These 3-ingredient butterscotch haystacks are so easy and perfect for last-minute holiday gift-giving, combining sweet and crunchy flavors everyone will love. They’re a no-fuss treat that’s ready in minutes!
What is haystack
Haystack is a no-bake cookie made by mixing together ingredients like chow mein noodles, melted butterscotch or chocolate, and often peanut butter. The mixture is then dropped or shaped into small clusters resembling haystacks before being allowed to set and harden.
These cookies are a breeze to make, seriously! They're like the superheroes of desserts, ready to save the day for any occasion. Whether it's a last-minute holiday gift or a planned party, these butterscotch haystacks are the ultimate go-to, quick-fix delights.
For more easy last minutes holiday gift giving cookies try my 3-Ingredients shortbread cookies, 3 Ingredients Peanut Butter Cookies, 2 ingredients bars, 2 Ingredients Chocolate Fudge and 3 Ingredients Cookies & Cream Fudge.
Ingredients
- Chow mein noodles: They are typically found in the Asian or international aisle of most grocery stores. They’re pre-cooked, crispy, and perfect for this no-bake recipe.
- Butterscotch Chips: Butterscotch morsels, also known as butterscotch chips, are small, sweet baking chips made from brown sugar and butter flavors. You can usually find them in the baking aisle alongside chocolate chips.
- Creamy peanut butter: As for the peanut butter, both creamy and crunchy work well, depending on your preference. Creamy peanut butter creates a smoother coating, while crunchy adds an extra layer of texture. If peanut butter isn’t your thing, you can skip it.
How to make 3 ingredients butterscotch haystacks
- Prepare Ingredients: Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper or wax paper for the haystacks to set on.
- Melt Butterscotch Chips: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butterscotch chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until fully melted and smooth. This usually takes around 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave.
- Add Peanut Butter: Once the butterscotch chips are melted, stir in the creamy peanut butter until well combined. Mix until it forms a smooth, uniform mixture.
- Combine with Chow Mein Noodles: Add the chow mein noodles to the butterscotch and peanut butter mixture. Gently fold the noodles into the mixture until they are evenly coated.
- Form Haystacks: Using a spoon or your hands (you might want to lightly grease your hands to prevent sticking), scoop out portions of the mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Shape them into haystacks or clusters, adjusting the size to your preference.
- Set and Cool: Allow the haystacks to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until they are firm and hold their shape.
- Serve or Store: Once set, your butterscotch haystacks are ready to be enjoyed!
Variations
- Chocolate Twist: Replace the butterscotch chips with semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips for a chocolatey version of haystacks.
- Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped peanuts, almonds, or pecans for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Fruity Flavor: Add dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots for a sweet and tangy touch.
- Coconut Infusion: Sprinkle shredded coconut into the mixture for a tropical flavor and extra texture.
- Cereal Swap: Use other crispy cereals instead of chow mein noodles, like cornflakes or rice cereal, to create different textures.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice to the mixture for a warm, cozy flavor.
How to Store and Make Ahead
- Storing Butterscotch Haystacks: Once set, store the haystacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If your kitchen is warm, you can refrigerate them to prevent melting, but bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- Making Ahead: These treats are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare them up to a week in advance, and they’ll stay fresh as long as they’re properly stored. For even longer storage, freeze them in a single layer until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Other recipes to try
📖 Recipe
3 Ingredients butterscotch haystack
These 3-ingredient butterscotch haystacks are so easy and perfect for last-minute holiday gift-giving, combining sweet and crunchy flavors everyone will love. They’re a no-fuss treat that’s ready in minutes!
Print
Pin
Save
Servings: 35 cookies
Ingredients
- 10 oz dried chow mein noodles
- 2 cups butterscotch chips
- 2-3 tablespoon creamy peanut butter
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper or wax paper for the haystacks to set on.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butterscotch chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until fully melted and smooth. This usually takes around 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave.
- Once the butterscotch chips are melted, stir in the creamy peanut butter until well combined. Mix until it forms a smooth, uniform mixture.
- Add the chow mein noodles to the butterscotch and peanut butter mixture. Gently fold the noodles into the mixture until they are evenly coated.
- Using a spoon or your hands (you might want to lightly grease your hands to prevent sticking), scoop out portions of the mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Shape them into haystacks or clusters, adjusting the size to your preference.
- Allow the haystacks to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until they are firm and hold their shape.
Video
Notes
- Storing Butterscotch Haystacks: Once set, store the haystacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If your kitchen is warm, you can refrigerate them to prevent melting, but bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- Making Ahead: These treats are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare them up to a week in advance, and they’ll stay fresh as long as they’re properly stored. For even longer storage, freeze them in a single layer until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
