Snack Attack!
Looking for a quick, no-bake treat that satisfies every craving? These sweet and salty haystacks are the ultimate snack-time fix.
Made with crunchy chow mein noodles, creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and a touch of butterscotch, they’re irresistibly good—perfect for parties, after-school bites, or midnight munchies.
Be warned: once you try one, it’s hard to stop!
Ingredients
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup butterscotch chips
1 cup creamy peanut butter
4 cups chow mein noodles
1 cup salted peanuts
Instructions
Line a baking tray with wax paper.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butterscotch chips and peanut butter.
Microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until smooth.
Melt the chocolate separately via microwave using same method.
Add the chow mein noodles and salted peanuts to the melted mixture, stirring until everything is well coated.
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared waxed paper. Drizzle chocolate on top.
Allow the haystacks to cool and set until firm, about 30 minutes to 1 hour
Enjoy your sweet and crunchy treats!
Variations & Tips
For a different flavor profile, try using white chocolate chips instead of butterscotch chips.
You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty combination.
If you’re a fan of coconut, mix in a half cup of shredded coconut for extra texture.
For those who love a bit of spice, a pinch of cayenne pepper can add an unexpected kick to these treats.
How to Store
To keep your Snack Attack haystacks fresh and delicious, proper storage is key.
Once the haystacks have completely cooled and set—typically after 30 minutes to an hour—gently remove them from the wax paper and transfer them to an airtight container.
If you’re stacking them, place a layer of wax or parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
These treats can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place for up to one week.
This keeps them chewy with a satisfying crunch—perfect for snacking straight from the counter.
If your kitchen tends to run warm, especially in summer months, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay firm and fresh for up to two weeks.
Just let them sit out for a few minutes before eating if you prefer a softer texture.
For long-term storage, these haystacks freeze beautifully.
Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1 hour), then transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes.
Whether you’re prepping ahead for a party or hiding a stash for yourself, storing them properly will ensure these sweet, crunchy bites stay just as irresistible as the day you made them.
Variations & Tips
These haystacks are endlessly customizable, making them a great base for experimenting with flavors and textures.
Here are some fun twists and helpful tips to keep things exciting every time you make them:
Flavor Swaps:
White Chocolate Dream: Substitute the butterscotch chips with white chocolate chips for a creamy, sweeter version.
Nutty Twist: Try almond or cashew butter in place of peanut butter for a different nutty profile.
Sweet & Salty Boost: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt or crushed pretzels on top just before they set to enhance the contrast of flavors.
Spiced Surprise: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of cinnamon to the melted mixture for a subtle kick or warm spice note.
Texture Add-Ins:
Coconut Crunch: Stir in ½ cup of shredded sweetened or unsweetened coconut for tropical texture.
Crispy Rice Cereal: Swap out 1 cup of chow mein noodles for crispy rice cereal to mix up the crunch.
Mini Marshmallows: Fold in ½ cup of mini marshmallows for a gooey, chewy surprise in every bite.
Helpful Tips:
Portion Perfect: Use a cookie scoop for uniform haystacks that look tidy and professional.
Cooling Shortcut: Place the tray in the fridge or freezer to help the haystacks set more quickly.
Gift-Ready: Package cooled haystacks in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for cute party favors, holiday gifts, or bake sale treats.
Whether you stick to the original or make it your own, these haystacks are sure to disappear fast—so you might want to double the batch!
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 haystack):
Calories: ~180
Total Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 85mg
Total Carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 13g
Protein: 4g
Note: Nutrition may vary depending on the exact brands and ingredients used.
Adding extras like coconut, marshmallows, or different types of chocolate can change the totals.