No-Bake Peanut Butter Haystacks
My grandma has made these every holiday season as far back as I can remember. As a little girl, I remember how much I absolutely loved them. Aside from their deliciousness, they were kind of like a cross between candy and a cookie and they were so different from the standard Christmas or Easter sugar cookies I was used to seeing everywhere else. Their sweet peanut butter and butterscotch flavor and crunch are nearly irresistible. Growing up, I always assumed that they were tricky or difficult to make, but I was so wrong! It turned out that they’re actually a no-bake confection comprised of only three ingredients, and they couldn’t be simpler to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The ease of preparation here makes these a no-brainer anytime you need a crowd-pleasing cookie, not just during the holidays. They’re made of just three ingredients – four if you want to include peanuts, which are totally optional – and they require no oven at all. The key players here are butterscotch chips, peanut butter, and crispy chow mein noodles, which you can find in the international aisle of your grocery store.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Spoon for stirring
- Baking sheet
- Wax paper
Ingredients
- 1 (11 oz) package butterscotch chips
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 (5 oz) can crispy chow mein noodles
- 1/2 cup salted peanuts (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with wax paper. Set aside.
- In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt together the butterscotch chips and peanut butter, stirring until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in chow mein noodles and peanuts (if using), stirring quickly to coat.
- Working quickly, drop by spoonfuls onto the wax paper. Let cool until set. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Be sure to stir constantly while melting the butterscotch chips and peanut butter to prevent burning.
- Work quickly when adding the chow mein noodles to ensure they are well-coated before the mixture begins to set.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For a chocolate twist, try swapping out some of the butterscotch chips with chocolate chips.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty combination.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: 200 | Fat: 12g | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can substitute crunchy peanut butter for an extra bit of texture.
How do I store the haystacks?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Are there any nut-free alternatives?
If you need a nut-free version, try sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
Conclusion
These No-Bake Peanut Butter Haystacks are the perfect treat to whip up when you want something simple yet satisfying. I invite you to try this delightful recipe and share your experiences in the comments below. Happy no-baking!
