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Need a half-hour treat? Check out my simple stovetop haystacks that'll soon become your family favorite! These treats blend crunchy noodles with roasted peanuts, smooth butterscotch and creamy peanut butter. My haystacks vanish from the plate before I've finished making the batch!
What Makes These Outstanding
Trust me when I tell you these stovetop haystacks couldn't be easier! Just four ingredients, no baking, and minimal cleanup afterward. They're perfect when you're running short on time or when summer heat makes kitchen work unbearable. My little ones always jump in to help - though they tend to eat half the ingredients during the process!
Round Up These Items
- Noodles: Crunchy chow mein noodles create that signature texture in our stovetop haystacks.
- Peanuts: Go for the salted variety to add that mouthwatering savory element.
- Peanut Butter: Stick with smooth for the best consistency in these treats.
- Butterscotch Chips: These transform everything with their sweet, buttery flavor.
- Salt: A tiny dash will boost all the other flavors.
Cooking Process Steps
- Heat The Sweet Mixture
- Start your stovetop haystacks by combining butterscotch chips with peanut butter until smooth. I prefer using the microwave in short 30-second bursts, giving it a stir each time.
- Combine Everything
- Now for the fun part! Toss your noodles and peanuts into a big bowl, pour your warm mixture over them, and gently fold until everything's coated.
- Form Your Clusters
- You'll need to move fast for these treats. Scoop spoonfuls onto some parchment paper - don't worry about making them look fancy!
- Cool Them Down
- Let your stovetop haystacks sit in the fridge for around 30 minutes. They'll set up perfectly during this time.
My Secret Tricks
Want amazing stovetop haystacks every single time? Don't use the natural-style peanut butter as it can separate and feel grainy. Once you've mixed all your ingredients, you'll need to work quickly. Try adding a tiny sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost.
Storage Solutions
Your homemade treats will maintain their crunch stored in a sealed container in your fridge for up to seven days. They also freeze wonderfully for up to half a year! Whenever you're craving one, just pull it out and let it warm up naturally.
Great For Gatherings
These stovetop treats always star at my get-togethers - the plate empties faster than anything else! They make wonderful holiday gifts too. Just pack them in cute containers and watch your friends smile when they receive their sweet surprise.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use natural peanut butter?
Stick to peanut butter like Jif or Skippy since they have stabilizers. Natural ones might make the texture too soft to hold their shape.
- → What's the best way to store these?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. For a longer shelf life, store in the fridge—they'll last up to two weeks.
- → Is it okay to swap butterscotch for chocolate?
Definitely, chocolate chips are a perfect swap if you’re not into butterscotch flavors.
- → Why aren’t my haystacks firm enough?
If the mix gets too hot, it won’t set well. Stop heating when most of it is melted and stir the rest until smooth.
- → Can I freeze these for later?
Absolutely! Freeze them in a sealed container for up to three months, and let them sit at room temp before enjoying.