanut butter treats, easy snacks