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Kid-Approved Spider Cookies with Crispy Chocolate Legs

spider cookies - featured image

These spider cookies are a nostalgic Halloween treat made with peanut butter, chocolate, and crunchy chow mein noodles for legs. They’re quick, easy, and perfect for making with kids.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (Skippy or Jif recommended)
  • 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups chow mein noodles
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • Candy eyes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Melt the chocolate and peanut butter together. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely smooth (about 1 minute total).
  2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla. Stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fully combined. The mixture will thicken into a dough-like consistency. If too sticky, add another tablespoon of powdered sugar; if too dry, add a teaspoon of melted butter.
  3. Form the cookie bodies. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart. You should get 18 to 20 cookies.
  4. Insert the spider legs. Break chow mein noodles into pieces about 2 inches long. Gently press four pieces into each side of the dough ball, angling them slightly outward. Leave about half an inch sticking out.
  5. Add the candy eyes. Press two candy eyes into the front of each spider. If the dough is too sticky, dip your fingers in a little powdered sugar.
  6. Let them set. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cookies are firm to the touch. Alternatively, freeze for 5 minutes.
  7. Serve or store. Once set, transfer to a plate or airtight container. Best served cold or at room temperature. Legs stay crunchy for up to 3 days if stored properly.

Notes

Don’t substitute chow mein noodles with crispy rice cereal or pretzel sticks—they get soggy or are too thick. Use creamy peanut butter (not natural) for best texture. Work quickly once dough is mixed as chocolate sets. Refrigerate cookies to set legs firmly.

Nutrition

Keywords: spider cookies, Halloween cookies, peanut butter cookies, chocolate cookies, chow mein noodles, no-bake cookies, kid-friendly