If you’re searching for a simple, nostalgic treat that never fails to spark joy, Cornflake Candy is about to become your new favorite kitchen project. Imagine the satisfying crunch of classic cereal blanketed in a peanut butter caramel hug — all without even turning on the oven! This recipe creates bite-sized, golden morsels that are lusciously sweet, perfectly peanutty, and irresistibly chewy. Whether you’re whipping up an after-school snack, satisfying a late-night craving, or creating a party platter centerpiece, Cornflake Candy brings out the kid in everyone and fits any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 cups cornflake cereal
How to Make Cornflake Candy
Step 1: Heat the Sugar and Corn Syrup
Start by setting a large saucepan over medium heat and adding your granulated sugar and corn syrup. Stir the mixture constantly, watching as the sugar dissolves and the whole thing turns glossy and smooth. When it comes just to a boil, it’s your signal to move to the next step — the goal is a syrupy, bubbling mixture, not caramel!
Step 2: Stir in Peanut Butter and Vanilla
Take the pan off the heat right away. Stir in the creamy peanut butter and a splash of vanilla extract. You’ll see the mixture transform almost instantly into a silky, golden base. Make sure everything is completely blended for a smooth texture.
Step 3: Fold in the Cornflakes
Now, the fun part! Gently fold in the cornflake cereal, making sure to coat every flake with that luscious peanut butter mixture. Work quickly and carefully here — you want every piece coated but still crisp, so take your time mixing but don’t crush the cornflakes.
Step 4: Shape and Cool the Candies
While the mixture is still warm and pliable, drop heaping spoonfuls onto wax paper or parchment paper. Try to shape them into rustic mounds, leaving space in between so they can cool evenly. Let them set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, resisting the urge to sneak a bite until they’re beautifully firm.
How to Serve Cornflake Candy
Garnishes
While Cornflake Candy is crave-worthy on its own, you can dress up each piece with a drizzle of melted chocolate, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or even a dusting of crushed nuts. These finishing touches add extra flair and flavor to every bite.
Side Dishes
If you’re making dessert platters, consider pairing these crunchy candies with fresh fruit like strawberries or orange segments to contrast the sweetness. They’re also wonderful alongside a glass of cold milk or piping hot coffee for a comforting snack break.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Cornflake Candy into edible gifts by wrapping clusters in clear treat bags tied with a ribbon. For parties, pile them high on a vintage cake stand or arrange them in mini cupcake liners. They look adorable at bake sales or holiday gatherings, especially with a colorful backdrop.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cornflake Candy keeps its chewy-crunchy magic when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Just layer parchment paper between the candies to keep them from sticking together. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days — if they last that long!
Freezing
Need to save some for later? Freeze Cornflake Candy on a baking sheet first, then transfer the firm candies to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to serve, let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes; they’ll taste just as delightful as the day you made them.
Reheating
Unlike many candies, Cornflake Candy is best eaten at room temperature and doesn’t really need reheating. If your candies have become a little too firm (maybe your kitchen is chilly!), simply leave them out for 5-10 minutes until they soften back up.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a little extra texture and nutty surprise in every bite. Just know that your final candies will be a bit more rustic and chunky, which lots of people adore.
My candy set up too hard. What went wrong?
This typically happens if the sugar and corn syrup boil for too long or too hot. For Cornflake Candy, you want to pull the mixture from the heat as soon as it comes to a boil, not after — this keeps it chewy, not brittle.
Are there any fun mix-in options?
Definitely! You can fold in mini marshmallows for a gooey twist or toss in chocolate chips right after you add the vanilla and peanut butter. Dried cranberries or chopped pretzels are also delicious for a salty-sweet combo.
Is Cornflake Candy gluten-free?
Yes, provided you choose a brand of cornflake cereal that doesn’t contain malt or other gluten-containing additives. Always double-check packaging if you’re serving anyone with celiac or gluten sensitivities.
How long does it take for Cornflake Candy to set?
About 30 minutes at room temperature is perfect. If your kitchen is particularly warm, you can pop the candies in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to speed things up; just let them re-acclimate to room temp for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Cornflake Candy recipe captures everything great about homemade sweets — no fuss, big flavor, and a playful spirit. From heartfelt gifts to midnight snacks, you’ll reach for this treat time and again. Give it a whirl and watch these humble clusters become the hit of your kitchen!
Print
Cornflake Candy Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and easy-to-make sweet treat, Cornflake Candy is a nostalgic favorite that combines the crunch of cornflakes with the creamy goodness of peanut butter. This no-bake dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth cravings in a flash.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 cups cornflake cereal
Instructions
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and corn syrup. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to boil.
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.
- Gently fold in the cornflakes, making sure they’re evenly coated without crushing them.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto wax paper or parchment paper and let them cool and set for about 30 minutes.
- Once firm, store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Work quickly when mixing and dropping the candy, as the mixture can harden fast.
- For added texture, mix in mini marshmallows or drizzle with melted chocolate once cooled.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
