Easter is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a delightful, easy-to-make dessert? These no bake birds nest cookies chow mein are the perfect treat for a quick Easter dessert or a fun activity with the kids. This recipe combines simple ingredients and a clever technique to create adorable and delicious nests that are sure to impress. Get ready to learn how to make these charming cookies and discover the secret ingredient that takes them to the next level!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These no-bake birds nest cookies are more than just cute; they’re incredibly delicious and easy to make. Here’s why you’ll be reaching for this recipe year after year:
Unique Twist: A thin layer of salted peanut butter at the bottom of each nest adds an unexpected but delightful surprise.
Flavor Combination: The salted peanut butter perfectly complements the sweet milk chocolate and butterscotch, creating a balanced and irresistible flavor profile that’s familiar and comforting.
Perfect Texture: You get a wonderful combination of creamy peanut butter, smooth melted chocolate, and crunchy chow mein noodles in every bite.
No-Bake Convenience: Since these cookies require no baking, they’re quick and easy to make, perfect for busy schedules or when you want a treat without turning on the oven.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Making these nests is a fantastic activity to do with kids. They’ll love shaping the nests and decorating them with candy eggs.
Festive Easter Treat: These cookies are the ideal Easter dessert, adding a touch of whimsy to your holiday table.
Ingredients Needed
- 12 ounces milk chocolate chips (I recommend using Guittard or Ghirardelli chocolate chips, do not use Nestle.)
- 12 ounces butterscotch chips
- 12 ounces chow mein noodles
- 36 candy eggs
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Chocolate Chips: I highly recommend using Guittard or Ghirardelli chocolate chips because they melt more smoothly and have a richer, more complex flavor than lower-quality brands. These brands tend to have a higher fat content and better emulsifiers, leading to a superior final product.
Chocolate Substitutions: Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips. Semi-sweet, dark, or even white chocolate chips can be used in place of milk chocolate for a unique flavor.
Candy Eggs: If you don’t have candy eggs on hand, jelly beans, marshmallows, or any other small candies can be used to fill the nests.
Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, make sure to use gluten-free chow mein noodles. Always check the label to confirm.
Nut Butter Options: If you’re not a fan of peanut butter, almond butter or cashew butter can be used as a substitute for the peanut butter layer.
Here is some more information about nut butter options if you’re interested in substituting peanut butter.
Dairy-Free Options: To make this recipe dairy-free, use vegan chocolate and butterscotch chips. Look for brands specifically labeled as dairy-free.
How to Make No Bake Birds Nest Cookies Chow Mein
Let’s get started on making these adorable and delicious birds nest cookies! Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch every time.
Melt the Chocolate and Butterscotch
Place the milk chocolate chips and butterscotch chips in a large, microwave-safe bowl.
Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until completely melted, about 1-2 minutes total. Use 50% power to prevent seizing. I find covering the bowl helps the chocolate melt more evenly.
Stir until the chocolate and butterscotch are glossy and smooth.
For safe microwaving practices, you might find resources from organizations like the FDA helpful.
Coat the Noodles
Add the chow mein noodles to the bowl with the melted chocolate mixture.
Toss gently until the noodles are evenly coated and glistening with the chocolate mixture. Make sure every noodle is covered for the best results.
Shape the Nests
Spread a thin layer of salted peanut butter on a piece of parchment paper where each nest will sit. This helps the nest adhere and adds that delicious peanut butter flavor.
Spoon 2 tablespoons of the cookie mixture onto the peanut butter layer on the parchment paper.
Shape the mixture into a nest, creating a small well in the center.
Top each nest with 3 candy eggs.
Repeat the process with the remaining cookie mixture and eggs.
Set and Serve
Let the nests set until firm. This usually takes about 30 minutes at room temperature, or you can speed up the process by refrigerating them for about 15-20 minutes.
Once the nests are firm, they are ready to serve and enjoy!
Troubleshooting Chocolate Seizing
Chocolate seizing occurs when melted chocolate becomes thick, grainy, and stiff, making it difficult to work with. Here’s how to prevent and fix it:
Prevention: Always use high-quality chocolate chips like Guittard or Ghirardelli, which contain more fat and fewer additives.
Prevention: Ensure no water or steam gets into the chocolate during melting, as even a tiny amount of moisture can cause seizing.
Prevention: Microwave the chocolate in short intervals (30 seconds) at 50% power to prevent overheating.
