English Toffee Haystacks Recipe

These no-bake English Toffee Haystack Cookies are an effortless and delicious treat that combines the perfect blend of sweet and salty. Made with crunchy chow mein noodles, salted almonds, and toffee bits, all coated in rich chocolate, these haystacks are as easy to make as they are to enjoy. They’re ideal for holidays, parties, or anytime you need a quick and delightful treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-Bake Simplicity: Minimal prep and no baking required, making them a perfect quick dessert.
• Amazing Texture: The combination of crispy noodles, crunchy almonds, and toffee bits is irresistible.
• Easy to Customize: Substitute or add ingredients like white chocolate or peanut butter for extra flavor.
• Perfect for Gifting: These haystacks are easy to package and make great holiday gifts.

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups chow mein noodles
• 3/4 cup salted almonds, roughly chopped
• 3/4 cup Heath Bits O’ Brickle English Toffee Bits
• 16 oz. chocolate candy coating (or melting chocolate of your choice)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

1. Stovetop Method: Place the chocolate candy coating in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
2. Microwave Method: Place the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted.

Combine Ingredients

3. In a large mixing bowl, add the chow mein noodles, chopped almonds, and English toffee bits. Reserve a small amount of toffee bits for topping.
4. Pour the melted chocolate over the mixture and gently stir with a spatula until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Form the Haystacks

5. Using a spoon, drop portions of the mixture onto a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper, shaping each spoonful into a “haystack” shape.
6. Sprinkle the reserved toffee bits and/or additional chopped almonds on top for extra crunch and decoration.

Cool and Serve

7. Let the haystacks cool at room temperature until the chocolate hardens completely. Once set, enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Heatproof bowl for melting chocolate (or microwave-safe bowl)
• Spatula for mixing
• Wax or parchment paper for setting haystacks

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: These haystacks are perfect for snacking or adding to dessert platters for parties and gatherings.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• Freezing: Freeze haystacks in an airtight container for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Variations

• Peanut Butter: Stir in 1/4 cup of melted peanut butter with the chocolate for a richer, nuttier flavor.
• White Chocolate: Use white chocolate candy coating instead for a different twist on this treat.
• Mixed Nuts: Substitute almonds with a mix of chopped pecans, walnuts, or peanuts for extra nutty flavor.
• Drizzled Chocolate: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the haystacks once they’ve set for a decorative touch.

Helpful Notes and Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, crunchy chow mein noodles and nuts provide the best flavor and texture.
• Avoid Over-Stirring: Stir just enough to coat the ingredients to prevent the noodles from breaking down too much.
• Setting: Let the haystacks cool at room temperature rather than refrigerating to avoid condensation and keep them crisp.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use milk chocolate or dark chocolate instead of candy coating?
Yes! Milk or dark chocolate will work well, though you may need to temper the chocolate to keep it shiny and smooth.

2. Are there any substitutions for chow mein noodles?
You could use pretzel sticks or broken-up graham crackers for a similar texture if chow mein noodles aren’t available.

3. Can I add more toffee bits?
Absolutely! Feel free to add extra toffee bits or sprinkle them generously over the top for added sweetness.

4. How can I make these haystacks more festive for holidays?
Add seasonal sprinkles or colored candy melts for a holiday look. A sprinkle of sea salt on top also adds a great contrast to the sweetness.

5. How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?
If using a microwave, heat in short intervals and stir between each to prevent overheating. For the stovetop method, make sure the bowl is not touching the water below.

These English Toffee Haystacks are a quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the mix of chocolate, toffee, and crunchy noodles—it’s a flavor combination that’s hard to resist!

Print