Butterscotch Haystacks
Satisfy your sweet tooth with homemade butterscotch haystacks candy. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup. Try it today!
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.
Why You’ll Love Them
Quick and easy. No baking required — just melt, mix, and chill.
Crunchy and sweet. The mix of chow mein noodles, peanuts, and butterscotch is pure nostalgia.
Perfect for sharing. Great for cookie platters, gifts, or last-minute party treats.
Ingredient Notes
- Butterscotch chips: The classic base for haystacks; melt gently for a smooth coating.
- Chow mein noodles: Provide crunch and structure — don’t substitute soft noodles.
- Peanuts: Roasted and salted peanuts balance the sweetness perfectly.
- Shortening or oil: Helps the melted chips stay smooth and glossy.
Steps to Make Chow Mein Candy (Haystacks)
- Prepare the surface. Line a baking sheet with wax paper or parchment paper.
- Melt the chips. Combine the butterscotch chips and shortening or oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts at 50% power, stirring until smooth.
- Mix it all together. Add the chow mein noodles and peanuts and stir gently until evenly coated.
- Form the candies. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Chill and enjoy. Let the candies set completely — refrigerate briefly if needed.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate twist. Replace half of the butterscotch chips with semisweet chocolate chips.
- Festive version. Stir in colored sprinkles or mini M&M’s for holidays.
- Nut-free. Skip the peanuts and use sunflower seeds or pretzel pieces instead.
- Peanut butter version. Substitute peanut butter chips for a richer flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as part of a cookie tray or dessert platter.
- Add to gift boxes or wrap individually in wax paper for sharing.
- Pair with coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
How to Store Chow Mein Candy
Room temperature: Store cooled candy in an airtight container with wax paper between layers for up to 1 week.
Refrigerate: If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate for up to 3 weeks to keep the candy crisp.
Freeze: Not recommended, as thawing may affect texture.
Chow Mein Candy (Haystacks)
Ingredients
- 2 cups butterscotch chips
- 1 teaspoon shortening, margarine, or vegetable oil
- 3 cups chow mein noodles, (about 6 ounces)
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
Instructions
- 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
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.
