Crispy Bird Nest Cookies
Delightful springtime treats featuring crunchy chow mein noodles shaped into nests and filled with pastel chocolate eggs. Quick and easy to make, perfect for Easter or any festive occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups mini marshmallows (about 6 ounces)
- 4 cups chow mein noodles (about 4.2 ounces)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 24 small pastel chocolate eggs (mini Cadbury or similar)
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Have your pastel chocolate eggs ready nearby.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the softened butter and mini marshmallows. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted (about 2-3 minutes). Alternatively, melt using a double boiler on the stove, stirring constantly.
- Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if using.
- Immediately add chow mein noodles to the melted mixture. Gently fold with a wooden spoon or spatula until all noodles are coated evenly, being careful not to crush the noodles.
- Working quickly, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape into small nests on the prepared baking sheet. Press your thumb lightly into the center to create a hollow space. Repeat until all mixture is used, spacing nests about 1 inch apart.
- Press 3-4 pastel chocolate eggs gently into the center of each nest.
- Let the nests cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes until firm and crisp. Optionally, refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to speed up setting.
Notes
If the mixture hardens while shaping, warm it for 10 seconds in the microwave to soften. Avoid overmixing the noodles to keep nests crispy. Use softened butter for best melting results. Can be made allergy-friendly by substituting coconut oil for butter and vegan marshmallows. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 135
- Sugar: 15
- Sodium: 50
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 3.5
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 1
Keywords: crispy bird nest cookies, springtime treats, Easter cookies, chow mein noodle cookies, chocolate egg cookies, easy dessert, no bake cookies