If you love the nostalgic crunch of cereal combined with the rich, comforting flavors of peanut butter, then this Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies Recipe is about to become your new go-to treat. These cookies bring together simple pantry staples into a delightful medley of sweet, salty, and crunchy textures that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or craving a fun snack, this recipe delivers big on flavor and fun without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, this recipe requires just a handful of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of taste and texture. From the crispy cornflakes that add crunch to the smooth peanut butter that holds everything together, every component is essential to these delicious cookies.
- 6 cups Cornflakes cereal: Provides the light, crispy crunch that makes these cookies so unique and airy.
- 1 cup Corn Syrup (light): Acts as the sweet binding agent that keeps the cookies chewy yet firm.
- 1 cup Sugar: Adds the perfect amount of sweetness and helps create that satisfying chewiness.
- 1 cup Peanut Butter: Brings a creamy, nutty flavor and binds the cornflakes with sweetness.
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, inviting aroma.
- 1/4 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Used for a luscious drizzle that adds a touch of chocolate decadence.
- 1/2 tsp Vegetable Oil: Helps the chocolate melt smoothly for an even drizzle.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Cornflakes
Start by measuring out your 6 cups of cornflakes into a large mixing bowl. Take care not to crush them too much as those crisp flakes are the star of the show and give the cookies their signature crunch. Set the bowl aside until you’re ready to mix everything together.
Step 2: Make Syrup Mixture
In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, combine the light corn syrup and sugar. Stir this mixture occasionally, patiently waiting until all the sugar has completely dissolved. The goal here is to create a smooth, glossy syrup that will bind the cookie ingredients perfectly without any grittiness.
Step 3: Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla
Remove the pan from the heat once the sugar is dissolved and immediately stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract. Keep mixing until the peanut butter melts fully into the syrup, creating a luscious, smooth mixture that smells heavenly and tastes even better.
Step 4: Combine with Cornflakes
Pour your warm peanut butter mixture over the cornflakes in the large bowl. Using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the cornflakes into the sticky, flavorful syrup. Make sure each flake is thoroughly coated but be gentle to keep their crunch intact. This step is key to achieving the perfect texture.
Step 5: Shape Cookies
Now, scoop out small portions of the coated cornflake mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. You can use a cookie scoop or simply two spoons. Gently flatten each mound to form cookie shapes. The cookies won’t be baked, so the shaping is important for their final form. Set them aside to cool completely so they can harden into their chewy, crunchy glory.
Step 6: Make Chocolate Drizzle
While your cookies are cooling, mix the semi-sweet chocolate chips with the vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Warm in 15-second bursts in the microwave, stirring well between each interval until the chocolate is melted and velvety smooth. This simple chocolate drizzle will add a rich contrast to the sweet, peanut buttery cookies.
Step 7: Drizzle and Set
Once the cookies have hardened, generously drizzle the melted chocolate over each one using a spoon. Allow the chocolate to cool and set at room temperature. This finishing touch not only looks beautiful but also adds a decadent hit of chocolate that makes these cookies irresistible.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, try sprinkling a light dusting of sea salt or crushed peanuts over the chocolate drizzle before it sets. This contrast between salty and sweet elevates the cookie experience and complements the rich peanut butter flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
These Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee or tea. Their crunchiness and sweetness make them perfect bite-sized companions for any cozy gathering or afternoon pick-me-up.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these cookies on a festive platter surrounded by fresh fruit or a bowl of mixed nuts. Alternatively, stack a few with a scoop of vanilla ice cream in between for a playful twist on a sundae. They’re versatile, delightful bites that suit any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. This keeps them nice and crisp while maintaining that chewy center that’s so addictive.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, these cookies freeze exceptionally well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep their texture for up to three months.
Reheating
You don’t need much to enjoy these after storage—simply let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature. To refresh their crunch, pop them into a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. Enjoy them warm or cooled, both ways are delicious.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter for the Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter adds an extra layer of texture to the cookies, making them even more interesting. Just be sure to mix it well so it binds everything evenly.
Is corn syrup necessary or can I substitute it?
Corn syrup helps give these cookies their chewy yet firm texture. If you prefer, you can substitute with honey or golden syrup, but expect a slightly different flavor and consistency.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free cornflakes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always double-check labels if you’re sensitive to gluten to ensure all ingredients are safe.
Do these cookies require baking?
No baking needed! These cookies set as the syrup mixture cools and hardens around the cornflakes, making it a quick and easy no-bake treat to whip up anytime.
How long will the Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh and delicious for up to five days at room temperature. Their texture is best enjoyed within this timeframe to maintain the perfect crunch.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies Recipe that makes it a standout snack for both kids and adults alike. Crunchy, sweet, and full of comforting peanut butter goodness, these cookies are a fabulous way to bring a smile and satisfy any sweet tooth without a complicated bake. I can’t wait for you to make them, share them, and enjoy every crunchy, chewy bite!
Print
Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including cooling and setting time)
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightfully crunchy and sweet, these Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies combine the timeless flavors of peanut butter and chocolate with the satisfying crispiness of cornflakes. Perfect as a no-bake treat that’s simple to prepare, these cookies are great for gatherings, snacks, or an easy homemade dessert.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups Cornflakes cereal
- 1 cup Corn Syrup (light)
- 1 cup Sugar
- 1 cup Peanut Butter
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
Chocolate Drizzle
- 1/4 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
- 1/2 tsp Vegetable Oil
Instructions
- Prepare Cornflakes: Measure out 6 cups of cornflakes cereal into a large mixing bowl, taking care not to crush the flakes to maintain their crunchiness. Set aside.
- Make Syrup Mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the light corn syrup and sugar. Stir occasionally until all sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture becomes smooth and uniform.
- Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine with Cornflakes: Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the cornflakes. Gently fold with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until each flake is evenly coated with the mixture.
- Shape Cookies: Use a cookie scoop or two spoons to drop small portions of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently flatten them to form cookie shapes. Allow the cookies to cool completely and harden.
- Make Chocolate Drizzle: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips with vegetable oil. Microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Drizzle and Set: Once the cookies have fully set, drizzle the melted chocolate over each cookie with a spoon. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature before serving or storing.
Notes
- Be gentle when mixing to preserve the crispiness of the cornflakes.
- Allow cookies to fully cool to prevent them from sticking and to help them firm up.
- The chocolate drizzle is optional but adds a delicious finishing touch.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
