Christmas Haystacks: A Festive Treat to Share

My grandmother, Nana Elsie, always had a collection of candies during the holidays. Amidst the fudge and divinity, there was always a plate of what she called “Haystacks.” As a child, I loved their slightly irregular shape, and the contrast of the smooth, rich chocolate against the crunchy almonds and chewy cherries. They weren’t just candy; they were a little edible landscape of Christmas cheer, each bite bringing a rush of holiday memories. This recipe brings me right back to Nana Elsie’s kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes (for melting chocolate)
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yields: 20-25 candies
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 10 ounces vanilla chocolate chips
• 1 cup almonds, toasted and coarsely chopped
• ½ cup candied red cherries, quartered
• ½ cup green glazed cherries, quartered
• ½ cup sweetened flaked coconut

Equipment Needed

• Cookie sheet
• Wax paper
• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
• Spatula

Instructions

1. Begin by lining a cookie sheet with wax paper. This will prevent the haystacks from sticking and make them easy to remove once they’ve set.

2. Now, it’s time to melt the vanilla chocolate chips. You can use a double boiler for this, which provides gentle, even heat. Fill the bottom pot with water, bring it to a simmer, and place the top pot with the chocolate chips over the simmering water. Ensure the bottom of the upper pot does not touch the water. Stir occasionally until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the chips in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Be very careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize up and become grainy.

3. Remove the melted chocolate from the heat. If using a double boiler, carefully lift the top pot from the bottom pot, using oven mitts. Now, working quickly, stir in the toasted almonds, quartered red cherries, and quartered green cherries into the melted chocolate. Ensure that everything is well combined, and that the nuts and cherries are evenly distributed throughout the chocolate.

4. Using a tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared wax paper-lined cookie sheet. Try to create slightly irregular shapes, reminiscent of haystacks. Don’t worry about making them perfect; their rustic appearance is part of their charm.

5. While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle the sweetened flaked coconut over the top of each haystack. Gently press the coconut into the chocolate to ensure it adheres well.

6. Place the cookie sheet in the refrigerator to allow the haystacks to firm up. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. They are ready when they are solid to the touch.

7. Once the haystacks are firm, remove them from the refrigerator. Carefully peel them off the wax paper.

8. Store the Christmas Haystacks in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator to maintain their firmness.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Spread the almonds on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden and fragrant. Watch them closely to prevent burning.

• Quality chocolate matters. Using a good quality vanilla chocolate will greatly improve the taste of your haystacks.

• If the chocolate starts to harden while you’re dropping the haystacks, you can gently re-melt it in the microwave in short intervals.

• For a festive touch, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the melted chocolate. The salt enhances the sweetness and adds a wonderful depth of flavor.

• If you don’t have candied cherries on hand, dried cranberries or other dried fruits can be used as a substitute.

• For a richer flavor, use a combination of vanilla chocolate and white chocolate chips.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Christmas Haystacks are best served as a festive treat during the holiday season. Arrange them artfully on a platter alongside other Christmas candies, such as fudge, peppermint bark, or sugar cookies.

Store the haystacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the texture of the chocolate and coconut. There is no need to reheat.

Nutritional Information

Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	130 kcal	7%
Total Fat	9 g	12%
Saturated Fat	4 g	19%
Cholesterol	2 mg	1%
Sodium	42 mg	2%
Total Carbohydrate	11 g	4%
Dietary Fiber	1 g	4%
Sugars	10 g	20%
Protein	2 g	4%

Variations & Substitutions

• Dark Chocolate Haystacks: Substitute the vanilla chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet flavor.

• Nut-Free Haystacks: Omit the almonds and add extra coconut or other safe ingredients like sunflower seeds.

• Peppermint Haystacks: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the melted chocolate and sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top.

• Citrus Haystacks: Add orange or lemon zest to the melted chocolate for a bright, fresh flavor.

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the chocolate for a warmer, more festive flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of nut?
A: Absolutely! Pecans, walnuts, or even macadamia nuts would be delicious alternatives to almonds. Just be sure to toast them for the best flavor.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, these are perfect for making ahead! They store well in an airtight container for several days, making them ideal for holiday preparation.

Q: What if my chocolate seizes up when melting it?
A: Try adding a small amount of vegetable shortening or coconut oil to the chocolate while melting it. This can help restore the smooth consistency.

Q: My coconut is browning too quickly when I sprinkle it on. What should I do?
A: Make sure the chocolate is cooled slightly but not hardened. This will help the coconut stick without overheating it.

Q: Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?
A: Yes, you can, but the haystacks will be less sweet. You may want to add a small amount of powdered sugar to the melted chocolate to compensate.

Final Thoughts

Christmas Haystacks are more than just a simple candy; they are a delightful expression of holiday cheer and a chance to create lasting memories with loved ones. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, this recipe is sure to become a cherished tradition in your home. So gather your ingredients, embrace the festive spirit, and enjoy the process of creating these little edible landscapes. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your variations, and most importantly, share your creations with those you love. Happy Holidays!