Easter Birds Nest Cookies

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These Easter birds nest cookies are a fun no-bake treat that’s perfect for making with kids or sharing at springtime get-togethers.

Made with melted chocolate and crunchy pretzels, each nest is shaped by hand and filled with pastel candy eggs. They look just like tiny bird nests and come together fast with simple steps.

The mix of smooth chocolate and crispy pretzels gives every bite that sweet-salty crunch everyone loves.

Once they’re set, these little nests are ready to be shared or packed up for an Easter party.

Plus, they’re a great way to spend a relaxed afternoon in the kitchen and are as fun to make as they are to eat.

Table of Contents

Easter Birds Nest Cookies Recipe

Ingredients

200 grams (about 7 oz) milk chocolate, roughly chopped
150 grams (about 5 oz) semi-sweet chocolate, roughly chopped
2 cups thin pretzel sticks or chow mein noodles (broken into shorter pieces)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon honey or golden syrup
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Assorted mini candy-coated chocolate eggs (pastel colors like yellow, blue, pink, and white)
A small amount of icing sugar or powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

Line a large baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Melt the milk and semi-sweet chocolate together in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler method), stirring gently until fully smooth. Alternatively, melt in short bursts in the microwave, stirring between each burst to avoid burning.
Once melted, remove the chocolate from heat and stir in the butter, honey, and vanilla extract until fully combined and glossy.
Immediately add the pretzel sticks (or chow mein noodles) to the chocolate mixture and gently fold until all pieces are evenly coated in chocolate.
Using two spoons or your hands, scoop small mounds of the coated mixture onto the prepared tray. Shape each mound into a nest by pressing a small well into the center with the back of a spoon or your thumb.
While the chocolate is still soft, place 2 to 3 mini candy eggs in the center of each nest. Gently press them so they stick securely.
Allow the nests to set at room temperature for about 1 to 2 hours, or refrigerate them for 20 to 30 minutes until firm.
Once set, dust lightly with powdered sugar for a snowy effect, if desired.
Carefully peel the nests off the parchment and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Tips To Make Perfect Birds Nest Cookies

Here are some tips that actually make a difference when making these cookies:

Use thin pretzel sticks: Thin pretzel sticks look more like real twigs and make shaping the nest easier than thick ones.
Cut pretzels in half: Breaking the pretzels into smaller pieces before mixing with the chocolate helps you shape tighter, neater nests.
Melt chocolate in short bursts: If using a microwave, heat the chocolate in 20-second bursts, stirring between each one, so it doesn’t overheat or turn grainy.
Form nests on parchment paper: Shape your nests directly on parchment paper or a silicone mat so they lift off easily after setting.
Use two spoons to shape: Using spoons to press the chocolate-coated pretzels into a nest shape keeps your hands clean and makes the process faster.
Add eggs before fully setting: Place the candy eggs while the chocolate is still slightly soft so they stick firmly without sliding around.

Fun Variations For Birds Nest Cookies

You can easily change the look and taste of bird’s nest cookies with simple swaps. Here are some fun ways to make them your own:

Use white chocolate or dark chocolate: Try switching the milk chocolate with white or dark chocolate for a new flavor and color.
Try butterscotch chips: Mix in butterscotch chips with your chocolate for a sweeter, caramel-like taste.
Add peanut butter: Stir a spoonful of peanut butter into the melted chocolate for a nutty twist.
Use shredded coconut: Mix shredded coconut with the pretzels to give the nests a more “twiggy” look and extra flavor.
Swap the candy eggs: Instead of candy-coated chocolate eggs, you can use jelly beans or chocolate-covered almonds.
Make mini nests: Make smaller nests for bite-sized treats or larger nests if you want them to hold more eggs.

Can You Make Birds Nest Cookies Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can! Bird’s nest cookies are great to make ahead of time because they keep their shape and stay fresh for a few days.

You can make them up to 3 to 4 days ahead.
Store them in a sealed container at room temperature, and they’ll be ready to enjoy when you need them.
Just make sure to keep them away from heat or sunlight so the chocolate doesn’t melt.

How To Store Birds Nest Cookies?

To keep your cookies fresh and tasty, follow these simple steps:

Use an airtight container: Place your nests in a container with a tight lid to stop them from getting soft or stale.
Layer carefully: If stacking them, place a sheet of parchment or wax paper between layers to stop them from sticking together.
Store at room temperature: Keep them in a cool, dry place for up to 5 days.

If your house is very warm, you can also store them in the fridge, but let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving so the chocolate softens a little.

Can I Freeze Birds Nest Cookies?

Yes, you can freeze bird’s nest cookies if you want to keep them longer.

Freeze on a tray first: Place them on a tray and freeze until firm, about 1 hour, so they don’t stick together.
Store in freezer bags: Once frozen, move them to a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment paper between layers.
Freeze for up to 2 months: They will stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Thaw before serving: Take them out and let them thaw at room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes before eating.