Here is a simple and fun recipe you can make with kids or friends.
INTRODUCTION
Birds Nest Easter Desserts are small candy nests made with crunchy noodles, melted chocolate, and sweet eggs. These treats look like tiny bird homes. They fit well on a plate for a party. They take little time to make. You can change the candy and chocolate to match what you like.
This recipe uses common pantry items. It is quick, and it makes a bright, cheerful snack for spring. If you like easy holiday sweets, you might also enjoy other dessert ideas for spring that are simple to make. The nests are fun to drop by hand, so children can help without using hot ovens. You get sweet treats that look special with very little work.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this recipe because it is fast, easy, and fun. The touch of crunchy noodles makes each bite light. The chocolate and peanut butter bind the nest together. Candy eggs add color and a sweet finish. You can make many nests in one batch and share them at a party.
This recipe keeps well and travels well. You can put nests in small boxes or bags to hand out as favors. It does not need baking, so you avoid long oven time. The recipe works with things you already have at home. You can use milk or dark chocolate for a richer taste. To find more simple sweets that do not need an oven, see this page of easy no-bake desserts for more ideas.
HOW TO MAKE Birds Nest Easter Desserts
Making these nests is a small mix and drop task. You melt chocolate and butter, add peanut butter, then fold in crunchy noodles. Spoon the mix into nest shapes on paper. Add candy eggs to the center. Let them cool to harden.
The recipe gives a clear order so your nests set right the first time. Work near your fridge if you want the chocolate to set faster. Keep the chocolate warm but not too hot while you add peanut butter. If the noodles lose their crunch, add them last and be gentle when stirring.
For other simple dessert steps and help with kitchen technique, you can read more about quick desserts on this desserts category page that shows many easy recipes.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
- Wooden spoon or heat-proof spatula
- Baking sheet or tray
- Parchment paper or wax paper
- Tablespoon or small cookie scoop
- Plate or cooling rack
These tools keep the work neat. A small saucepan lets you melt chocolate slowly on low heat. A spoon or scoop helps shape the nests the same size. Parchment paper makes it easy to lift the nests without sticking.
Ingredients You’ll Need :
2 cups of chow mein noodles, 1 cup of chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of peanut butter, 1 cup of mini eggs or jelly beans, 1 tablespoon of butter
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
- In a saucepan, melt the chocolate chips and butter together over low heat. Stir until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter until fully combined.
- Add chow mein noodles to the mixture and stir until evenly coated.
- Using a spoon, drop clusters of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, forming nests.
- Before they set completely, place mini eggs or jelly beans into the center of each nest.
- Allow to cool and harden at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.
HOW TO SERVE Birds Nest Easter Desserts
Serve these nests on a clean plate or a small tray. Place a few paper doilies or green paper grass under them to look like a spring nest. You can stack them in a shallow basket for a casual table display. If you give them as gifts, set three to five nests in a small clear bag and tie with a ribbon.
For a party, place small signs that say “Birds Nest Treats.” Keep the nests at room temperature while serving so they do not sweat. If it is very warm, keep them refrigerated until you are ready to serve, then bring them out 10 minutes before eating so the chocolate softens a bit.
To see more sweet ideas for holiday treats, have a look at other simple recipes in the desserts category that pair well with these nests.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Birds Nest Easter Desserts
Store the nests in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for up to five days. If your room is warm, store them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Place parchment paper between layers so they do not stick together.
To freeze, put nests in a single layer on a tray and freeze until firm. Then move them to a freezer bag or box with parchment between layers. You can keep them frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge for an hour or at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving. Use a gentle hand so the candy eggs do not crack while thawing.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Pair the nests with fresh fruit like strawberries or orange slices for a bright plate.
- Offer a small glass of milk or a warm cup of tea for balance.
- Serve on a spring-themed platter with some edible flowers or mint for color.
- Use different colored mini eggs to match your party theme.
- Place a small card next to the nests that lists the ingredients for guests with allergies.
If you plan a full dessert table, set the nests near other small bites like cookies or simple cupcakes. For more desserts that match this theme, check the dessert collection that gives ideas for a full spread.
VARIATIONS
- Nut-free: Replace peanut butter with sun butter or a seed butter for a nut-free version.
- White chocolate: Use white chocolate chips instead of milk or dark chocolate for a sweet, bright nest.
- Coconut nests: Add a few tablespoons of shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
- Pretzel crunch: Mix in small pretzel pieces for salty crunch.
- Fruit twist: Top each nest with a small piece of dried fruit along with the candy eggs for a natural touch.
These small changes let you match the dessert to diet needs or your taste. Try one change at a time until you find the mix you like most.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular noodles instead of chow mein noodles?
A: It is best to use crispy chow mein noodles. Regular cooked noodles will make the nests soft and not hold their shape.
Q: Can I skip the peanut butter?
A: Yes. You can skip it, but peanut butter adds flavor and helps the mix hold together. If you skip it, add a little extra butter or a touch of corn syrup to help bind the mix.
Q: How do I stop the chocolate from burning when I melt it?
A: Melt slowly on low heat and stir often. You can also melt the chocolate in short bursts in the microwave, stirring between each 10–15 second burst.
Q: Can I make the nests vegan?
A: Yes. Use dairy-free chocolate chips, a vegan butter substitute, and a plant-based nut or seed butter. Use vegan candies for the eggs.
Q: Will the nests melt in hot weather?
A: They will soften if it is very warm. Keep them in the fridge until you serve them if you expect hot temperatures.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Birds Nest Easter Desserts
Make the nests a day or two before your event and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. If you need to make them a week ahead, freeze them as described above. Bring frozen nests to the fridge one day before the event to slowly thaw, or set them on the counter for a short time before serving.
If you want to prepare parts ahead, melt the chocolate and peanut butter and store the mix in the fridge. Reheat gently and stir before adding the chow mein noodles. You can also portion the candy eggs in small bags so you only open them when you are ready to finish each nest. This saves time on the day of your event and lets you work in short bursts.
Birds Nest Easter Desserts
Ingredients
Method
- In a saucepan, melt the chocolate chips and butter together over low heat. Stir until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter until fully combined.
- Add chow mein noodles to the mixture and stir until evenly coated.
- Using a spoon, drop clusters of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, forming nests.
- Before they set completely, place mini eggs or jelly beans into the center of each nest.
- Allow to cool and harden at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.