Easter is a time for fun and creativity in the kitchen, especially when it comes to making festive treats. These Easter Bird’s Nest Cookies are not only adorable but also simple enough for kids to help make. With a few basic ingredients and a little imagination, you can create these cute and tasty treats to enjoy with your family and friends during the Easter season.
Ingredients for Easter Bird’s Nest Cookies
For the Cookies:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Nest Topping:
- 2 cups chow mein noodles
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup butterscotch chips
- Mini candy eggs or jellybeans
How to Make Easter Bird’s Nest Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
Step 2: Shape the Cookies
- Roll the cookie dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each ball, creating a nest shape.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Nests
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips together in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth and melted.
- Add the chow mein noodles to the melted chocolate mixture and stir until well coated.
- Use a spoon to scoop some of the noodle mixture onto each cookie, shaping it into a nest.
- Place a few mini candy eggs or jellybeans in the center of each nest to complete the look.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chocolate has set, serve your Easter Bird’s Nest Cookies and enjoy the delicious combination of sweet, crunchy, and chocolatey flavors!
About the Main Ingredients
Chow Mein Noodles
Chow mein noodles are used to create the nest-like appearance of these cookies. They add a crunchy texture and are coated in the melted chocolate and butterscotch mixture to hold the nest together.
Chocolate and Butterscotch Chips
The combination of chocolate and butterscotch chips creates a sweet and flavorful coating for the chow mein noodles. When melted together, they create a smooth and creamy texture that holds the noodles together to form the nests.
Mini Candy Eggs or Jellybeans
These small candies are placed in the center of each nest to mimic bird eggs. They add a pop of color and a fun Easter touch to the cookies.
Butter and Sugar
These ingredients are used to create the cookie dough base. They add flavor and sweetness to the cookies and help to hold them together.
Egg and Vanilla Extract
The egg and vanilla extract add richness and flavor to the cookie dough. They help to create a tender and flavorful cookie base for the nests.
By following this simple recipe, you can create adorable Easter Bird’s Nest Cookies that are perfect for celebrating the holiday with your loved ones. Get creative with your decorations and enjoy making these fun and delicious treats!