Easy 3-Ingredient White Ting A Lings: The Ultimate No-Bake Sweet & Salty Holiday Treat
Looking for a delightfully simple, yet incredibly satisfying treat that requires zero baking? Your search ends here with these sensational **White Ting A Lings**. Often known as Haystack cookies or Chinese Noodle Candy, these charming clusters are a family favorite, renowned for their irresistible combination of sweet vanilla candy coating, delightfully crunchy chow mein noodles, and perfectly salted peanuts. With just three basic ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these exquisite no-bake delights in mere minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy holidays, impromptu gatherings, or simply when a craving for something uniquely delicious strikes.
The beauty of these **no-bake Ting A Lings** lies in their effortless preparation. Forget preheating the oven or meticulously measuring complex ingredients. This recipe is all about quick assembly and allowing the treats to set. In fact, the most challenging part of making these festive cookies is patiently waiting for them to firm up before you can indulge! Their ease makes them a perfect activity for kids to help with, introducing them to the joy of making homemade holiday goodies without the complications of baking.
Why White Ting A Lings Will Become Your Go-To Holiday Recipe
These crunchy, sweet, and salty treats aren’t just easy; they’re incredibly versatile and perfect for a multitude of occasions. During the bustling holiday season, when oven space is precious and time is short, **White Ting A Lings** shine as a brilliant solution. They make a fantastic addition to any holiday dessert table, offering a unique texture and flavor profile that stands out from traditional baked cookies.
Beyond the holidays, these **haystack cookies** are excellent for cookie exchanges, bringing a creative and delicious option that everyone will love. They also make thoughtful hostess gifts, delightful additions to school parties, or simply a sweet gesture for anyone on your gift-giving list. Their sturdy nature means they travel well, making them ideal for sharing. Plus, the fact that they are so simple means you can make large batches with minimal fuss, ensuring you always have a stash of homemade treats ready for any event.
Make-Ahead Marvel & No-Bake Convenience
Another fantastic advantage of these **Ting A Lings** is their excellent shelf life. They store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert. If your holiday to-do list seems endless, imagine being able to cross off your dessert prep days in advance! This ability to prepare ahead of time significantly reduces stress during peak entertaining periods. And, of course, the “no-bake” aspect is a true lifesaver. No oven required means you free up valuable oven space for other dishes and avoid heating up your kitchen – a huge plus, especially if you’re preparing a multi-course meal.
If you’re as big a fan of no-bake treats as we are, you’ll be thrilled to discover more delightful options. Consider these other easy, no-fuss recipes: No Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Cookie Bars, classic favorites like Classic Nanaimo Bars, or a luscious No Bake Marshmallow Cheesecake. Each offers its own unique charm and simplicity, perfect for expanding your no-bake repertoire.
Essential Ingredients for Your Ting A Lings Recipe
This recipe truly highlights how just a few simple ingredients can come together to create something spectacular. The key is in the quality and balance of flavors. You’ll find the complete measurements and detailed instructions conveniently located at the bottom of this post in the printable recipe card, but here’s a closer look at what makes these Ting A Lings so special:
- Vanilla Candy Coating or Almond Bark: For this recipe, I opted for white almond bark, which provides a smooth, creamy vanilla flavor and sets beautifully. You can also use a 12-ounce package of vanilla candy coating. Both options melt easily and provide that classic sweet base for our crunchy clusters. When choosing, look for quality brands that melt smoothly without seizing for the best results.
- Chow Mein Noodles: These distinctive cooked, dried, and crispy noodles are the backbone of the “haystack” texture. They provide a wonderful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth candy coating. You’ll typically find them in the Asian food aisle of your local grocery store. Don’t confuse them with soft, stir-fry noodles; we need the crunchy, ready-to-eat variety.
