Line a large baking sheet or tray with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Make sure the tray fits comfortably inside your refrigerator so the treats can chill without being disturbed.

Measure the cereal, chow mein noodles, and any optional add-ins before melting the butterscotch. Once the mixture is ready, you’ll want to work fairly quickly before it begins to set.

Step 2: Melt the Butterscotch and Peanut Butter

Place the butterscotch chips and peanut butter in a large microwave-safe bowl.

Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Butterscotch chips can become thick if overheated, so use short intervals and rely on stirring to finish melting the remaining pieces.

Alternatively, place the ingredients in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of gently simmering water. Stir continuously until melted and smooth, making sure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water.

Remove the bowl from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.

Step 3: Add the Crunchy Ingredients

Add the crispy rice cereal and lightly broken chow mein noodles to the melted butterscotch mixture.

Using a sturdy silicone spatula, gently fold everything together until the cereal and noodles are evenly coated.

If you’re adding chopped peanuts or shredded coconut, fold them in now.

Work gently to keep the cereal from becoming crushed. The combination of crispy cereal and crunchy noodles gives these treats their signature texture.

Allow the mixture to cool for a minute or two before adding mini chocolate chips so they don’t melt completely.

Step 4: Shape the Crunchies

Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, drop portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.

Shape each portion into a small cluster, gently pressing the mixture together so the ingredients hold their shape.

Don’t worry about making every cluster perfectly round. The irregular shapes give these treats a homemade appearance.

If desired, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt over the tops to balance the sweetness.

Step 5: Chill Until Firm

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for approximately 30 to 45 minutes, or until the clusters are completely firm.

Once set, carefully remove the crunchies from the parchment paper and transfer them to an airtight container.

Keep them refrigerated if your kitchen is warm, or store them in a cool, dry place if the mixture remains firm at room temperature.

Serve them chilled or allow them to sit at room temperature briefly before enjoying.