Fix: If the chocolate seizes, try adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening and stirring vigorously until smooth. The added fat can help to re-emulsify the chocolate.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Pro Tips
Use a microwave-safe bowl for melting the chocolate to avoid any accidents.
Use parchment paper for easy removal of the nests and to prevent sticking.
Don’t overheat the chocolate; melt slowly and stir frequently to maintain a smooth consistency.
Let the nests set completely before serving to prevent them from falling apart.
Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform nest sizes for a consistent look.
Store the finished cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Ensure noodles are fully coated with the chocolate mixture for optimal flavor and texture.
For a richer flavor, use a combination of milk and dark chocolate chips.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using low-quality chocolate chips (like Nestle), which may not melt as smoothly due to lower fat content and added stabilizers.
Overheating the chocolate, causing it to burn or seize.
Not coating the noodles evenly, resulting in dry spots and a less cohesive nest.
Making the nests too thick, which can make them difficult to eat.
Not letting the nests set completely, causing them to be sticky and messy.
Serving & Storage
Serving Ideas
Serve these delightful nests alongside mini egg cookies or peanut butter eggs for a complete Easter dessert platter.
Package them in cellophane bags with ribbons for gifting to friends and family.
Serve with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
Arrange the nests on a decorative Easter platter to showcase their charm.
Sprinkle with edible glitter for extra sparkle and festive appeal.
Add a Peep on top of each nest along with the candy eggs for an extra touch of Easter fun.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their texture and flavor.
To prevent sticking, layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper.
The cookies can be made 1-2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container until ready to serve.
Freezing is not recommended as the noodles may become soft and lose their crunch upon thawing.
Conclusion
These no bake birds nest cookies chow mein are a fantastic addition to your Easter dessert repertoire. They’re quick, easy, no-bake, and utterly delicious. The unexpected peanut butter layer elevates the flavor, making them a unique and memorable treat. This recipe is truly foolproof, perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike. Feel free to experiment with variations or serving ideas to make them your own. Print this recipe and share it with your friends! Or explore our other easy Easter dessert recipes.
If you are looking for another no-bake treat, why not try a strawberries and cream tiramisu?
FAQ
What’s the best way to melt the chocolate chips?
I recommend using the microwave in 30-second intervals or a double boiler. Make sure to stir frequently to prevent burning.
What can I do to prevent the chocolate from seizing?
Use high-quality chocolate, avoid getting any water in the chocolate, and microwave at 50% power in short intervals.
How far in advance can I make these cookies?
You can easily make these cookies 1-2 days in advance.
What’s the best way to store these cookies so they don’t get stale?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness.
Can I substitute other types of candy for the candy eggs?
Absolutely! Jelly beans, marshmallows, or any small candies work great.
How do I get the chow mein noodles to stick together to form a nest?
Ensure the noodles are thoroughly coated in the melted chocolate mixture. This acts as the “glue” that holds the nest together.
Why can’t I use Nestle chocolate chips?
Lower-quality chocolate chips, like Nestle, may not melt as smoothly due to differences in fat content and added stabilizers.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Freezing is not recommended, as the noodles may become soft and lose their desired texture.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Only if you use gluten-free chow mein noodles. Be sure to check the packaging to confirm.
No Bake Birds Nest Cookies: Chow Mein Easter Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the milk chocolate chips and butterscotch chips in a large, microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until completely melted, about 1-2 minutes total. Use 50% power to prevent seizing. I find covering the bowl helps the chocolate melt more evenly.
- Stir until the chocolate and butterscotch are glossy and smooth.
- Add the chow mein noodles to the bowl with the melted chocolate mixture.
- Toss gently until the noodles are evenly coated and glistening with the chocolate mixture. Make sure every noodle is covered for the best results.
- Spread a thin layer of salted peanut butter on a piece of parchment paper where each nest will sit. This helps the nest adhere and adds that delicious peanut butter flavor.
- Spoon 2 tablespoons of the cookie mixture onto the peanut butter layer on the parchment paper.
- Shape the mixture into a nest, creating a small well in the center.
- Top each nest with 3 candy eggs.
- Repeat the process with the remaining cookie mixture and eggs.
- Let the nests set until firm. This usually takes about 30 minutes at room temperature, or you can speed up the process by refrigerating them for about 15-20 minutes.
- Once the nests are firm, they are ready to serve and enjoy!
Notes