- Salted Peanuts: The salted peanuts are crucial for delivering that irresistible sweet and salty dynamic that makes **Ting A Lings** so addictive. I strongly recommend using only salted peanuts, as seasoned varieties might introduce unwanted flavors. If you find yourself without peanuts, don’t despair! You can easily substitute them with other salted nuts like almonds, cashews, or pecans. Just ensure they are salted to maintain that critical flavor balance.
How to Master This Simple Ting A Lings Recipe
Making these **no-bake Ting A Lings** is incredibly straightforward, perfect for even the most novice of cooks. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time:
- Prepare Your Workspace: First, line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. This crucial step prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup once your treats are set.
- Melt the Candy Coating: In a 2-quart saucepan, gently melt the vanilla candy coating or almond bark over very low heat. Stir continuously until the coating is completely smooth and free of any lumps. Alternatively, you can use a microwave-safe bowl and melt in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the coating to seize.
- Combine Ingredients: Once the candy coating is smooth, remove it from the heat and immediately stir in the chow mein noodles and salted peanuts. Mix gently but thoroughly, ensuring all the noodles and peanuts are well coated with the vanilla mixture.
- Form and Set: Using a rounded teaspoon or a small cookie scoop, drop individual portions of the mixture onto your prepared cookie sheet. Allow them to stand at room temperature until completely set and firm. Depending on your room temperature, this could take an hour or two. For quicker setting, you can place the cookie sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Store: Once fully set, transfer your **White Ting A Lings** to an airtight container. Store them in a cool place, or in the fridge for extended freshness.
Love it? Pin it!
If you’re absolutely smitten with these easy-to-make **White Chocolate Ting A Lings**, make sure you don’t lose track of this fantastic recipe! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board now so you can easily find it whenever you need a quick, delicious, and stress-free treat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ting A Lings
Here are some common questions about making and customizing these delightful **Chinese noodle candy** treats:
What exactly are chow mein noodles in this context?
In this recipe, we refer to the crispy, yellow, pre-cooked, and deep-fried chow mein noodles typically found in the Asian food aisle. These noodles are made from wheat and are known for their distinct crunch, which is essential for the texture of these haystack cookies. They are often used as a topping for salads or soups, but here they form the delightful base of our sweet candy clusters.
Can I make these Christmas Ting A Lings nut-free?
Absolutely! If you’re catering to guests with a nut allergy, you can easily substitute the peanuts with seeds. Salted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds work wonderfully, offering a similar salty crunch without the allergens. Just ensure they are salted to maintain the desired sweet-and-salty balance.
Is it possible to make this Chinese noodle candy gluten-free?
Yes, you can adapt these Ting-A-Lings to be gluten-free. The simplest substitution is to use gluten-free pretzel sticks instead of chow mein noodles. Make sure to break or cut the pretzel sticks into shorter pieces, ideally not more than a few inches long, so they integrate well into the clusters.
Can ramen noodles be used as an alternative to chow mein noodles?
While both are noodle varieties, ramen noodles have a different texture and flavor profile when cooked. I haven’t tested this recipe with ramen noodles, so I cannot guarantee the taste or texture would be comparable. If you can’t find crunchy chow mein noodles, gluten-free pretzel sticks (as mentioned above) or other crispy cereals (see substitutions below) would be a more reliable alternative.
Creative Substitutions and Variations for Ting A Lings
One of the best things about this **Ting A Lings recipe** is how incredibly adaptable it is. Feel free to get creative and customize them to your liking, experimenting with different flavors and textures:
Noodle Alternatives
If chow mein noodles aren’t available or you’re looking for a different crunch, a variety of cereals can be used instead. Try Wheaties, Corn Flakes, or Chex cereals for a similar light and crispy base. You could even use crushed savory crackers for an even more pronounced salty kick.
Candy Coating Transformations
Instead of vanilla candy coating or almond bark, you can use various types of chocolate chips to create different flavor profiles. White chocolate chips will keep them “White Ting A Lings,” but dark, milk, or even semi-sweet chocolate chips offer a richer, more traditional chocolate flavor. For something truly unique, consider butterscotch chips or peanut butter chips. These can either be fully substituted for the vanilla coating or added in along with the vanilla for a marbled or layered effect.
