Crispy Chocolate Haystacks (Easy No Bake Chow Mein Cookies)
These no-bake chocolate haystacks combine crispy chow mein noodles, sweet shredded coconut, and melted chocolate for a nostalgic, crunchy treat that’s ready in under 20 minutes. Perfect for bake sales, holiday tins, or a quick dessert fix.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 24 haystacks 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 6 oz chow mein noodles (about 3 cups)
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (about 1/8 tsp)
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
- Optional: 1 cup mini marshmallows
- Optional: 3/4 cup butterscotch chips (swap half of the chocolate chips)
- Optional: 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper. Set out all ingredients and equipment.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and butter. Microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring after each, until melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt using a double boiler over gently simmering water.
- Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt into the melted chocolate mixture.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss together chow mein noodles and shredded coconut. Add any optional mix-ins (nuts, marshmallows, etc.) and stir to distribute.
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the noodles and coconut. Gently fold with a spatula until evenly coated, being careful not to crush the noodles.
- Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop mounds of the mixture onto the lined baking sheet, spacing about 1 inch apart. Aim for about 24 haystacks.
- Let the haystacks set at room temperature for 10 minutes, or refrigerate for 10 minutes to speed up.
- Once firm, transfer haystacks to an airtight container for storage. Enjoy!
Notes
Work quickly to prevent the chocolate from hardening before shaping. If chocolate seizes, add a teaspoon of coconut oil and stir gently. For gluten-free or vegan versions, use appropriate noodles and chocolate. Haystacks can be customized with nuts, marshmallows, or dried fruit. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 haystack
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10
- Sodium: 40
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 2
Keywords: chocolate haystacks, no bake cookies, chow mein cookies, easy dessert, coconut cookies, kid friendly, holiday treats, bake sale, quick dessert, crunchy cookies