Chocolate Peanut Butter Chow Mein Haystacks Recipe

Introduction

Chocolate Peanut Butter Haystacks are a delightful no-bake treat combining creamy chocolate, rich peanut butter, and crunchy noodles. These simple, quick-to-make clusters are perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or sharing at gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate, if preferred)
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 cups chow mein noodles (crunchy, from a can)
• 1/2 cup salted peanuts (optional, for extra crunch)
• 1/4 cup butterscotch chips (optional, for sweeter flavor)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place chocolate chips and butterscotch chips (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth.
2. Step 2: Stir in the creamy peanut butter until fully blended with the melted chocolate.
3. Step 3: Gently fold in the chow mein noodles and salted peanuts, ensuring all pieces are well coated with the chocolate mixture.
4. Step 4: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the sheet, shaping each into a small “haystack” mound.
5. Step 5: Refrigerate the tray for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the haystacks are firm and set.
6. Step 6: Serve immediately or store as desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a different texture, try substituting chow mein noodles with crispy rice cereal or crushed pretzels.
• Add a pinch of sea salt on top before chilling to enhance the chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
• Use natural peanut butter for a healthier twist, but adjust sweetness as needed.

Storage

Store chocolate peanut butter haystacks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To enjoy, let them sit at room temperature a few minutes before serving for the best texture. Avoid leaving them out too long as they may soften.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk, dark, or white chocolate chips according to your preference.

Are these haystacks gluten-free?

Traditional chow mein noodles contain wheat, so this recipe is not gluten-free as written. Consider using a gluten-free crispy noodle or cereal alternative to make it suitable.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Chow Mein Haystacks Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 91 reviews

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Haystacks are quick, no-bake treats combining the richness of chocolate and peanut butter with the satisfying crunch of chow mein noodles and peanuts. Perfect for a simple dessert or snack, they require minimal ingredients and preparation time.

• Author: Tim
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 40-55 minutes
• Yield: About 20 haystacks 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Ingredients

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate, if preferred)
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 cups chow mein noodles (crunchy, from a can)

Optional Add-ins

• 1/2 cup salted peanuts (optional, for extra crunch)
• 1/4 cup butterscotch chips (optional, for sweeter flavor)

Instructions

1. Melt the chocolate & peanut butter: Place chocolate chips and butterscotch chips (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
2. Blend in peanut butter: Stir the peanut butter into the melted chocolate mixture until completely combined, creating a smooth, creamy coating.
3. Add the crunch: Gently fold in the crunchy chow mein noodles and salted peanuts (if using), ensuring all pieces are evenly coated with the chocolate-peanut butter mixture.
4. Shape the haystacks: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a spoon to drop small mounds of the mixture onto the sheet, forming ‘haystack’ shapes.
5. Chill to set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the haystacks firm up and are set.
6. Serve and store: Enjoy the haystacks immediately, or keep them stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week for a delicious treat anytime.

Notes

• For a sweeter variation, include the optional butterscotch chips.
• You can substitute crunchy chow mein noodles with crispy rice cereal if desired.
• Ensure the mixture is completely chilled before serving for best texture.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness and crunch.

Keywords: Chocolate Peanut Butter Haystacks, No-Bake Dessert, Quick Snacks, Peanut Butter Treats, Crunchy Chocolate Snacks