Noodle Candy: A Sweet & Salty Childhood Delight

My grandmother, bless her heart, wasn’t much of a baker in the traditional sense. Cakes were store-bought, cookies came from a bag, but around the holidays, a curious confection would always appear: Noodle Candy. Its peculiar name belied its addictive quality. The salty crunch of the noodles mingled with the rich sweetness of melted chocolate and butterscotch, a symphony of flavors that transported me back to cozy afternoons spent playing games at her kitchen table. This recipe, though simple, is a tangible link to those cherished memories.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yields: Approximately 24 candies
• Serves: 6-8
• Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 1 (6 ounce) package butterscotch chips
• 1 (6 ounce) package chocolate chips
• 1 (16 ounce) package chow mein noodles
• Chopped nuts (optional) – Walnuts, pecans, or peanuts work well

Equipment Needed

• Double boiler or heatproof bowl and saucepan
• Spoon
• Wax paper or parchment paper

Instructions

1. Prepare your double boiler. If you don’t have one, create a makeshift version by placing a heatproof bowl over a saucepan filled with about an inch of simmering water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water.

2. Add the butterscotch chips and chocolate chips to the double boiler. Stir frequently until completely melted and smooth. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Be patient and keep the heat on low to prevent scorching.

3. Remove the melted chocolate mixture from the heat.

4. In a large bowl, lightly toss the chow mein noodles with the melted chocolate and butterscotch mixture. Ensure the noodles are evenly coated, working quickly as the chocolate will begin to set as it cools. Avoid crushing the noodles.

5. If desired, add chopped nuts to the mixture and gently incorporate them.

6. Drop the coated noodle mixture by teaspoonfuls onto waxed paper or parchment paper. You can make them any size you like, but smaller, bite-sized candies are easier to eat.

7. Chill the candies in the refrigerator until firm. This will usually take about 30 minutes to an hour.

8. Once chilled and hardened, peel the noodle candies off the waxed paper and serve.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Melting Chocolate: The key to perfectly melted chocolate is low and slow heat. Avoid overheating the chocolate, as it can become grainy and seize up. If using a microwave, melt the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring well in between each interval.

• Noodle Prep: Before adding the noodles to the chocolate mixture, gently crush them with your hands. This will create smaller pieces that are easier to coat and eat.

• Nutty Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts. Toasted nuts will add an extra layer of flavor. You can also add dried fruit, such as cranberries or raisins, for a chewy texture.

• Chocolate Choice: While the recipe calls for butterscotch and chocolate chips, you can use any combination of chocolate chips you like. White chocolate, dark chocolate, or even peanut butter chips would all be delicious.

• Salt Enhancement: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the candies before they chill. This will enhance the sweetness of the chocolate and create a more complex flavor profile.

• Uniformity: For more uniform candies, use a small cookie scoop to portion out the mixture.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Noodle candy is best served chilled. Arrange the candies on a platter for a simple yet elegant presentation. These candies are perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a sweet treat to enjoy any time of day.

Store the noodle candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To freeze, place the candies in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last for up to 2 months in the freezer. Let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving. The texture of the noodles may soften slightly after freezing.

Nutritional Information

(Estimated per serving, based on 24 candies from the batch)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	150 kcal	8%
Total Fat	9g	14%
Saturated Fat	5g	25%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	70mg	3%
Total Carbohydrate	17g	6%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	9g	—
Protein	1g	2%

Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations & Substitutions

• Peanut Butter Noodle Candy: Substitute half of the chocolate chips with peanut butter chips for a peanut butter twist.

• Spicy Noodle Candy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the melted chocolate mixture for a spicy kick.

• White Chocolate Cranberry Noodle Candy: Use white chocolate chips and add dried cranberries for a festive holiday treat.

• Dairy-Free Noodle Candy: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. Be sure to check the ingredients list carefully to ensure they are free of dairy.

• Vegan Noodle Candy: This is more difficult as both butterscotch and chocolate chips often contain dairy. Vegan chocolate chips are available. Vegan butterscotch chips are harder to come by, but it is possible to make your own.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of noodle?

A: While chow mein noodles are traditionally used, you can experiment with other types of thin, crispy noodles. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may differ.

Q: My chocolate seized up while melting. What do I do?

A: If your chocolate seizes, try adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening to the chocolate and stirring vigorously. This can sometimes help to smooth it out.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?

A: Yes, noodle candy can be made ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Q: Can I add other toppings besides nuts?

A: Absolutely! Sprinkles, shredded coconut, or mini marshmallows would all be delicious additions.

Q: The chocolate is too thick to coat the noodles. What can I do?

A: Add a teaspoon of melted coconut oil or shortening to thin the chocolate slightly. Be careful not to add too much, or the chocolate may not set properly.

Final Thoughts

This Noodle Candy recipe is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients can create truly memorable treats. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a connection to the past, a celebration of family traditions, and a delicious reminder of the power of a home-cooked treat. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, and perhaps even adapt it to create your own unique version. Share your creations with friends and family, and watch as the joy of Noodle Candy spreads to a new generation! Don’t forget to share your photos and experiences – I’d love to hear how it goes!