No-Bake Butterscotch Haystacks

These No-Bake Butterscotch Haystacks are a nostalgic favorite that combines the crunch of broken chow mein noodles with the rich, creamy sweetness of melted butterscotch and peanut butter chips. The addition of shortening ensures the mixture stays pourable and sets with a perfect snap, rather than becoming too hard. They require no oven time, making them an ideal quick dessert for potlucks, school events, or satisfying a sudden sweet tooth. The contrast between the salty-savory noodles and the caramel-like coating creates a complex flavor profile that is both comforting and addictive. Serve them chilled for the best texture, and enjoy the simple satisfaction of this homemade candy.

Cooking Method: Microwave

Cuisine: Global

Courses: Desserts

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 24

Calories: 234.0

Dietary: Vegetarian

Description

These No-Bake Butterscotch Haystacks are a nostalgic favorite that combines the crunch of broken chow mein noodles with the rich, creamy sweetness of melted butterscotch and peanut butter chips. The addition of shortening ensures the mixture stays pourable and sets with a perfect snap, rather than becoming too hard. They require no oven time, making them an ideal quick dessert for potlucks, school events, or satisfying a sudden sweet tooth. The contrast between the salty-savory noodles and the caramel-like coating creates a complex flavor profile that is both comforting and addictive. Serve them chilled for the best texture, and enjoy the simple satisfaction of this homemade candy.

Ingredients

1 cup Butterscotch Chips
0.5 cup Peanut Butter Chips
1 tablespoon Shortening
1.5 cups Chow Mein Noodles, coarsely broken

Directions

1
Line a baking sheet or large tray with wax paper or parchment paper.
2
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the butterscotch chips, peanut butter chips, and shortening.
3
Microwave on HIGH (100%) for 1 minute, then stir well.
4
If necessary, microwave in additional 15-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chips are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
5
Immediately add the broken chow mein noodles to the melted chip mixture.
6
Stir quickly and thoroughly to coat all the noodles evenly with the chocolate mixture.
7
Drop the mixture by heaping teaspoonfuls onto the prepared wax paper-lined tray.
8
Allow the haystacks to stand at room temperature until they begin to firm up.
9
If they do not firm up sufficiently, cover and refrigerate until set and firm.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 24

Amount Per Serving
Calories 234.0kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 7.8g12%
Saturated Fat 4.8g24%
Cholesterol 16.2mg6%
Sodium 7.8mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 39.0g13%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 37.2g
Protein 1.8g4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Storage: Store in a tightly covered container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent melting in warm weather.

Ingredient Tip: Do not substitute butter, margarine, or oil for the shortening, as this can affect the setting texture and may cause the haystacks to become too hard or seize.

Variation: To make Chocolate Haystacks, substitute 1 cup of semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips for the butterscotch chips. Proceed with the same method using peanut butter chips, shortening, and chow mein noodles.

Yield: This recipe makes approximately 2 dozen candies, depending on the size of the teaspoonfuls.

Keywords: butterscotch, haystacks, no-bake, chow mein, noodles, peanut butter, candy, dessert, microwave, chips, treats, snack, crunchy, sweet, easy, quick, homemade, potluck, party food, comfort food

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/no-bake-butterscotch-haystacks/