Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.3 from 82 reviews

If you are looking for a charming, delightful treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, this Birds Nest Cookies Recipe is an absolute winner. These sweet little nests, bursting with creamy peanut butter, smooth melted white chocolate, and delightfully crispy chow mein noodles, end with a pop of colorful Cadbury Mini Eggs nestled right in the center. Perfect for celebrations, kid-friendly parties, or whenever you want a nostalgic treat that brings a smile, this recipe combines simplicity and irresistible flavor in every bite.

Birds Nest Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Birds Nest Cookies Recipe calls for a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create an irresistible texture and taste. Each component plays an essential role—from the rich, creamy peanut butter to the crunchy chow mein noodles that give the nests their perfect structure and crunch.

White chocolate chips (11 oz): Use quality white chocolate for a creamy sweetness that melts smoothly and binds the ingredients together.
Powdered sugar (2 tbsp): Adds just the right amount of delicate sweetness and helps balance the richness of the chocolate and peanut butter.
Creamy peanut butter (3/4 cup): Offers a smooth, nutty flavor that complements the sweetness and provides moisture to the nests.
Chow mein noodles (8 oz can): These crispy noodles bring a light crunch and create the nest’s signature texture, making each bite uniquely satisfying.
Cadbury Mini Eggs (about 36): Colorful and festive, these eggs sit perfectly in the middle of each nest, adding a playful finish and a burst of chocolate.

How to Make Birds Nest Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Melt and Mix the Chocolate and Peanut Butter

Start by melting your white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, heating for about 1 minute but stopping every 15 seconds to stir. This prevents the chocolate from scorching and ensures a smooth, glossy finish. Then mix in the powdered sugar and creamy peanut butter until the mixture is velvety and well combined. This essential step forms the luscious, sweet base that holds your nests together.

Step 2: Fold in the Crunchy Chow Mein Noodles

Gently pour the chow mein noodles into your chocolate-peanut butter mixture. Using a silicone spoon, fold the noodles in carefully to coat them evenly without breaking their crispiness. This step is all about preserving texture while spreading the rich coating over every crunchy strand—this balance is what makes these nests a standout treat.

Step 3: Shape Your Nests and Add Mini Eggs

Spray a standard muffin tin lightly with nonstick spray and wipe off any excess oil with a paper towel. Scoop a rounded tablespoon of your mixture into each muffin cup and press down to create a nest shape with a little dip in the middle. Place three Cadbury Mini Eggs in each nest, nestling them right in the center. Chill in the fridge for about 20 minutes until set, then carefully pop the cookies out.

How to Serve Birds Nest Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

If you want to add an extra touch of charm when serving your Birds Nest Cookies Recipe, sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar over the top for a “morning dew” effect that makes the nests look even more inviting. You could also drizzle a bit of melted dark chocolate for a delightful contrast or scatter some finely chopped nuts around the plate for extra crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

These cookies shine best on their own but pair exceptionally well with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or a cold glass of milk. Their rich, sweet, and crunchy profile complements most beverages, making your snack time feel special and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, arrange the Birds Nest Cookies Recipe on a platter lined with fresh greenery or edible flowers to mimic a garden setting. They also make adorable edible gifts—place them in clear treat bags tied with pastel ribbons for birthdays or Easter celebrations. Kids love helping with this step, making the whole experience even more joyful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Birds Nest Cookies Recipe will stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep them away from heat and humidity to preserve the crispiness of the chow mein noodles and the integrity of the chocolate coating.

Freezing

If you want to make these beauties ahead of time, they freeze wonderfully. Place them in a single layer on a cookie sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When stored properly, the nests will keep for up to a month without losing their delightful texture and flavor.

Reheating

Birds Nest Cookies don’t need reheating, but if frozen, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This way, the white chocolate coating regains its perfect texture and the nests hold their shape beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, you can! Using crunchy peanut butter will add an extra layer of texture to the nests, which can be a delightful twist. Just be aware it might make the mixture slightly less smooth to work with.

What if I can’t find chow mein noodles?

If chow mein noodles aren’t available, crunchy pretzel sticks broken into small pieces or crispy rice cereal can be used as alternatives. Just make sure they keep a similar crisp texture for that signature nest crunch.

Is it possible to make this recipe nut-free?

Absolutely! Replace the peanut butter with a nut-free butter alternative like sunflower seed butter, and check that your white chocolate doesn’t contain any nut-based traces for safety.

How long do these nests keep their crunch?

Stored properly in an airtight container, the crunchy texture should last for about 3 days at room temperature. Beyond that, the moisture from the air might soften the chow mein noodles.

Can I use other chocolates instead of white chocolate?

Yes! While white chocolate gives that creamy, sweet base, you can experiment with milk or dark chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. Just adjust sweetness accordingly, as darker chocolates tend to be less sweet.

Final Thoughts

I truly encourage you to try this Birds Nest Cookies Recipe soon. It’s a joyful, easy treat that delights every time and brings a playful, nostalgic feel to any occasion. Whether as a homemade gift or a fun family baking project, these colorful, crispy nests are sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe box.