Butterscotch Haystacks

This easy treat has been around since at least the 1970s — I remember my mother making them! All you need are crunchy chow mein noodles, peanuts, and butterscotch chips. Melt, mix, and drop — that’s it. They’re the perfect sweet-and-salty snack for holidays, cookie trays, or just a quick no-bake dessert when you need something simple and satisfying.

They’re also a fun recipe to make with kids since there’s no oven involved and very little cleanup. The combination of creamy butterscotch, salty peanuts, and crisp noodles creates an irresistible texture and flavor balance that’s stood the test of time.

What You’ll Like About This Recipe

• Fast and foolproof. With a brief microwave melt and just one bowl, this recipe requires minimal prep and cleanup. The candy comes together in minutes and sets quickly, making it ideal for busy days or spontaneous cravings.
• Sweet, salty crunch. The butterscotch chips provide rich sweetness, while the chow mein noodles contribute light, crispy texture. Roasted peanuts add crunch and a savory edge that keeps the candy from becoming overly sweet.
• Perfect for gifting or parties. These little clusters are easy to portion, transport, and package. They hold their shape well and look festive on dessert trays or inside treat bags.
• Customizable ingredients. You can swap the peanuts, mix in other add-ins, or adjust the coating to noodle ratio depending on how crunchy or candy-coated you prefer your haystacks.
• Kid-friendly and fun to make. This is a great recipe for young cooks—no stovetop required, and the mixing process is playful and hands-on.

Ingredient Notes

• Butterscotch chips – These melt into a smooth, sweet coating that binds the noodles and nuts. Choose a brand you enjoy; flavor can vary from buttery to caramel-like.
• Shortening or oil – A small amount helps the chips melt smoothly and prevents the mixture from becoming too thick. Coconut oil also works and adds a subtle flavor.
• Chow mein noodles – The classic crunchy noodles provide the “haystack” texture. They should be added gently to avoid crushing them.
• Roasted peanuts – Salted peanuts add a welcome contrast to the sweetness. Unsalted peanuts work too if you prefer a milder balance.

Steps to Make Chow Mein Candy (Haystacks)

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper so the candies release easily once they set.
2. Place the butterscotch chips and your chosen fat in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in short intervals and stirring often to melt the mixture gently and prevent scorching.
3. Fold in the chow mein noodles and peanuts, mixing carefully so the noodles stay mostly intact while becoming fully coated.
4. Scoop small mounds onto the prepared sheet using two spoons and shape lightly if needed.
5. Refrigerate or let stand until the candies become firm and hold their shape.

Pro Tips

• Use gentle heat when melting the chips; overheating will cause the mixture to seize or become grainy.
• Stir thoroughly after each microwave interval—chips often melt from residual heat rather than full cooking.
• Add noodles last to prevent crushing and keep the haystacks tall and textured.
• Chill briefly for fast setting, especially if your kitchen is warm.
• Adjust ratio of noodles to coating depending on how thick or delicate you like your candy.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate-butterscotch mix. Replace part of the butterscotch chips with chocolate chips for a milder, more balanced sweetness.
• No-nut version. Omit the peanuts or replace them with sunflower seeds or extra noodles for those avoiding nuts.
• Festive haystacks. Add mini marshmallows, colored sprinkles, or chopped pretzels for seasonal or holiday versions.
• Peanut butter haystacks. Stir a spoonful of peanut butter into the melted chips for a creamier, richer coating.
• White chocolate version. Swap butterscotch chips for white chocolate chips to create snowy-looking clusters with a different flavor profile.

How to Store

• Refrigerate: Keep the candies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. They maintain their crunch best when chilled or kept in a cool environment.
• Freeze: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a container or freezer bag. Store for up to 2 months and thaw briefly before serving.

Chow Mein Candy (Haystacks)

Diana Rattray

This simple vintage recipe for chow mein candy is made with 3 ingredients plus a little oil!

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Servings 36 servings

Calories 132

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Candy

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 3 minutes minutes

Total Time 8 minutes minutes

Ingredients

  

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• 2 cups butterscotch chips
• 1 teaspoon shortening, margarine, or vegetable oil
• 3 cups chow mein noodles, (about 6 ounces)
• 1 cup roasted peanuts

Instructions

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• Prepare the Surface: Line a baking sheet with wax paper or parchment paper.
• Melt: Place the butterscotch chips and shortening or oil in a large microwave-safe bowl. Heat on 50% power for 30 seconds, then stir. Repeat, stirring after each 30 seconds until the mixture is melted and smooth.
• Combine: Add the chow mein noodles and peanuts and stir to coat thoroughly.
• Drop and Let Cool: Using 2 spoons, scoop and drop mounds on the prepared baking sheet. Chill until set.
  

Nutrition

Calories: 132kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 4gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 178mgPotassium: 32mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 9IUCalcium: 4mgIron: 1mg

Disclaimer:

Our nutritional information is based on a third-party application that analyzes the ingredients list to determine the values. The information is meant to be helpful, but should be considered an estimate. Values may differ depending on measurements, brands, serving variations, and database availability.

Keyword butterscotch, chow mein candy, haystacks

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