I remember the first time I made Birds Nest Cookies with my kids; the kitchen was filled with laughter and sweet smells. This recipe has been a family favorite, especially around holidays like Easter. It's so easy to make and fun to decorate!
These delightful cookies are not only visually appealing but also incredibly tasty. They are the perfect treat for any gathering, whether it's a family get-together, holiday celebration, or just a cozy weekend at home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days.
- Fun to make with family or friends, especially with kids.
- Delicious combination of chocolate, butterscotch, and peanut butter flavors.
- Eye-catching presentation, making them great for parties and holidays.
These cookies are a delicious way to celebrate special moments. They'll bring joy to your table with their unique flavor and charm.
How To Make Birds Nest Cookies
Making Birds Nest Cookies is simple and requires minimal time. With just a few steps, you can create these delightful treats that everyone will love.
Star Ingredients
- 2 c chocolate chips: A classic choice for sweetness and a creamy texture.
- 1 1/2 c butterscotch chips: Adds a rich, buttery flavor that complements the chocolate.
- 2 1/2 tbsp creamy peanut butter: Binds the ingredients together and adds a nutty taste.
- 5 oz can chow mein noodles: Provides a crunchy texture that mimics a bird's nest.
- Mini Cadbury eggs: These add a fun touch and make the cookies festive.
Simple Assembly
1 – Line a large baking sheet or two small baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside. In a large heat-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. Place into the microwave and heat for 1 minute. Stir the chips, then heat for another minute, or until melted and smooth. Remove the bowl from the microwave and add in the peanut butter. Mix until smooth.
2 – Add the chow mein noodles to the chocolate mixture and mix until well coated. Spoon out 12 piles onto the prepared baking sheet. Make a well in the center. Place 4-5 mini Cadbury eggs into the well, then allow the bird nests to set completely before serving.
You Must Know
Pay attention to the melting process; heating your chocolate and butterscotch slowly ensures a smooth mixture. If the chocolate does not melt completely, give it additional time in the microwave in short intervals. This makes the mixing process much easier.
How To Serve Birds Nest Cookies
These cookies are lovely served at room temperature. They make a delightful dessert after lunch or dinner and are a great snack for kids' parties or holiday gatherings.
How To Store Birds Nest Cookies
Store your Birds Nest Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to one week, making them a great treat to enjoy over several days.
Tips To Make Birds Nest Cookies
For the best results, use fresh ingredients, especially the chocolate and butterscotch chips. Experiment with different types of chocolate or add nuts for extra flavor.
Playful Variations
Feel free to customize your Birds Nest Cookies! Try using white chocolate chips instead of butterscotch for a different flavor or decorating with colored candies during holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What can I use instead of chow mein noodles?
You can use crispy rice cereal or pretzel sticks for a similar crunch. Both options will still give that impressive "nest" effect!
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare these cookies a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container until you're ready to serve.
Are Birds Nest Cookies gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free chow mein noodles, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free. Just double-check your other ingredients to be safe!
How can I make these cookies more festive?
You can add seasonal candies, like pastel M&M's for spring or red and green candies for Christmas! This adds color and fun to your treats.
Can I freeze Birds Nest Cookies?
Yes, they can be frozen! Just make sure they are in an airtight container. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving for the best taste and texture.
Print
Birds Nest Cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes (melting chocolate)
- Total Time: 20-30 minutes (including setting time)
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert, No-Bake Cookies
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Birds Nest Cookies are a delightful treat you can whip up with your loved ones! Perfect for weekends or holiday gatherings. They’re fun to make and taste amazing—just like family should!
Ingredients
2 c chocolate chips
1 1/2 c butterscotch chips
2 1/2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
5 oz can chow mein noodles
Mini cadbury eggs
Instructions
1 – Line a large baking sheet or two small baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside. In a large heat-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. Place into the microwave and heat for 1 minute. Stir the chips, then heat for another minute, or until melted and smooth. Remove the bowl from the microwave and add in the peanut butter. Mix until smooth.
2 – Add the chow mein noodles to the chocolate mixture and mix until well coated. Spoon out 12 piles onto the prepared baking sheet. Make a well in the center. Place 4-5 mini Cadbury eggs into the well, then allow the bird nests to set completely before serving.
Notes
Melting Tips: When melting the chocolate and butterscotch chips, stir frequently to prevent burning. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals after the initial minute, stirring in between. Alternatively, use a double boiler for more controlled melting.
Shaping the Nests: Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to gently press a small indentation in each cookie before placing the Cadbury eggs. If the mixture is too warm, let it cool for a minute to help maintain the nest shape.
Chow Mein Noodle Substitutes: If chow mein noodles aren’t available, you can substitute them with pretzel sticks (for a salty-sweet contrast) or shredded wheat cereal (for a more textured nest).
Setting Time: Let the cookies set at room temperature for about 30 minutes or place them in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to speed up the process. Avoid freezing, as this can cause the chocolate to develop a white film (chocolate bloom).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: ~210 kcal
- Sugar: ~18g
- Sodium: ~50mg
- Fat: ~11g
- Saturated Fat: ~6g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~4g
- Trans Fat: ~0g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Protein: ~3g
- Cholesterol: ~5mg
Keywords: Birds Nest Cookies, no-bake dessert, Easter treats, chocolate butterscotch cookies, easy holiday baking, chow mein noodle cookies, kid-friendly recipe, spring dessert, Cadbury egg nests, fun party treats.