Rich, crunchy, and delightfully messy in the best way possible, these Chocolate Peanut Butter Haystacks are a no-bake dream come true. Made with crispy noodles, creamy peanut butter, and glossy melted chocolate, they bring nostalgia and indulgence together in each bite. Whether you’re looking for a fun dessert to whip up for a party or something sweet for your afternoon pick-me-up, this recipe delivers.

They look decadent, but they couldn’t be easier to make. The texture combo of crunchy noodles and silky chocolate is addicting, and the peanut butter adds that perfect nutty hug. It’s the kind of treat you’ll want to keep on hand in the fridge—and one that disappears fast!
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Peanut Butter Haystacks Recipe
These haystacks hit every mark: they’re salty, sweet, chewy, crunchy, and incredibly satisfying. You only need a handful of pantry staples and about 20 minutes of hands-on time. They’re gluten-free (depending on the noodles you use), perfect for potlucks, lunchboxes, or late-night chocolate cravings. Plus, no oven required—just melt, mix, scoop, and chill!
What Kind of Noodles Should I Use?
You can use crunchy chow mein noodles or crispy rice noodles for this recipe. Look for the dry, ready-to-eat kind you’d find in the Asian section of your grocery store. Their light texture holds up well and creates that signature haystack crunch. Want a gluten-free version? Rice noodles are your best friend.
Ingredients for the Chocolate Peanut Butter Haystacks
Each ingredient plays a key role in creating that unforgettable flavor and texture.
Chow Mein Noodles: These bring the signature crunch and hay-like shape. You can also use crispy rice noodles for a gluten-free option.
Creamy Peanut Butter: It acts as the glue that holds everything together and adds that rich, nutty flavor we all crave.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Melted chocolate gives these haystacks their luscious, glossy topping and deep cocoa flavor.
Butterscotch Chips (optional): These add a warm, sweet undertone that pairs perfectly with the peanut butter.
Sea Salt Flakes: A pinch on top enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.
How to Make the Chocolate Peanut Butter Haystacks
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate and Peanut Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and peanut butter. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.
Step 2: Stir in the Noodles
Gently fold the noodles into the melted mixture. Coat them evenly without breaking them too much—you want those long strands for shape.
Step 3: Scoop and Shape
Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop haystack-sized portions onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Shape them a bit with your fingers if needed.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
Sprinkle sea salt flakes or crushed peanuts on top. If you’re using butterscotch chips, you can melt and drizzle them here for a golden touch.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Place the tray in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or until the haystacks are firm. Store them chilled until ready to serve.

How to Serve and Store Chocolate Peanut Butter Haystacks
These haystacks are best enjoyed chilled for that satisfying snap, but they’re perfectly fine at room temperature for a softer bite. Serve them on a platter for parties or stack them in airtight containers for on-the-go treats. This recipe makes about 20 haystacks, feeding 8 to 10 people easily.
Store in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 2 months in a zip-top bag. Just thaw for 10 minutes before serving if frozen.
What to Serve With Chocolate Peanut Butter Haystacks?
Ice-Cold Milk
A classic choice that enhances the creamy chocolate and peanut butter combo.
Fresh Berries
Their tartness balances the richness of the haystacks beautifully.
Coffee or Espresso
A bold cup of coffee is the perfect match for these sweet bites.
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Serve haystacks on the side for a chilled, creamy twist.
Whipped Cream and Banana Slices
Turn them into a mini dessert platter with light toppings and fruit.
Salty Pretzels
Double down on the sweet-salty game with a crunchy pretzel pairing.
Spiced Chai or Hot Chocolate
For cozy evenings, sip on something spiced alongside your haystacks.
Peanut Butter Drizzle
Why not go extra? Melt some peanut butter and drizzle on top just before serving.
Want More No-Bake Dessert Ideas?
If these Chocolate Peanut Butter Haystacks have your sweet tooth singing, try these other easy dessert favorites:
- No-Bake Preacher Cookies for a chocolate-oatmeal classic.
- Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake with a creamy fruit twist.
- Whipped Shortbread Cookies that melt in your mouth.
- Cinnamon Sugar Pizza for a creative treat.
- Banana Bread Cookies if you love banana flavor with a chewy center.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with butterscotch or keep it classic? Add any nuts?
I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are welcome too—let’s inspire each other to get creative in the kitchen.
Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and dessert inspiration on Nora Nosh Recipes Pinterest—you might just find your new favorite sweet bite!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Haystacks
- Total Time: 11 minutes
- Yield: 20 haystacks
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Craving a sweet treat that’s irresistibly crunchy, creamy, and no-bake? These Chocolate Peanut Butter Haystacks are your new go-to! With just a few pantry ingredients and minimal prep, this easy recipe transforms simple noodles and chocolate into a decadent dessert. Perfect for quick dessert ideas, no-bake party treats, or a creative twist on classic peanut butter snacks. Ideal for busy days, holidays, or anytime you want a fun and fast food idea!
Ingredients
2 cups chow mein noodles
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
0.5 cup butterscotch chips (optional)
0.25 teaspoon sea salt flakes (for topping)
Instructions
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth and melted.
2. Fold in chow mein noodles gently, making sure they’re evenly coated without breaking too much.
3. Use a spoon or scoop to drop portions onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Shape slightly if needed.
4. Sprinkle sea salt flakes on top. Optionally, drizzle melted butterscotch chips over the tops.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or until firm. Store in the fridge or freezer.
Notes
Use crispy rice noodles for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
For added texture, mix in chopped peanuts or shredded coconut.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 haystack
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