Adding Color and Festive Flair
To add a burst of color to your **Ting A Lings**, incorporate an assortment of colored candy melts. These are available in a rainbow of hues and can be melted just like the vanilla coating. For truly festive Christmas Ting A Lings, stir in red and green sprinkles before the mixture sets, or sprinkle them on top for a delightful holiday look. Edible glitter or a drizzle of contrasting melted chocolate can also elevate their appearance.
Beyond the Basics
Consider mixing in other small, crunchy additions like crushed pretzels, mini marshmallows, or even dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy element. A touch of vanilla extract or almond extract can also enhance the flavor of the candy coating, though it’s optional and depends on your preference.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Ting A Ling Haystacks
Even though this recipe is incredibly simple, a few expert tips can ensure your **ting a ling candy** turns out perfectly every time:
- Ensure Complete Setting: It’s vital that your **chow mein candy** is completely firm and set before you attempt to transfer it or store it. If the chocolate is still even slightly soft, the Ting A Lings will be fragile and can easily fall apart. Patience is key here – if your kitchen is warm, consider placing them in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process.
- Optimal Melting Techniques: While melting the candy coating in a saucepan over low heat is effective, you can also use a double boiler on the stove. This method uses indirect heat, significantly reducing the risk of burning or scorching the chocolate, ensuring a smooth, consistent melt. Another convenient option is using the microwave: place the candy coating in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring thoroughly after each interval, until fully melted and smooth.
- Storage and Shelf Life: These delightful **ting a ling cookies** keep exceptionally well. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week for optimal freshness and crunch. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe airtight container for 3-4 months. When ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes.
- Portion Control: For uniform sizes, use a small cookie scoop (about 1-1.5 tablespoons) to drop the mixture onto the parchment paper. This creates consistent portions, which is great for presentation and ensures even setting.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you’ve added the noodles and peanuts to the melted candy coating, mix just enough to coat everything. Overmixing can break up the noodles too much, diminishing their signature crunch.
More Irresistible Holiday Treats to Love
If you’re expanding your repertoire of easy, festive desserts, especially those with a delightful crunch, here are some other holiday treats that are sure to be a hit:
- Candy Cane Puppy Chow (pictured above) – A festive twist on a classic, perfect for Christmas!
- White Chocolate Strawberry Muddy Buddies – A fruity and sweet variation of a beloved snack.
- Lucky Leprechaun Bait – A fun, colorful snack mix perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any day!
- Mexican Hot Chocolate Chex Mix – A spiced-up, chocolatey treat with a hint of warmth.
- Homemade Moose Munch Popcorn – A gourmet popcorn treat that’s easy to make at home.
With just three simple ingredients, these **White Ting A Lings** are truly the ideal combination of sweet and salty, making them a perfect and highly sought-after holiday treat. These little **haystack cookies** are effortlessly customizable, so don’t hesitate to put your own creative spin on them with different nuts, cereals, or candy coatings. Every family deserves a signature delicacy they can call their own, and these easy, no-bake Ting A Lings are a strong contender for that coveted spot. They embody the joy of simple pleasures and shared moments, making them much more than just a dessert; they’re a tradition in the making.
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Print Recipe
White Ting A Lings
Equipment
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Rubber Spatulas
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13×18 Half Sheet Pan
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Set of 3, Scoops with Trigger, Quick Release Stainless Steel, 3 Pcs (1.5 Tbsp, 2.8 Tbsp and 5.4 Tbsp)
Ingredients
- 1 12 ounce package vanilla candy coating or almond bark
- 1 ½ cups chow mein noodles
- 1 cup salted peanuts
Instructions
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Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
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In a 2 quart saucepan, melt candy coating over low heat and melt the almond bark, stirring until smooth.
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Stir in chow mein noodles and peanuts.
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Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto the cookie sheet and let stand until set.
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Store in an airtight container in a cool place.