Nutella Stix-N-Stones: A Sweet Symphony of Crunch and Chocolate

I’ll never forget the first time I tasted something similar to these delightful Nutella Stix-N-Stones. My grandmother, a woman who could turn simple ingredients into edible masterpieces, used to whip up a similar treat around the holidays. The blend of crunchy noodles, nutty goodness, and the smooth, rich chocolate coating always evoked a sense of warmth and joy, a feeling I hope this recipe recreates for you. The perfect balance of sweet and salty, crunchy and smooth, this recipe is not just a treat, it’s a memory waiting to be made.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes (for toasting hazelnuts)
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yields: 36 pieces
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1 cup peanut butter chips
• 1 cup Nutella
• 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted & chopped (see instructions)
• 1 cup cocktail peanuts
• 2 cups chow mein noodles

Equipment Needed

• 2 baking sheets
• Aluminum foil
• Microwave-safe bowl (or double boiler)
• Spatula
• Kitchen towel

Instructions

1. Begin by lining two baking sheets with aluminum foil. One sheet will be used for toasting the hazelnuts, while the other will be for setting the Nutella Stix-N-Stones.

2. To toast the hazelnuts, preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (160 degrees Celsius). Spread the hazelnuts in a single layer on one of the prepared baking sheets.

3. Toast the hazelnuts in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are lightly brown and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

4. Remove the toasted hazelnuts from the oven and allow them to cool completely.

5. If your hazelnuts have skins, rub them together vigorously in a clean kitchen towel after they have cooled to remove the skins. This step is optional but helps to improve the overall texture. Once skinned (if desired), coarsely chop the hazelnuts.

6. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and peanut butter chips.

7. Melt the chips in the microwave on medium power for 2 minutes. Be sure to stop and stir every 30 seconds to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can melt the chips in a double boiler over simmering water, stirring constantly until smooth.

8. Once the chips are melted and smooth, add the Nutella to the bowl.

9. Stir the Nutella into the melted chips until everything is thoroughly combined and smooth.

10. Gently fold in the toasted and chopped hazelnuts, cocktail peanuts, and chow mein noodles until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the chocolate-Nutella mixture. Be careful not to crush the chow mein noodles too much.

11. Drop the mixture by heaping tablespoons onto the second prepared baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Space the spoonfuls evenly apart.

12. Allow the Nutella Stix-N-Stones to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened. You can speed up the setting process by placing the baking sheet in the refrigerator for a shorter period.

13. Once the Nutella Stix-N-Stones are firm, carefully peel them off the aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Nutella Selection: Opt for a good quality Nutella for the best flavor.
• Toasting Nuts: Don’t skip toasting the hazelnuts! It brings out their natural oils and enhances their nutty flavor. Toasting also makes them easier to peel if you prefer to remove the skins.
• Melting Chocolate: When melting the chocolate chips in the microwave, use medium power and stir frequently. This prevents the chocolate from seizing or burning.
• Even Distribution: Ensure that the nuts and noodles are evenly distributed throughout the chocolate mixture for consistent flavor and texture in each bite.
• Setting Time: Avoid placing the mixture in the freezer to speed up the process, as this can sometimes make the chocolate bloom, giving it a slightly white appearance. The refrigerator is fine, but room temperature is ideal for the best texture.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these delightful Nutella Stix-N-Stones as a sweet treat for any occasion. They are perfect for parties, snacks, or as a homemade gift. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage, but be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. To thaw, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few hours. There is no need to reheat.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	154.4 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	93 g	61%
Total Fat	10.4 g	15%
Saturated Fat	2.5 g	12%
Cholesterol	0.7 mg	0%
Sodium	31 mg	1%
Total Carbohydrate	12.8 g	4%
Dietary Fiber	1.5 g	5%
Sugars	9.5 g	37%
Protein	3.4 g	6%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Different Nuts: Feel free to substitute other nuts for the hazelnuts and peanuts, such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
• Chocolate Chips: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate or milk chocolate, to change the flavor profile.
• Nut Butter: Substitute the peanut butter chips with almond butter chips or cashew butter chips for a unique twist.
• Vegan Option: While the original recipe contains dairy, you can make a vegan version by using vegan chocolate chips and ensuring your Nutella alternative is vegan-friendly.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the chocolate mixture for a hint of warmth and spice.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-toasted hazelnuts to save time?
A: Yes, you can use pre-toasted hazelnuts. Just make sure they are fresh and haven’t gone rancid. Skip step 2 and 3 in the directions if you use pre-toasted hazelnuts.

Q: What if I don’t have chow mein noodles?
A: You can substitute the chow mein noodles with pretzels, broken into small pieces, or rice cereal for a similar crunchy texture.

Q: How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing when melting it?
A: The key is to melt the chocolate on medium power in the microwave, stirring frequently. Avoid overheating, and ensure that no water gets into the chocolate.

Q: Can I add other mix-ins besides nuts and noodles?
A: Absolutely! Dried fruits, sprinkles, or mini marshmallows can also be added to the mixture for extra flavor and texture.

Q: How long will these Nutella Stix-N-Stones last?
A: Stored properly in an airtight container, these treats will last for up to a week at room temperature or two weeks in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – a simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe for Nutella Stix-N-Stones. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a treat that’s sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the variations and make this recipe your own. I encourage you to give it a try and share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!