Imagine this: you’re curled up on the couch, cozy socks on, your favorite show playing in the background—and in your hand is the most irresistible, crunchy, sweet-salty treat you didn’t even know you needed. That’s the magic of Cornflake Chocolate Brittle. It’s nostalgic yet surprising, familiar yet totally addictive. Trust me, you’re going to love this one.
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This recipe is pure joy in snack form. The crispy cornflakes give it that satisfying crunch, the rich chocolate wraps it all in indulgent goodness, and just a hint of salt makes every bite pop. It’s like your favorite childhood cereal had a delicious grown-up glow-up.
And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make. Whether you’re making a batch to share with friends, bring to a party, or let’s be honest—hoard for yourself—this recipe delivers every time.
Why You’ll Love Cornflake Chocolate Brittle
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for movie nights, lunchbox surprises, or as a unique dessert option at your next gathering. It’s one of those treats that works for every season and situation.
Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples you probably already have, so there’s no need for fancy ingredients or a last-minute grocery run.
Quick and Easy: Minimal prep, minimal fuss, and maximum reward. This is a one-bowl kind of recipe that comes together in a flash.
Customizable: Add chopped nuts, a sprinkle of sea salt, or even a dash of chili flakes for a spicy twist—go wild and make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone from toddlers to grandparents will be reaching for seconds. This brittle has universal appeal.
Ingredients in Cornflake Chocolate Brittle
Here’s the secret: simple ingredients that, when combined, become something truly magical. Let’s break it down:
Cornflakes: The crispy base that gives the brittle its signature crunch. They absorb the chocolate just enough while keeping their texture.
Chocolate Chips: Whether you go for semi-sweet, dark, or even white chocolate, this is the rich, melty component that binds everything together.
Peanut Butter: Adds creaminess and depth of flavor. It also helps the brittle hold its shape once cooled.
Honey or Light Corn Syrup: Gives the brittle a glossy finish and helps hold all those cornflakes together like sweet edible glue.
Butter: Just a touch for richness and a silky smooth melt.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the other flavors and adds a subtle warmth.
Salt: A little pinch goes a long way to balance the sweetness and deepen the flavors.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Melt the Chocolate Base: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, chocolate chips, peanut butter, and honey until smooth and fully combined. Stir constantly to prevent burning and to ensure a silky, luscious texture.
Add the Vanilla: Once everything is melted and smooth, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This step adds a final touch of warmth to the mix.
Fold in the Cornflakes: Gently stir in the cornflakes, making sure every flake is generously coated with the chocolatey mixture. Be gentle here—you want to keep those flakes as intact as possible for maximum crunch.
Transfer to Pan: Line a baking sheet or pan with parchment paper and pour the mixture in. Use a spatula to press it down evenly across the surface. This helps it set up in a nice, even layer.
Chill Until Set: Pop the tray in the fridge for about an hour or until fully hardened. This allows everything to firm up into that perfect, snappy brittle texture.
Break Into Pieces: Once set, break into shards of your desired size. Go rustic with rough chunks or cut it into neat squares—whatever fits your vibe.
Serve and Enjoy: It’s ready to go! Serve on a snack tray, wrap in parchment as a gift, or store in an airtight container for whenever your sweet tooth strikes.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 10–12
Calories per serving: 210
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling)
How to Serve Cornflake Chocolate Brittle
This crunchy treat is endlessly versatile. Here are a few fun ways to serve it up:
On Dessert Platters: Pair with cookies, fruit, or small cakes for a beautiful and varied dessert spread.
As a Gift: Wrap it in clear bags with a ribbon for a sweet homemade gift.
With Coffee or Tea: The perfect afternoon pick-me-up, served alongside your favorite hot beverage.
Crumbled Over Ice Cream: Yep, you read that right. Use it like a crunchy chocolate topping on your favorite scoop.
Snack Bar Style: Set up a DIY snack bar with nuts, dried fruit, and other nibbles alongside your brittle for parties or game nights.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: You can make this the night before and store in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Add Mix-Ins: Try tossing in chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or crushed pretzels before spreading the mixture in the pan.
Make It Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free chocolate and plant-based butter alternatives for a vegan-friendly version.
Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the fridge for up to 10 days.
Double the Batch: Trust me—you’ll want more. Make a big batch and keep some in the freezer (just let it come to room temp before serving).
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different cereal instead of cornflakes?
A1: Yes! Rice Krispies or even crushed Cheerios work beautifully. The texture will change slightly, but it’ll still be delicious.
Q2: Can I make this nut-free?
A2: Absolutely. Swap the peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or another nut-free alternative.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: In an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge. Just make sure it’s well sealed to maintain the crunch.
Q4: Can I freeze it?
A4: Yes! Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. Let it thaw for a few minutes before enjoying.
Q5: Can I make it sweeter or less sweet?
A5: You sure can. Adjust the honey or chocolate ratio depending on your sweet tooth.
Q6: How do I make it gluten-free?
A6: Just be sure to use certified gluten-free cornflakes and double-check your other ingredients.
Q7: Can I add toppings?
A7: Definitely. Try a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, crushed candy canes, or even festive sprinkles.
Q8: Is it safe for kids to help make?
A8: 100%! Kids can help with mixing and spreading—just keep an eye on the hot ingredients.
Q9: Can I use white chocolate?
A9: Yes, it’ll give it a sweeter, creamier vibe. You can even mix white and dark chocolate for a swirl effect.
Q10: What if I don’t have parchment paper?
A10: You can use wax paper or lightly grease the pan with butter or oil, though parchment works best for easy removal.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about making a treat that’s both insanely simple and totally irresistible. This Cornflake Chocolate Brittle is proof that you don’t need a fancy pantry or hours in the kitchen to create something everyone will rave about. Whether you’re whipping it up for a holiday tray or just because your sweet tooth won’t quit—this one’s a keeper.
Print
Cornflake Chocolate Brittle
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cornflake Chocolate Brittle is irresistibly crunchy, sweet, and salty—perfect for snacking or sharing! Golden cornflakes are coated in a rich caramel glaze, baked to perfection, then drizzled with melty chocolate and a touch of flakey sea salt. It’s an easy and addictive treat you can whip up in under an hour. Great for potlucks, gifting, or just keeping in the kitchen for sweet cravings. Try this sweet twist on cereal for a fun snack recipe that’s simple yet totally satisfying.
Ingredients
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3 cups cornflakes
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4 tablespoons salted butter, room temperature
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1/2 cup packed brown sugar
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2 tablespoons light corn syrup
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips, for drizzle
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Flakey sea salt, to taste
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 300°F. Line a 9×13 baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Place 3 cups of cornflakes into a large heat-safe bowl.
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In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla.
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Stir for 1–2 minutes until butter melts, then bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and stir for another 1–2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
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Remove from heat and immediately pour over the cornflakes. Toss to coat evenly.
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Spread the coated cornflakes into an even 1/2–3/4 inch layer on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake for 20–30 minutes or until golden brown and caramelized, watching carefully to prevent burning.
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Let cool completely on the tray.
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Melt chocolate chips and drizzle over cooled brittle. Sprinkle with flakey sea salt.
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Once the chocolate is set, break into pieces and serve or store in an airtight container.
Notes
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Use dark chocolate chips or white chocolate for a different flavor twist.
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
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Great for gifting during holidays or special events.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/6 of batch)
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg