Haystack cookies are a delightful treat that combine a perfect balance of texture and flavor. With their crunchy base of chow mein noodles or oats, coated in sweet, melted goodness, they offer a satisfying bite in every mouthful. Whether you’re a fan of rich chocolate or creamy peanut butter, haystack cookies deliver a unique, no-bake dessert that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious. In this post, we have two irresistible variations—classic chocolate haystack cookies and peanut butter haystacks—so you can enjoy both flavors in one simple recipe collection!
What are Haystack Cookies?
Haystack cookies, also known as coconut clusters or chow mein noodle cookies, are a delightful combination of crunchy chow mein noodles, sweetened coconut flakes, and melted chocolate. The ingredients are mixed together and dropped onto wax paper or parchment paper, then left to set until firm. The result is a cluster of sweet and crunchy goodness that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients:
The beauty of haystack cookies lies in their simplicity. Here are the basic ingredients you’ll need to make a batch:
- Chow mein noodles: These crunchy noodles provide the base and texture for the cookies.
- Sweetened shredded coconut: Adds sweetness and a chewy texture.
- Chocolate chips or melting chocolate: Melts into a smooth and creamy coating for the cookies.
- Optional mix-ins: Feel free to get creative and add extras like chopped nuts, dried fruit, or marshmallows for added flavor and texture.
How to Make Haystack Cookies
For Chocolate Haystacks
Ingredients:
- 24 ounces chocolate chips milk, dark, or semi-sweet
- 2 cups chow mein noodles one large 5 oz. container
- 1 cup peanuts chopped
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Line a baking sheet or countertop with wax paper and set aside.
- Place the chow mein noodles in a large bowl and set aside.In a medium microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips by microwaving for 1 minute at 50% power, then stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second increments, stirring between each round, until the chocolate is smooth. (If some chips don’t fully melt, that’s okay—it won’t affect the final result.)
- Stir in the salt and vanilla until fully combined.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the noodles and chopped peanuts, tossing gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Using two spoons or a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the wax paper and allow them to cool completely.
For Peanut Butter Haystacks
Ingredients
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter, not natural
- 2 cups chow mein noodles (one large 5 oz. container)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Line a cookie sheet with wax paper and set it aside.
- Place the chow mein noodles into a medium-sized mixing bowl and set aside.In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the butterscotch chips and peanut butter. Microwave on 50% power for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15-second increments, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth. (Note: some butterscotch chips may not fully melt, but that’s perfectly fine for this recipe.)
- Stir in the salt and vanilla until well combined.
- Pour the peanut butter mixture over the chow mein noodles, gently tossing until the noodles are fully coated.
- Using two spoons or a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared cookie sheet. Let them cool completely before serving.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about haystack cookies is their versatility. Feel free to customize them to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts such as almonds, peanuts, or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
- Fruity Twist: Mix in dried fruit such as raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots for a burst of sweetness.
- S’mores Inspired: Add mini marshmallows and graham cracker pieces to the mixture for a fun twist on the classic campfire treat.
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Drizzle melted chocolate over the set cookies for an extra dose of chocolatey goodness.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Haystack cookies are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you live in a warm climate, you may want to store them in the refrigerator to prevent the chocolate from melting. Serve them as a sweet treat for parties, gatherings, or as a midday pick-me-up snack.
In conclusion, haystack cookies are a delightful indulgence that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of these sweet and crunchy treats to enjoy anytime. So grab your ingredients and get ready to experience the joy of haystack cookies in your own kitchen!
Chocolate Haystack Cookies
Ingredients
- 24 ounces chocolate chips milk dark, or semi-sweet
- 2 cups chow mein noodles one, 5 ounce container
- 1 cup peanuts chopped
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- pinch salt
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet or countertop with wax paper and set aside.
- Place the chow mein noodles in a large bowl and set aside.
- In a medium microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips by microwaving for 1 minute at 50% power, then stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second increments, stirring between each round, until the chocolate is smooth. (If some chips don’t fully melt, that’s okay—it won’t affect the final result.)
- Stir in the salt and vanilla until fully combined.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the noodles and chopped peanuts, tossing gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Using two spoons or a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the wax paper and allow them to cool completely.
Nutrition
Peanut Butter Haystacks
Ingredients
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter not natural
- 2 cups chow mein noodles one large 5 ounce container
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch salt
Instructions
- Line a cookie sheet with wax paper and set it aside.
- Place the chow mein noodles into a medium-sized mixing bowl and set aside.In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the butterscotch chips and peanut butter. Microwave on 50% power for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15-second increments, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth. (Note: some butterscotch chips may not fully melt, but that’s perfectly fine for this recipe.)
- Stir in the salt and vanilla until well combined.
- Pour the peanut butter mixture over the chow mein noodles, gently tossing until the noodles are fully coated.
- Using two spoons or a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared cookie sheet. Let them cool completely before serving.
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