If you’re craving a treat that’s delightfully crunchy, irresistibly sweet, and wonderfully simple to whip up, these Easy Cornflake Cookies are truly a snack that hits all the right notes. Sweet peanut butter, golden syrup, and crispy flakes create a satisfying handheld bite that’s just as great for a lunchbox as it is for a festive dessert table. With no baking required and just five classic pantry staples, you’ll be amazed by how much flavor and nostalgia you can pack into these chewy, kid-pleasing cookies. Whether you’re new to no-bake desserts or looking to revisit a childhood favorite, Easy Cornflake Cookies are perfect for sharing—or for saving all to yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Cornflake Cookies:
- 4 cups cornflake cereal
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Easy Cornflake Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper and setting it nearby. This little step will make scooping and setting your Easy Cornflake Cookies a breeze, plus it guarantees zero stuck-on mess when it’s time to enjoy them.
Step 2: Make the Syrup Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine your granulated sugar and light corn syrup over medium heat. Stir steadily—this is your chance to make sure the sugar melts evenly and blends perfectly with the syrup. The moment the mixture comes to a boil, remove the pan from heat so your syrup stays smooth (not grainy or overcooked).
Step 3: Stir in Peanut Butter and Vanilla
Add your creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract to the hot syrup. Stir them in right away! The warmth of the mixture will turn the peanut butter silky smooth, and the vanilla adds that lovely bakery-style aroma. Keep stirring until everything is well blended with no streaks left.
Step 4: Fold in the Cornflakes
It’s time for the star ingredient! Gently fold in your cornflake cereal, making sure each flake gets a glossy, peanut-buttery coating. Try to be gentle—the less you crush them, the crunchier the cookies will be.
Step 5: Shape and Cool
Working quickly (the mixture sets faster than you’d think!), drop heaping spoonfuls onto your prepared baking sheet. Use the back of your spoon to gently nudge each mound into a tidy shape. Let the cookies cool at room temperature for around 30 minutes, or until they’re set and ready to eat. That’s it—you’ve just made a batch of Easy Cornflake Cookies!
How to Serve Easy Cornflake Cookies
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, try dusting your cookies with a touch of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of colorful nonpareils, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate. Chopped peanuts or mini marshmallows stirred in before shaping give your Easy Cornflake Cookies knockout crunch and visual appeal, too.
Side Dishes
Easy Cornflake Cookies pair perfectly with a cold glass of milk (classic!), a mug of hot cocoa, or even an afternoon coffee. For a fun dessert platter, team them up with fresh fruit, chocolate-dipped pretzels, or buttery shortbread bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gifts, layer the cookies with parchment in a festive tin, or slide them into clear treat bags tied with ribbon. Arrange on a colorful tray or cake stand for a sunny snack table centerpiece—just watch them disappear!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Easy Cornflake Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They happily last up to a week—if you can resist snacking on them for that long! Separate layers with parchment to keep them from sticking together.
Freezing
These cookies freeze surprisingly well! Once fully set, stack them between sheets of wax paper in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to two months and thaw at room temperature whenever a craving hits.
Reheating
No reheating needed, but if you love your cookies just a little softer, leave them out in a warm kitchen or give them a 5-second zap in the microwave. Just be careful—not too long or they’ll melt right back into gooey goodness.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds even more nutty texture to Easy Cornflake Cookies, and it’s a delicious swap if you prefer a bit more bite in your cookies.
Are Easy Cornflake Cookies gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your cornflake cereal is certified gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always double-check the label on your cereal and other ingredients if you have strict dietary needs.
Can I add extra mix-ins?
Definitely! Mini marshmallows, chopped nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips all make wonderful additions. Just be sure not to overload the mixture, or the cookies may not hold together as well.
How do I keep the cookies from getting too hard?
The key is to remove the syrup mixture from heat the moment it boils. Overcooking can cause your cookies to set too firmly, so follow the timing closely for the chewiest result.
Can kids help make these cookies?
Yes! Kids will love folding in the cornflakes and dropping spoonfuls onto the tray, though an adult should handle the hot syrup. It’s an easy and fun project for little helping hands.
Final Thoughts
If you treasure quick, satisfying treats with a homey vibe, you’re going to fall in love with Easy Cornflake Cookies. They’re joyfully simple and full of flavor, making them a favorite for every age. Gather your ingredients, invite a friend or some eager helpers, and make a batch soon—your future self will thank you!
Print
Easy Cornflake Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes (including cooling)
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Easy Cornflake Cookies are a simple and delicious treat that requires no baking. Made with crunchy cornflakes, creamy peanut butter, and a touch of sweetness, these cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in a pinch.
Ingredients
Cornflake Cookies:
- 4 cups cornflake cereal
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Mixture: In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar and corn syrup. Heat until boiling, then remove from heat. Add peanut butter and vanilla, stirring until smooth.
- Combine with Cornflakes: Gently fold in the cornflakes until well coated.
- Shape and Cool: Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet, shaping into mounds. Let cool at room temperature until set.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add mini marshmallows or chopped peanuts.
- Crunchy peanut butter can be used for a different texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
