Saturday, September 20, 2014

Haystacks

Haystacks. The classic, no-fail, delicious, no-bake cookie recipe. There are a few different variations or versions of haystacks. Most are chocolate, some are not. Some have coconut, some oats, some both, and some neither; as some use raw chow mein noodles as their base. Some have a peanut butter flavor, and some contain chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor. No matter what your favorite version is or how you make them, they are quick and easy to whip up. the hardest part is waiting for them to set, but I have discovered they only take a few minutes on a tray in the freezer. And if you absolutely cannot wait, the hot 'dough' is delicious enjoyed straight from the pot as well. 
This version here uses oats as the base, with a little added coconut. If you prefer no coconut, simply use more oats. They get the rich chocolate flavor from a good dose of cocoa powder (feel free to increase the amount). This makes a very small batch (only six large cookies), perfect for an individual batch. Feel free to increase it as necessary, as these disappear quickly and keep well. 

Haystacks
2 Tablespoons butter or margarine
2 Tablespoons cup milk
3-4 Tablespoons cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup granulated (white) sugar
3/4 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

Line a baking sheet with foil. 
In a medium saucepan, bring the butter, milk, cocoa, and sugar to a boil. Remove from heat and quickly stir in oats and coconut. Drop spoonfuls quickly onto prepared baking sheet. Chill until firm, they don't take long. Speed up the process by putting them in the freezer. 

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