Haystack Candy

42 servings Prep: 5 m Cook: 2 m Total: 22 m Beginner
5.0/5 (1)
Haystack Candy
I had forgotten about this old favorite recipe. When my children were younger this was a fast great for holiday candy. The shoestring potatoes and peanuts give this candy its haystack effect, all coated in chocolate and butterscotch chips. They are also known as Easy Chocolate Drops or Chip Stick Peanut Candy. Another reader writes: These candies are great for school functions and giving as gifts for Christmas. Can be done in the microwave or in a double boiler on top of the stove.

Ingredients

42 servings
  • 1 (6 oz) package semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1 (6 oz) package butterscotch chips
  • 1 cup shoestring potato sticks
  • 1 cup salted peanuts

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a 2 quart microwave safe bowl, heat chocolate and butterscotch chips on high for 2 minutes or until melted. Stir at least once during the melting process.
  2. Stir in the potato sticks and peanuts until well coated.
  3. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto wax paper or parchment lined cookie sheets.
  4. Chill until set, about 15 minutes.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why did my chocolate seize up or turn grainy?

A: Make sure no water gets into the chocolate while melting. Even a drop can cause it to seize. Also avoid overheating - use 30-second intervals and stir between each to prevent burning.

Q: Can I use a different type of chip?

A: Absolutely! Milk chocolate, white chocolate, or peanut butter chips all work well. The butterscotch and chocolate combination is traditional, but feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors.

Tips and Techniques

For easier melting, chop larger chocolate pieces into smaller bits before microwaving. If using a double boiler on the stovetop, make sure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the bowl and keep it at a gentle simmer.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • shoestring potato sticks: chow mein noodles or pretzel sticks broken into pieces
  • salted peanuts: cashews, pecans, or almonds
  • semisweet chocolate chips: milk chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips

Equipment Needed

  • microwave-safe bowl (2 quart)
  • cookie sheets
  • wax paper or parchment paper
  • teaspoon
  • double boiler (if using stovetop method)