No Bake Bird's Nest Cookies

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These No Bake Bird's Nest Cookies are a fun, festive treat that's as adorable as it is delicious. Made with crispy chow mein noodles coated in a rich butterscotch-peanut butter mixture and topped with colorful chocolate mini eggs, they're the perfect no-fuss dessert for springtime, Easter celebrations, or anytime you want a sweet and crunchy bite. No baking required, and they come together in just minutes!

No Bake Bird's Nest Cookies are a fun and festive Easter treat made with butterscotch and peanut butter mixture and topped with chocolate mini eggs. | aheadofthyme.com

Bird's nest cookies are one of my favourite Easter cookies to make (my Easter Egg Sugar Cookies and Italian Easter Cookies are up there too!). The combination of butterscotch chips and smooth peanut butter creates an irresistible sweet and salty coating that perfectly hugs each crunchy noodle. Plus, they are quick to make, with no oven time and minimal cleanup - perfect for baking with kids or whipping up a last-minute treat or gift.

Why You'll Love these No Bake Bird's Nest Cookies

Adorably festive. With their nest shape and candy eggs, these cookies are a guaranteed hit at spring parties and Easter gatherings. They look impressive but are so easy to make! The playful appearance adds charm to any dessert spread, and they're a delightful project to make with kids or for themed celebrations.
Sweet and salty perfection. The mix of butterscotch and peanut butter offers a rich, balanced flavor that pairs beautifully with the crunch of the chow mein noodles and sweetness of the chocolate eggs. Each bite delivers a perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory that satisfies every craving.
No baking needed. These cookies set up quickly at room temperature or in the fridge, making them a great choice for quick treats or warm-weather days when you don't want to turn on the oven. You'll save time without sacrificing flavor or presentation.
Kid-friendly and fun. Kids can help mix, scoop, and decorate the nests with mini eggs, making this a fun and interactive kitchen activity for all ages. The simple, hands-on process makes this a great way to involve little ones in holiday prep.

Ingredient Notes

To make these festive No Bake Bird's Nest Cookies, you will need the following ingredients (full measurements in recipe card below):

chow mein noodles - this is the base of the nests, adding crunchy texture and a fun shape.
Crunchy pretzel sticks or cornflakes can be used for a similar effect if chow mein noodles are unavailable.
butterscotch chips - these are melted down to create a sweet, caramel-like flavor. You can also use chocolate or white chocolate chips can instead for a different flavor profile.
peanut butter - we use smooth peanut butter which adds creaminess and balances the sweetness with a touch of saltiness. You can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture. For nut allergies, use sunflower seed butter or a nut-free alternative.
chocolate mini eggs - this classic Easter candy that completes the nest look. Pastel M&Ms or jelly beans also work well for decoration.

You will also need a large mixing bowl, a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl for melting, and a 12-tin muffin pan for shaping and setting the nests.

How to Make the Best No Bake Bird's Nest Cookies

Melt butterscotch and peanut butter. In a wide saucepan, add the butterscotch chips and peanut butter. Heat over low heat until melted, whisking continuously until melted. Alternatively, melt in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between each interval until smooth and combined.

Add noodles. Pour the butterscotch-peanut butter mixture into a large mixing bowl and add the chow mein noodles. Stir until the well combined and the noodles are fully coated.

Assemble. Add a spoonful of the batter into each compartment of a 12-tin muffin pan and fill it up. (Note, to make it easier to remove the cookies when set, use a silicone muffin tray or line your muffin tray with cupcake liners).

Add mini eggs. Place 3 chocolate mini eggs in the centre of each nest.
Set. Let the nests cool completely, about 1-2 hours, then carefully remove from the muffin pan and serve.

Recipe Variations

Make it nut-free. Use sunflower seed butter or a nut-free spread to accommodate allergies.
Add a twist. Stir in a handful of shredded coconut or chopped pretzels for extra texture and flavor.
Make them bite-sized. Use a mini muffin tin to create smaller nests that are perfect for parties or snack trays.
Add chocolate. Drizzle melted chocolate over the nests once they're set, or stir mini chocolate chips into the mixture for an extra indulgent layer.

How to Serve

These Birds Nest Cookies are delicious served on their own as a sweet treat this spring, or paired as part of a larger Easter dessert spread with some of our favorites including:

For more recipes, see our 30 Best Easter Desserts.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Melt gently. Use low heat when melting the butterscotch chips and peanut butter to avoid scorching. Stir continuously and remove from heat as soon as the mixture is smooth and glossy to preserve the best texture and flavor.
Work quickly. The mixture sets fast, so shape the nests right after mixing. Have your tools, parchment paper, and chocolate eggs ready before combining the ingredients so you can move swiftly without stress.
Use a spoon or your fingers. Grease your hands lightly if shaping by hand to avoid sticking. You can also use two spoons to form the nests, especially if working with warm mixtures that need gentle handling.
Let them set. Allow the nests to firm up at room temperature or pop them in the fridge for faster results. They'll be ready to serve once firm to the touch, typically within 30-60 minutes depending on room temperature.

Storing and Freezing Instructions

How to Store

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keep them cool to avoid melting.

How to Freeze

Place the set nests in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQ

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can absolutely make bird's nest cookies ahead of time! These cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for several days, so they're great for planning ahead. If you want to prepare them even earlier, they also freeze beautifully. Just let them thaw at room temperature before serving. Because they don't require refrigeration or delicate handling, they're ideal for prepping in advance for holidays, parties, or school events.

What if I can't find chow mein noodles?

If you can't find chow mein noodles, don't worry - there are a few great substitutes you can try. Crunchy pretzel sticks broken into small pieces mimic the nest shape and texture quite well. Cornflakes also work as a base, giving a slightly different crunch and flavor. Even shredded wheat can be crushed and molded into a nest shape. While the look and texture might differ slightly, the end result will still be delicious and fun to eat.

Can I use a microwave to melt the mixture?

Yes, using a microwave is a quick and easy way to melt the butterscotch chips and peanut butter. Simply place both ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat it-this can cause the mixture to seize or burn. Once everything is melted evenly, proceed quickly to coat the noodles and form your nests before the mixture begins to set.

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