Gerry's Snickerdoodles - Chow Mein Noodle Candy

24 servings Prep: 10 m Cook: 10 m Total: 20 m Beginner
5.0/5 (1)
A quick and easy no-bake candy made with butterscotch, crunchy chow mein noodles, and salted peanuts—perfect for parties or gift-giving. Just melt, mix, and drop onto wax paper for an addictively sweet and salty treat that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

24 servings
  • 2 (13 oz) packages butterscotch morsels
  • 2 (5 oz) cans chow mein noodles
  • 1 (16 oz) can salted peanuts

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Melt the butterscotch morsels. The easiest way to do this without scorching the morsels is to use a double boiler—put the morsels in one pot, then place the pot into another pot that has water heating in it. Melt over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until completely smooth, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. After the morsels have melted, remove from heat and stir in the chow mein noodles and peanuts until everything is evenly coated with butterscotch.
  3. Working quickly before the mixture hardens, drop by tablespoonful onto parchment paper or wax paper that has been slightly buttered. Let cool completely at room temperature until set, about 30-45 minutes.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why did my butterscotch seize up or get grainy?

A: Butterscotch is sensitive to heat and moisture. Make sure to use a double boiler and keep the heat medium-low. If water or steam gets into the butterscotch, it can seize. Stir gently and don't overheat—once it's melted, remove from heat immediately.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! These store beautifully in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. They're perfect for making ahead for parties or holiday gift boxes. Just make sure they're completely cooled and set before stacking or storing.

Q: Why are my candies falling apart?

A: You may have added too many noodles and peanuts relative to the butterscotch. The butterscotch acts as the glue, so make sure everything gets evenly coated. If the mixture seems too dry, you can gently reheat and add a bit more melted butterscotch.

Tips and Techniques

Work quickly once you add the noodles and peanuts—the butterscotch starts to set up fast as it cools. If the mixture gets too stiff to drop easily, you can place the bowl over warm water for a minute to soften it again. For easier cleanup, use parchment paper instead of wax paper.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • butterscotch morsels: chocolate chips or peanut butter chips
  • salted peanuts: cashews, pecans, or mixed nuts
  • chow mein noodles: crispy rice cereal or pretzel sticks (broken)

Equipment Needed

  • double boiler (or two pots for makeshift double boiler)
  • mixing spoon
  • tablespoon for portioning
  • parchment or wax paper
  • baking sheets