If you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert that doesn’t require any baking, these No-Bake Peanut Butter Haystacks are the perfect solution. With a delightful combination of butterscotch, peanut butter, and crispy chow mein noodles, these treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, they’re incredibly simple to make and perfect for any occasion. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the recipe step-by-step, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations including keto and low-carb options.
Ingredients (Servings 8 – 10)
- 11 oz. butterscotch chips
- 5 oz. can of crispy chow mein noodles
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup salted peanuts
Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Butterscotch Chips
- Set Up a Double Boiler:
- Fill a saucepan with a few inches of water and bring it to a simmer.
- Place a heatproof bowl on top of the saucepan, making sure it doesn’t touch the water.
- Melt the Butterscotch Chips:
- Add the butterscotch chips to the heatproof bowl.
- Stir continuously until the chips are completely melted and smooth.
- Remove the bowl from the heat.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- Add Peanut Butter:
- Stir the creamy peanut butter into the melted butterscotch until well combined and smooth.
- Mix in Peanuts and Noodles:
- Add the salted peanuts to the butterscotch-peanut butter mixture.
- Gently fold in the crispy chow mein noodles, being careful not to crush them.
Step 3: Form the Haystacks
- Prepare a Baking Sheet:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper.
- Form Haystacks:
- Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming small mounds (haystacks).
- Make sure the haystacks are evenly spaced and not touching.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Chill the Haystacks:
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the haystacks are firm.
- Serve:
- Once firm, remove the haystacks from the refrigerator.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to eat.
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Melting the Butterscotch: Be careful not to overheat the butterscotch chips as they can become grainy. Stir continuously and remove from heat as soon as they are melted and smooth.
- Mixing: When folding in the chow mein noodles, do so gently to maintain their crispy texture.
- Storage: Store the haystacks in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them firm and fresh.
Variations:
- Keto Version:
- Replace the butterscotch chips with sugar-free chocolate chips or sugar-free butterscotch chips.
- Use a low-carb peanut butter and replace the chow mein noodles with chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch.
- Low-Carb Version:
- Use low-carb peanut butter and low-carb chocolate or butterscotch chips.
- Substitute the chow mein noodles with a low-carb cereal or chopped nuts.
- Chocolate Haystacks:
- Replace the butterscotch chips with semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a chocolate version.
- Nut-Free Version:
- Omit the peanuts and use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for a nut-free alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a microwave to melt the butterscotch chips?
Yes, you can use a microwave. Place the butterscotch chips in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth.
2. What can I substitute for chow mein noodles?
You can substitute chow mein noodles with pretzel sticks, rice cereal, or any other crunchy snack.
3. How long do these haystacks last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these haystacks can last up to two weeks.
4. Can I add other ingredients to the haystacks?
Yes, feel free to add ingredients like mini marshmallows, dried fruit, or additional nuts for extra flavor and texture.
5. Are these haystacks suitable for kids?
Yes, these haystacks are a kid-friendly treat and perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or an after-school snack.
No-Bake Peanut Butter Haystacks are a quick and easy dessert that will satisfy your cravings with their delightful combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for any occasion, these haystacks are simple to make and can be customized to suit various dietary preferences, including keto and low-carb options. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious, no-bake treat that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
