Buzzards' Nests
Buzzards' Nests are crispy, sweet treats with a cinnamon-sugar coating and a crunchy cereal center, perfect for snacking or sharing at gatherings with a delightful crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the egg white, vanilla extract, cream of tartar, salt, ground cinnamon, and sugar in a small mixing bowl; beat at high speed with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating until the sugar dissolves.
- Stir in crushed whole wheat cereal.
- Drop by level tablespoons onto a lightly greased cookie sheet.
- Make an indentation in the center of each with your thumb.
- Place 3 peanut candies in each indentation.
- Bake at 275°F (135°C) for 30 minutes, or until set.
- Remove quickly onto a wire rack to cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, make sure to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form before adding sugar. If you don’t have whole wheat cereal, crushed cornflakes or oats can be used as a substitute. To add extra flavor, consider mixing in a dash of almond extract or using coconut flakes for a unique twist. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Buzzards' Nests as a delightful treat during afternoon tea or as a sweet snack. They pair beautifully with Hot Blueberry Tea Bread or a cup of your favorite herbal tea. You can also use them as a fun dessert for kids' parties, offering a unique and colorful addition to a dessert table alongside Frozen Fruit Cake Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Buzzards' Nests in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature, and they’ll be ready to eat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buzzards' Nests contains roughly 2 calories, with 0g protein and 0g carbohydrates.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular flour instead of whole wheat cereal?
Using regular flour is not recommended, as the whole wheat cereal provides the necessary texture and flavor. However, you can use crushed cornflakes or oats as a suitable alternative that maintains the integrity of the recipe.
What can I use instead of peanut candies?
If you need a nut-free option, substitute with chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even mini marshmallows in the center of each nest. This allows for creative variations while keeping the treat delicious and appealing.
How do I know when the Buzzards' Nests are done baking?
The nests are done when they are set and firm to the touch, but still soft inside. They should not be browned. Baking at a low temperature like 275°F allows them to dry out without overcooking, ensuring a chewy texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).