Jelly Bean Noodle Nests

These no-bake noodle nests are a classic Easter craft project that doubles as a treat. Chow mein noodles get coated in melted marshmallow and butter (think Rice Krispies treat technique), shaped into little bird nests, and filled with colorful jelly beans that look like tiny eggs. Kids go wild for them.

The marshmallow mixture needs to be smooth before you pour it over the noodles. Stir constantly over medium heat and don’t rush it. Lumpy marshmallow means unevenly coated noodles that won’t hold their shape.

Butter your hands before shaping. The marshmallow mixture is impossibly sticky, and bare hands will turn into a frustrating mess. Form round balls first, then press a hollow in the center with the back of a spoon. Work quickly because the mixture firms up fast as it cools.

Kitchen Tips

• Let the nests firm up completely before adding the jelly beans. Placing them in too early and they sink into the soft marshmallow.
• Use crunchy chow mein noodles, not the soft kind. They need to hold their structure to look like actual twigs in a nest.
• Grease the cookie sheet well or use parchment paper. Even with buttered hands, these stick to everything.

Variations

• Use chocolate chips melted with a tablespoon of coconut oil instead of marshmallow for a chocolate nest version.
• Fill with mini chocolate eggs, malted milk ball eggs, or Jordan almonds instead of jelly beans.
• Add a few drops of green food coloring to the marshmallow for mossy-looking nests.