Butterscotch Haystacks Recipe
Introduction
Butterscotch haystacks are a delightful, no-bake treat combining crunchy chow mein noodles with creamy butterscotch and peanut butter. These sweet, crunchy clusters come together quickly and make a perfect snack or dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 7 cups chow mein noodles
- 1½ cups butterscotch chips
- ¾ cup peanut butter
- ½ cup salted peanuts
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the salted peanuts and chow mein noodles in a large mixing bowl.
- Step 2: In a medium saucepan, melt the butterscotch chips and peanut butter together over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth.
- Step 3: Pour the melted butterscotch and peanut butter mixture over the peanuts and noodles. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Step 4: Drop the mixture by tablespoons onto wax paper to form little piles. Allow them to cool completely until set.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free option, substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter and omit the peanuts.
- Add a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips or shredded coconut for extra flavor and texture.
- Use a silicone scoop to create uniform-sized haystacks quickly.
Storage
Store the butterscotch haystacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be refrigerated to firm up further and will keep well for about two weeks. Reheat gently at room temperature if they become too hard.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture to the haystacks, making them even more interesting to eat.
Do I have to use chow mein noodles?
Chow mein noodles provide the signature crunch and lightness of this recipe, but you can substitute with crispy rice noodles or pretzel sticks if needed.
Print
Butterscotch Haystacks Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 30 haystacks 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy no-bake treat, Butterscotch Haystacks combine crunchy chow mein noodles with creamy melted butterscotch and peanut butter, studded with salted peanuts for extra crunch. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert, these no-fuss clusters come together in minutes without any oven time.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 7 cups chow mein noodles
- 1½ cups butterscotch chips
- ¾ cup peanut butter
- ½ cup salted peanuts
Instructions
- Prepare the dry ingredients: Place the peanuts and chow mein noodles in a large mixing bowl, ensuring they’re evenly combined for a balanced distribution of crunch in every bite.
- Melt the binding mixture: In a medium saucepan over low heat, gently melt the butterscotch chips and peanut butter together, stirring frequently until smooth and fully combined without burning.
- Combine and coat: Pour the warm butterscotch and peanut butter mixture over the peanut and noodle mixture. Toss thoroughly to evenly coat all pieces with the sticky mixture, creating clusters.
- Shape the haystacks: Using tablespoons, drop the coated mixture onto wax paper in small piles or ‘haystacks.’ Make sure they’re spaced to avoid sticking.
- Cool and set: Allow the haystacks to cool completely at room temperature until firm and set before serving or storing.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for easier melting and better coating.
- To speed up the setting process, place the haystacks in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes.
- For a nut-free version, omit the peanuts or replace with seeds such as sunflower seeds.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Chow mein noodles can be substituted with crispy rice cereal if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: butterscotch haystacks, no-bake dessert, chow mein noodle clusters, peanut butter treats, easy snacks
