These White Chocolate Ting-a-Lings are an irresistible no-bake treat combining crunchy chow mein noodles, salty peanuts, and sweet white chocolate. Perfect for the holidays or as a simple snack, they’re quick to make and easy to customize with your favorite decorations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and salty: A perfect balance of flavors in every bite.
- No-bake simplicity: Ready in minutes with no oven required.
- Customizable: Add sprinkles, candy, or dried fruit to match any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups chow mein noodles (found in the Asian food aisle)
- 2 ½ cups salted cocktail peanuts (or unsalted for a less salty treat)
- 24 ounces white chocolate (such as Candiquik, almond bark, or vanilla almond bark)
- Candy sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
- Spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment or wax paper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crunchy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chow mein noodles and peanuts. Stir gently to avoid breaking the noodles too much.
Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate
Melt the white chocolate in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth. Alternatively, melt in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval to avoid overheating.
Step 3: Coat the Ingredients
Pour the melted white chocolate over the chow mein noodles and peanuts. Stir until everything is evenly coated, working quickly before the chocolate begins to set.
Step 4: Form the Ting-a-Lings
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Shape into mounds or clusters as desired.
Step 5: Add Sprinkles (Optional)
While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle red and green candy sprinkles over each cluster for a festive touch.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the Ting-a-Lings to cool and harden completely at room temperature, or place them in the refrigerator for faster setting. Once set, enjoy or store in an airtight container.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve as a snack or dessert, arranged on a platter or in holiday-themed treat bags.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations
- Chocolate twist: Substitute white chocolate with milk or dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Nut-free: Replace peanuts with pretzel pieces, sunflower seeds, or candy-coated chocolates.
- Festive touch: Mix in mini marshmallows, dried cranberries, or chopped candy canes.
- Sprinkle variety: Use gold, silver, or themed sprinkles for different celebrations.
Helpful Notes
- Use good-quality melting chocolate for smooth, easy coating.
- Work quickly when shaping the clusters to prevent the chocolate from setting prematurely.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Mary Berry: “Be gentle when mixing to maintain the texture of the noodles.”
- Ina Garten: “Choose salted nuts to enhance the flavor contrast with the white chocolate.”
- Ree Drummond: “Add a little vegetable oil to the chocolate if it’s too thick for coating.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Ting-a-Lings store well and can be made days in advance for stress-free entertaining.
Q: What if my white chocolate seizes while melting?
A: Stir in a teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening to help smooth it out.
Q: Can I use another type of noodle?
A: Yes! Try pretzel sticks or rice cereal for a similar crunch.
Q: How can I make these dairy-free?
A: Use dairy-free white chocolate and substitute with allergy-friendly nuts or seeds.
Q: How many Ting-a-Lings does this recipe make?
A: The recipe yields about 24–30 clusters, depending on the size of each mound.
These White Chocolate Ting-a-Lings are a fun, festive, and delicious treat that’s perfect for parties, holidays, or gifting. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they’re sure to become a family favorite!
