Haystacks Party Mix
Haystacks Party Mix offers a sweet and crunchy treat with butterscotch, peanuts, and chow mein noodles, perfect for parties, snacks, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butterscotch chips in a double boiler.
- Mix the chow mein noodles and peanuts together in a bowl.
- Pour the melted butterscotch over the nut and noodle mixture.
- Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Drop teaspoonfuls of the mixture onto wax paper and shape into little haystacks.
- Refrigerate until the butterscotch is hard and the haystacks are set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more textured mix, consider adding shredded coconut or mini marshmallows. If you prefer a nut-free version, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can replace the peanuts. Be sure to work quickly once the butterscotch is melted, as it can cool and harden fast. This treat is reminiscent of other American recipes like Dessert Honey Cookies, making it a great addition to any dessert table.
Serving Suggestions
These haystacks make a delightful party treat or a fun snack. They pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. To elevate your dessert spread, consider serving them alongside Fat City Cinnamon Buns or Crispies Cookies for a varied dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover haystacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving to enjoy their best texture. Avoid freezing as it may alter their consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Haystacks Party Mix contains roughly 987 calories, with 27g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value), protein (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1512mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).
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 chocolate chips instead of butterscotch chips?
Yes, you can substitute chocolate chips for butterscotch chips. This will give the haystacks a different flavor profile, resulting in a chocolatey treat that many will enjoy. Just keep in mind that the melting process may vary slightly depending on the type of chocolate used.
How can I make these haystacks more festive?
To make your haystacks more festive, consider adding colorful sprinkles or using white chocolate drizzle on top. You could also shape them into different holiday-themed designs or use seasonal colored candies to create a fun twist for parties.
What can I use instead of chow mein noodles?
If you can't find chow mein noodles, you can use crispy rice cereal as a substitute. It will provide a different crunch but still hold the mixture together well. Alternatively, pretzel sticks can add a salty flavor that complements the sweetness of the butterscotch.
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).