Haystack Cookies

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Golden, gooey, and delightfully crunchy—Haystack Cookies are the no-bake treat you didn’t know you needed. These retro confections mix crispy chow mein noodles with a velvety peanut butter butterscotch coating for a sweet-salty combo that satisfies every craving in one bite. They’re as fun to make as they are to eat, and the best part? No oven required.

Whether you’re whipping these up for a bake sale, a family get-together, or a last-minute holiday tray, Haystack Cookies are an easy crowd-pleaser that come together in just minutes. With their charmingly messy appearance and addictive texture, they disappear faster than you can say “just one more.”

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Why You’ll Love This Haystack Cookies Recipe

• No-Bake Simplicity: No oven, no problem. A stovetop (or even a microwave) gets the job done in minutes.
• Irresistible Texture: Crunchy, creamy, and just a little chewy. Each bite is loaded with contrast.
• Perfect for All Occasions: Holidays, potlucks, or a cozy movie night snack—these cookies fit in anywhere.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Great for getting little hands involved in the kitchen, with no sharp tools or hot pans.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Making Haystack Cookies is straightforward, but having the right tools on hand will make the process even smoother:

• Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for evenly coating your chow mein noodles without crushing them.
• Medium Saucepan or Microwave-Safe Bowl: Use this to melt together the butterscotch chips and peanut butter. A double boiler works too, especially if you’re concerned about scorching.
• Rubber Spatula: Perfect for folding everything together while being gentle on the noodles.
• Baking Sheet Lined with Parchment Paper: This is where your haystacks will rest and firm up. The parchment ensures easy release.
• Spoon or Cookie Scoop: To portion out consistent haystacks without the mess.

With these tools, you’re just a melt-and-mix away from bite-sized bliss.

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Ingredients for the Haystack Cookies

Every ingredient in Haystack Cookies plays a key role in achieving that sweet-crunchy magic:

• Butterscotch Chips: These provide the rich, buttery sweetness that defines the flavor profile. Melting them is what binds the whole cookie together.
• Creamy Peanut Butter: Adds a salty, nutty balance to the butterscotch, plus helps create that luscious texture.
• Chow Mein Noodles (Crispy, Uncooked): The star crunch element! Their nest-like shape and light crispness are what make these “haystacks.”
• Optional: Salted Peanuts or Mini Marshmallows: For a little extra crunch or chew if you want to personalize the mix.

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How To Make the Haystack Cookies

Step 1: Melt the Base

In a medium saucepan over low heat (or microwave in 30-second bursts), melt the butterscotch chips and peanut butter together. Stir constantly until smooth and fully combined. Be careful not to overheat, as butterscotch can scorch easily.

Step 2: Mix in the Crunch

In a large mixing bowl, add the chow mein noodles. Pour the melted butterscotch-peanut butter mixture over the noodles. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold the mixture until every noodle is evenly coated.

Step 3: Form the Haystacks

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop portions of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Aim for small mounds, about 2 tablespoons each, spaced slightly apart.

Step 4: Let Them Set

Allow the haystacks to cool and firm up at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, pop the tray into the refrigerator for quicker setting.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once firm, transfer them to an airtight container or serve immediately. They keep well and taste even better the next day!

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How to Serve and Store Haystack Cookies

Haystack Cookies are best served once they’ve had time to fully set. Present them on a dessert platter for parties, stack them in festive tins for gifting, or keep them in a jar on the counter for anytime snacking.

To store, place the cookies in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. If layering, separate with parchment paper to prevent sticking. These cookies can also be frozen—just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Haystack Cookies take to set?

At room temperature, they usually set in about 30–45 minutes. You can speed this up by placing them in the fridge for 15–20 minutes.

Can I use chocolate chips instead of butterscotch?

Absolutely! Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips work great for a twist on the original. You can even do half chocolate, half butterscotch for a balanced flavor.

Are these gluten-free?

It depends on your noodles. Some chow mein noodles contain wheat, so be sure to choose a certified gluten-free version if needed.

Do Haystack Cookies need to be refrigerated?

Not unless you live in a very warm climate. They’re shelf-stable for several days, but refrigeration can help them last longer or set faster.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or candy?

Definitely! Chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or even holiday sprinkles are all fun additions to customize your haystacks.

Can kids help make these?

Yes! Since there’s no baking involved, this is a great recipe for kids with adult supervision during the melting process.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these sweet-and-salty Haystack Cookies, check out these other delicious cookie creations from my kitchen:

• Simple Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies for a tangy-fruity bite.
• Brown Sugar Maple Cookies with deep autumn notes.
• Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups if you want peanut butter in a different form.
• Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake for a wild, gooey dessert experience.
• Quick and Easy Fudgy Chocolate Brownie Cookies when you crave extra chocolate.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Find more cozy no-bake and dessert recipes I share daily on Pinterest at Kitchen By Kate.

Let me know in the comments how your Haystack Cookies turned out! Did you add peanuts, marshmallows, or keep it classic? I’d love to hear your twist. And feel free to ask questions—we’re all about baking better together.

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