Cornflake Candy Recipe

Irresistibly Crunchy Cornflake Candy Recipe for Sweet Snackers

Crunchy and sweet cornflake candy captures the essence of nostalgic treats with a delightful twist.

Clusters of golden cereal merge with gooey marshmallow magic in this simple dessert.

Small kitchen adventures often yield the most memorable results.

Sugar and butter create a rich, glossy coating that binds each crispy morsel.

Childhood memories flood back with every bite of this irresistible confection.

Minimal ingredients and quick preparation make this recipe a go-to for spontaneous snack cravings.

Whip up a batch and watch smiles spread faster than the candy disappears.

Cornflake Candy: Crunchy Sweetness You’ll Love

  • Savor Simple Ingredients: Enjoy a treat made with just a few pantry staples like cornflakes, peanut butter, sugar, and corn syrup, ensuring you can create this delightful candy without a complicated shopping list.
  • Craft Quick Confection: Prepare this sweet snack in mere minutes, making it perfect for sudden cravings or last-minute dessert needs without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Embrace Nostalgic Crunch: Rediscover a classic no-bake candy that brings back childhood memories with its satisfying combination of sweet, sticky coating and crispy cornflake texture.
  • Customize with Ease: Experiment by adding chocolate drizzles, chopped nuts, or different nut butters to make this recipe uniquely yours, offering endless variation possibilities.

Ingredients for Cornflake Candy

For the Sweeteners:
  • Sugar: A primary sweetening agent that dissolves and helps bind the candy ingredients.
  • Corn Syrup: Provides additional sweetness and creates a smooth, glossy texture for the candy.
For the Nut Butter:
  • Peanut Butter: Adds rich, creamy flavor and helps hold the candy together with its natural oils.
For the Base:
  • Cornflakes: Provides a delightful crunch and serves as the main structural component of the candy.

Making Perfect Cornflake Candy

Step 1: Prepare Syrup Base

Grab a large saucepan and heat it over medium temperature. Pour corn syrup and sugar into the pan, stirring constantly until the sugar completely melts and blends smoothly with the syrup.

Watch the mixture transform into a glossy, golden liquid that promises delicious sweetness.

Step 2: Blend Creamy Peanut Mixture

Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in peanut butter.

Whisk until the peanut butter melts completely and creates a silky, uniform sauce. The rich, nutty aroma will start filling your kitchen with mouthwatering fragrance.

Step 3: Coat Crispy Cornflakes

  • Cornflakes
  • Peanut butter mixture

Pour the warm peanut butter sauce over cornflakes in a large mixing bowl. Gently fold and toss the ingredients using a spatula, ensuring every single cornflake gets a perfect, even coating.

The mixture should look glossy and completely integrated.

Step 4: Shape Delightful Clusters

Use a spoon or your hands to scoop and shape the mixture into bite-sized clusters.

Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing each piece to cool and set. The clusters will harden into crunchy, sweet treats that everyone will love.

Step 5: Cool And Serve

Let the cornflake clusters sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. They’ll firm up and become delightfully crisp.

Store in an airtight container for maximum freshness and enjoy your homemade sweet sensation.

Tips to Perfect Cornflake Candy

  • Lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray when shaping the candy to avoid sticking.
  • Swap regular peanut butter with crunchy or natural peanut butter for added texture and richer taste.
  • Reduce corn syrup slightly if you prefer less sweet treats or use honey as a partial replacement.
  • Keep cornflake candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, separating layers with parchment paper to maintain crispness.
  • Use gluten-free cornflakes and sunflower seed butter for a nut-free, allergy-friendly version that everyone can enjoy.

Fun Variations on Cornflake Candy

  • Chocolate Chip Crunch: Replace cornflakes with crushed chocolate chip cookies for an extra sweet, rich flavor profile.
  • Nutty Sensation: Mix in chopped almonds or walnuts with cornflakes to add extra texture and nutty depth.
  • Coconut Crisp: Sprinkle shredded coconut into the mixture for a tropical-inspired version with added crunch and sweetness.
  • No-Bake Trail Mix: Incorporate dried fruits like raisins and sunflower seeds alongside cornflakes for a more nutritious snack option.

