Oh friend… if you’re craving a dessert that hits every note—sweet, salty, creamy, crunchy—and comes together in 15 minutes with no baking, this is your treat. I’m genuinely so happy you’re here because these Peanut Butter Haystacks are one of those nostalgic, crowd-pleasing sweets that disappear fast. They’re easy, fun, and perfect for holidays, potlucks, movie nights, or whenever you need a last-minute dessert.
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What This Recipe Is All About
These classic haystacks combine melted peanut butter and butterscotch chips with crispy chow mein noodles to create addictive little mounds of crunchy goodness. They set quickly, store beautifully, and require zero baking—just melt, mix, drop, chill, and enjoy.
Perfect for beginners, kids, or anyone who needs an effortless win in the kitchen!
Why You’ll Love Peanut Butter Haystacks
- Only 4 ingredients!
- No baking required
- Fast prep and quick setting time
- Sweet, salty, creamy, and crunchy all in one bite
- Perfect for gifting or holiday tins
- Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
What Do They Taste Like?
The sweetness of melted butterscotch meets the rich creaminess of peanut butter, all wrapped around crispy, munchable noodles. Each bite is a perfect mix of smooth and crunchy with a salty-sweet balance that keeps you coming back for “just one more.”
Anything but boring!!
Benefits of This Recipe
- Uses pantry staples
- Perfect for parties or potlucks
- Great make-ahead dessert
- Easy to double or triple
- No stovetop expertise needed
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (11 oz) package butterscotch chips
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 (5 oz) can crispy chow mein noodles
- 1/2 cup salted peanuts (optional)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Spoon or spatula
- Baking sheet
- Wax paper or parchment
- Cookie scoop (optional)
Optional Add-Ins & Substitutions
Add-Ins
- Mini marshmallows
- Pretzel sticks
- Shredded coconut
- Chocolate chips
- Toffee bits
Substitutions
- Use white chocolate chips instead of butterscotch
- Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter
- Add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top
- Use unsalted peanuts and add a pinch of sea salt
How to Make Peanut Butter Haystacks
Step 1 — Prep the Sheet
Line a baking sheet with wax paper or parchment and set aside.
Step 2 — Melt the Base
In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt together:
- Butterscotch chips
- Peanut butter
Stir constantly until smooth and glossy.
Step 3 — Coat the Crunch
Remove from heat. Add:
- Chow mein noodles
- Peanuts (optional)
Stir quickly to coat everything evenly.
Step 4 — Form the Haystacks
Drop spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet.
A cookie scoop makes this extra easy!
Step 5 — Let Them Set
Cool at room temperature or refrigerate for 20–30 minutes until firm.
Then enjoy—crunchy, sweet perfection!
What to Serve With These Treats
- Hot cocoa
- Coffee or espresso
- A dessert board
- Holiday trays or cookie swaps
Tips for Perfect Haystacks
- Melt low and slow—high heat can seize the chips.
- Add noodles gently so they stay crispy.
- Chill if you’re in a hurry, but room temp gives the best texture.
- For neat stacks, use a cookie scoop.
- Add sea salt flakes for a gourmet touch.
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 5 days.
- Refrigerator: Up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months—thaw before serving.
General Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~45 minutes
- Servings: 8–10
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes! It adds great texture.
Why are my haystacks crumbly?
They may need a bit more peanut butter or they cooled too quickly before shaping.
Can I make these nut-free?
Use sunflower butter and skip the peanuts.
Do they melt at room temp?
They stay firm unless it’s very warm—store in the fridge in hot climates.
Conclusion
These Peanut Butter Haystacks are the perfect mix of fun, fast, and delicious. Whether you’re whipping up a holiday dessert, filling a cookie tin, or just treating yourself, they’re the kind of nostalgic sweetness that brings smiles every single time.
If you make them, leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest—seeing your creations truly makes my day!
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: ~260
- Fat: ~16g
- Carbs: ~24g
- Protein: ~5g
Enjoy every crunchy, peanut-buttery bite! 🥜✨
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