Chocolate Peanut Butter Chow Mein Haystacks Recipe
Introduction
Chocolate Peanut Butter Haystacks are a delightfully simple no-bake treat combining creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and crunchy chow mein noodles. These little clusters are perfect for quick snacks or parties and can be customized with extras like butterscotch chips or salted peanuts for added flavor and texture.
Ingredients
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate, if preferred)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups chow mein noodles (crunchy, from a can)
- 1/2 cup salted peanuts (optional, for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup butterscotch chips (optional, for sweeter flavor)
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until the chocolate mixture is completely smooth.
- Step 2: Stir the peanut butter into the melted chocolate until fully blended and smooth.
- Step 3: Gently fold in the chow mein noodles and salted peanuts, making sure the noodles and nuts are evenly coated with the chocolate mixture.
- Step 4: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the sheet, shaping them into small “haystack” mounds.
- Step 5: Refrigerate the haystacks for 30 to 45 minutes, or until they are firm and set.
- Step 6: Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
Tips & Variations
- Substitute almond butter for peanut butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Add a pinch of sea salt on top of each haystack before chilling to enhance the chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
- Try using dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.
- Mix in mini marshmallows or dried fruit for extra texture and sweetness.
Storage
Store the haystacks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To serve, you can enjoy them cold or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. They do not require reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these without a microwave?
Yes, melt the chocolate and peanut butter in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, stirring constantly until smooth.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, though creamy peanut butter coats the chow mein noodles more evenly. Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture but may make mixing a bit trickier.
PrintChocolate Peanut Butter Chow Mein Haystacks Recipe
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Haystacks are a quick and delightful no-bake treat combining the rich flavors of chocolate and creamy peanut butter with the satisfying crunch of chow mein noodles and optional nuts. Perfect for an easy dessert or snack, they require minimal ingredients and come together in minutes with no baking required.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 20 small haystacks 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate, if preferred)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups chow mein noodles (crunchy, from a can)
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup salted peanuts (optional, for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup butterscotch chips (optional, for sweeter flavor)
Instructions
- Melt the chocolate & peanut butter: Place chocolate chips and butterscotch chips, if using, in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring well between each, until the mixture is completely smooth and melted. Then stir in the creamy peanut butter until fully combined with the chocolate.
- Add the crunch: Gently fold in the crunchy chow mein noodles and salted peanuts, ensuring all pieces are well coated with the chocolate and peanut butter mixture without breaking the noodles.
- Shape the haystacks: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the sheet and shape them into small haystack mounds typical of the treat’s name.
- Chill to set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the haystacks have firmed up completely.
- Serve & store: Once set, enjoy the haystacks immediately or transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness and texture.
Notes
- If you prefer milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet, it will make the haystacks sweeter and creamier.
- Adding butterscotch chips brings a delightful caramel flavor that pairs well with peanut butter.
- For a nut-free version, omit the salted peanuts.
- Make sure to gently fold the noodles to keep them crunchy.
- Store leftovers in the fridge to prevent melting and keep texture crisp.
Keywords: chocolate peanut butter haystacks, no bake dessert, easy chocolate treats, peanut butter snacks, crunchy haystacks
