Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This treat combines creamy peanut butter, crunchy noodles, and sweet butterscotch chips for an unexpectedly delicious snack or dessert. It’s a no-bake recipe that’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute cravings or gatherings. The textures and flavors meld together wonderfully, offering a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 2 cups crunchy chow mein noodles
- Optional toppings: Crushed peanuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Melt the Butterscotch Chips: Place the butterscotch chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth and fully melted.
- Combine with Peanut Butter: Stir in the peanut butter with the melted butterscotch chips. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
- Add Crunchy Noodles: Gently fold in the crunchy chow mein noodles, ensuring they’re well-coated in the mixture.
- Shape and Chill: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a lined baking sheet, forming small clusters. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes until set.
- Serve: Optionally, top with crushed peanuts or drizzle with melted chocolate before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 clusters
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Add marshmallows: For a gooey texture, mix in mini marshmallows before forming clusters.
- Use dark chocolate: Swap butterscotch chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for an unexpected kick.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep the clusters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: To store for longer, freeze the clusters on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
FAQs
1. Can I use smooth peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, smooth peanut butter works well, but creamy peanut butter gives the best texture.
2. Can I substitute the chow mein noodles for something else?
You can substitute with pretzel sticks, rice cereal, or cornflakes for a different crunch.
3. How should I store the clusters?
Store them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
4. Can I make these without butterscotch chips?
Yes, chocolate chips or caramel bits are great substitutes for butterscotch chips.
5. How do I prevent the clusters from getting too soft?
Refrigerating the clusters is key to keeping them firm. Ensure they are fully set before serving.
6. Can I use salted peanuts in this recipe?
Yes, salted peanuts add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the butterscotch.
7. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?
Crunchy peanut butter would work, though the texture will be slightly different with added bits of peanuts.
8. Can I add more chocolate?
Absolutely! You can drizzle melted chocolate over the clusters or mix it in for extra richness.
9. How long do these keep in the fridge?
They’ll stay fresh for about 1 week in the fridge.
10. Can I add a spice like cinnamon or nutmeg?
Yes, a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm, flavorful twist.
Conclusion
These creamy peanut butter clusters with crunchy noodles and butterscotch are an easy, fun treat to make and enjoy. With minimal ingredients and no baking required, they come together quickly for a satisfying snack or dessert. Plus, they’re customizable, so feel free to get creative with your toppings and variations!
Print
Creamy Peanut Butter with Crunchy Noodles
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy no-bake recipe combines creamy peanut butter, crunchy noodles, and sweet butterscotch chips to create irresistible clusters. Perfect for quick snacks or desserts, these treats offer a delightful balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors. Customize with toppings like crushed peanuts or melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 2 cups crunchy chow mein noodles
- Optional toppings: Crushed peanuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate
Instructions
- Melt the Butterscotch Chips: Place butterscotch chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth and fully melted.
- Combine with Peanut Butter: Stir in the peanut butter until fully mixed and smooth.
- Add Crunchy Noodles: Gently fold in the crunchy chow mein noodles, making sure they’re well-coated with the mixture.
- Shape and Chill: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a lined baking sheet to form small clusters. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes until set.
- Serve: Optionally, top with crushed peanuts or drizzle with melted chocolate before serving.
Notes
- You can use smooth peanut butter instead of creamy for a slightly different texture.
- For more crunch, try substituting chow mein noodles with pretzel sticks, rice cereal, or cornflakes.
- If you like a spicy kick, add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne to the mix.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