Pairing Ideas for Cornflake Candy

  • Pair with Creamy Coffee Complement: Brew a rich, smooth latte or cappuccino that balances the sweet crunch of cornflake candy with its velvety texture.
  • Enhance with Cold Milk Companion: Pour a chilled glass of whole milk to create a nostalgic dessert experience that softens the candy's crisp edges and provides a cool contrast.
  • Match with Nutty Bourbon Twist: Select a bourbon with caramel and vanilla notes that harmonizes with the peanut butter's richness and echoes the candy's sweet profile.
  • Serve Alongside Vanilla Ice Cream: Crumble the cornflake candy over a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful textural combination of smooth and crunchy elements.

How to Store Cornflake Candy Properly

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days, placing wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep the container sealed to maintain freshness and crunch.

Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months without losing texture or flavor.

Keep in a sealed container away from direct sunlight and heat. Consume within 2-3 days for optimal taste and crispiness.

Warm gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power to restore softness. Avoid overheating to prevent melting or losing the cornflake’s signature crunch.

FAQs

  • Why use cornflakes in this candy recipe?

Cornflakes provide a delightful crunch and texture, creating a unique contrast with the sweet and creamy peanut butter mixture.

  • Is this recipe good for kids?

Yes, it’s a simple no-bake treat that kids can help make and enjoy, with minimal cooking required.

  • Can I substitute peanut butter with another spread?

Absolutely! Almond butter or sunflower seed butter work well as alternative options for those with peanut allergies.

  • How long does this candy stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these candies remain fresh for about 5-7 days.

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Cornflake Candy Recipe

Cornflake Candy Recipe


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4.7 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 14 minutes
  • Yield: 24 1x

Description

Sweet nostalgia meets crunchy delight in this classic Cornflake Candy, blending childhood memories with irresistible flavor. Golden cornflakes meld with gooey marshmallow and peanut butter, creating a treat you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients (Texture and Bulk):

  • 6 cups cornflakes

Sweeteners:

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup corn syrup

Binding and Flavor Ingredient:

  • 1 cup peanut butter

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and corn syrup, stirring continuously until sugar completely dissolves and mixture becomes smooth, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  2. Remove from heat and immediately incorporate peanut butter, whisking until the mixture achieves a uniform, glossy consistency.
  3. Transfer cornflakes into a large mixing bowl and carefully pour the warm peanut butter mixture over them, gently folding with a spatula to ensure every cornflake is evenly coated.
  4. Line a rectangular baking dish with parchment paper and spread the cornflake mixture, pressing firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula to create a compact layer.
  5. Allow the candy to set at room temperature for 30-45 minutes until it firms up and becomes slightly crisp around the edges.
  6. Once cooled and solidified, slice into bite-sized squares using a sharp knife, creating clean, uniform pieces.
  7. For optimal texture and flavor, serve at room temperature and store in an airtight container to maintain crunchiness.

Notes

  • Swap peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter for nut-free versions, ensuring everyone can enjoy this sweet treat.
  • Use gluten-free cornflakes to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, without compromising the crunchy texture.
  • Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for faster setting and a firmer candy that’s easier to cut into clean, precise squares.
  • Experiment with adding dark chocolate drizzle or crushed nuts on top for extra flavor complexity and visual appeal.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 24
  • Calories: 191
  • Sugar: 13 g
  • Sodium: 70 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
Ethan Caldwell

Ethan Caldwell

Founder & Culinary Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-table cooking, Seasonal recipe creation, Culinary storytelling, Food photography and styling​

Education

The Chef’s Academy (Indianapolis, IN)

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Focused on sustainable cooking practices, regional American cuisine, and recipe development.​

Ethan didn’t just fall in love with food, he grew into it, surrounded by fields, farmers’ markets, and family meals that told a story.
After sharpening his skills at The Chef’s Academy, he took his passion straight into the farm-to-table movement, working side-by-side with local growers and seasonal flavors.
He believes every recipe should feel like a walk through a summer market: colorful, fresh, and full of possibility.
Outside the kitchen, Ethan’s idea of a perfect day is hiking mountain trails, digging into heirloom vegetables, and hosting casual dinners where seconds are always encouraged.

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