Easy No-Bake Peanut Butter Butterscotch Haystacks
These No-Bake Peanut Butter Butterscotch Haystacks are a ridiculously simple, fast, and delicious treat that brings back happy memories. Made with just a few ingredients, they require zero baking and are perfect for parties, gifts, or a quick sweet fix.
Equipment
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Spatula or Sturdy Spoon
- Baking sheets
- Wax paper or Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter
- 11 ounces butterscotch chips
- 4 cups chow mein noodles Make sure they're fresh and not stale
- 1 cup roasted peanuts (optional, use salted or unsalted)
Instructions
- Step 1: Grab a good-sized microwave-safe bowl. Toss the peanut butter and the butterscotch chips into that bowl.
- Step 2: Pop the bowl into the microwave. Heat in short bursts – think 20 or 30 seconds at a time. After each interval, take the bowl out and give the mixture a really good stir. Keep microwaving and stirring until the mixture is completely smooth, glossy, and totally melted.
- Step 3: Pour the chow mein noodles and the optional roasted peanuts into the bowl with the melted peanut butter and butterscotch.
- Step 4: Gently, but thoroughly, fold everything together using a spatula or a sturdy spoon. Make sure every single noodle and peanut gets coated.
- Step 5: Line a couple of baking sheets or your counter space with wax paper or parchment paper. Using a spoon, drop heaping spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared paper.
- Step 6: Let the haystacks sit out at room temperature until they are completely cool and firm (usually 1-2 hours). Alternatively, refrigerate for about 30 minutes to speed up setting.
- Step 7: Once they're set, carefully peel them off the wax paper. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Notes
Use short microwave intervals and stir frequently when melting to prevent burning. Ensure noodles and peanuts are evenly coated. Allow adequate setting time at room temperature (1-2 hours) or refrigerate for 30 minutes. Store completely set haystacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 weeks. Use wax paper layers to prevent sticking. Try milk or dark chocolate chips instead of butterscotch. Add mini marshmallows, chopped pretzels, or crispy rice cereal for variations.