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Peanut Butter Cornflake Candy is a nostalgic, no-bake treat that’s crunchy, chewy, and packed with flavor. This easy-to-make dessert combines the nutty goodness of peanut butter with the crispiness of cornflakes, making it a delightful candy loved by both kids and adults. Let’s dive into how to make this classic candy along with variations and tips to perfect your batch!
How to Make Peanut Butter Cornflake Candy Recipe
1. Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Provides rich, smooth flavor and texture for the candy.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the candy and helps create a firm structure.
- 1 cup light corn syrup: Acts as a sweetener and binder for a glossy, cohesive texture.
- 6 cups cornflakes: Adds a crunchy texture to the candy.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances flavor with a warm, aromatic
Optional ingredients for added flavor: mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or sprinkles.
2. Instructions
- Prepare your workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Melt the peanut butter mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and light corn syrup over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble.
- Incorporate peanut butter: Once bubbling, remove from heat and stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Add cornflakes: Gradually fold in the cornflakes, ensuring they are fully coated in the peanut butter mixture.
- Scoop and shape: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop small clusters of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Let them set: Allow the candy to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes until firm.
- Enjoy: Once firm, your Peanut Butter Cornflake Candy is ready to be enjoyed!
3. Tips for Success
- Use regular peanut butter: Avoid natural peanut butter, as it may cause the candy to be too oily and not set properly.
- Be Quick When Mixing: The peanut butter mixture thickens quickly as it cools, so be sure to stir in the cornflakes promptly for even coverage.
- Keep stirring: Stir the sugar and corn syrup mixture continuously to avoid burning and ensure a smooth consistency.
- Customization: For a festive twist, add food coloring (like green for Christmas) or top with sprinkles.
4. Variations
- Almond Butter Cornflake Candy: Substitute peanut butter with almond butter for a slightly different nutty flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the top of the candies for a rich and decadent touch.
- Crunchy Almond Cornflake Candy: If you’re a fan of nuts, consider substituting half of the peanut butter with almond butter and adding 1/2 cup of chopped almonds. The result is a nutty twist that pairs beautifully with the crunchy cornflakes, similar to the recipe for Crunchy Almond Cookies but in candy form.
- Coconut Cornflake Candy: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Bars Instead of Candies: Press the mixture into an 8×8 greased baking dish, allow it to cool, and then slice into bars for a different serving style.
- Butterscotch Cornflake Candy: For a more unique flavor, replace half of the sugar with butterscotch chips. The sweet, caramel-like flavor of butterscotch takes the candy to a new level.
- Marshmallow Mix: If you love gooey treats, add 1 cup of mini marshmallows to the warm peanut butter mixture. The marshmallows will melt slightly, creating a soft, chewy contrast to the crunch of the cornflakes.
5. What to Serve With
Peanut Butter Cornflake Candy can be served alongside a variety of complementary treats:
- Chocolate Milk: The sweetness of the candy pairs perfectly with a rich, cold glass of chocolate milk.
- Coffee or Tea: For adults, this candy can be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea as a sweet, midday snack.
- Ice Cream: Crumble the candy over vanilla or chocolate ice cream for added crunch and flavor.
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with slices of fresh fruits like apples, pears, or strawberries to balance out the candy’s sweetness.
6. FAQs
Why is my candy too hard?
If your candy turns out too hard, it’s likely because the sugar and corn syrup mixture was cooked for too long or at too high of a temperature. Cook it just until it starts to bubble, then remove it from heat immediately.
Can I make it with other cereals?
Yes, you can try using cereals like Rice Krispies or Cheerios for a different texture, but the original cornflake version gives the perfect crunch.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily double or triple the recipe, especially if you’re making it for a larger group or holiday gifts. Just ensure you have enough parchment paper and workspace to spread the candies.
Can I freeze cornflake candy? Yes, you can freeze this candy. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. When ready to serve, let it thaw at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
Can I use Frosted Flakes instead of plain cornflakes? Absolutely! Using Frosted Flakes will add an extra layer of sweetness, which can be a fun variation.
Can I use honey instead of corn syrup? Yes, you can substitute corn syrup with honey for a more natural sweetener, though it will slightly alter the flavor and texture.
7. Substitutes for Peanut Butter Cornflake Candy
- Honey: For a slightly healthier option, substitute half the corn syrup with honey. This will add a slight floral sweetness.
- Cashew Butter: If you’re not a fan of peanut butter, you can substitute with cashew butter, almond butter, or even sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
- Gluten-Free Cornflakes: If you’re catering to a gluten-free diet, opt for certified gluten-free cornflakes to make this recipe gluten-friendly.
- Nut-Free Option: For those with nut allergies, you can substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter. The candy will still be delicious and safe for those avoiding nuts.
- Sugar Alternatives: If you’re looking to reduce the sugar content, try using agave syrup or coconut sugar in place of white sugar. Be mindful that these substitutes may slightly change the texture and taste.
8. Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugars: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
This Peanut Butter Cornflake Candy recipe is a delightful combination of sweet, nutty, and crispy flavors. It’s simple enough to whip up for last-minute gatherings, holiday treats, or even just a special snack. With its versatile nature, you can easily experiment with different variations to make it your own. Whether you’re a fan of classic peanut butter flavors or looking to try new twists, this recipe has something for everyone!
Ingredients
Ingredients for making Peanut Butter Cornflake Candy
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Provides rich, smooth flavor and texture for the candy.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the candy and helps create a firm structure.
- 1 cup light corn syrup: Acts as a sweetener and binder for a glossy, cohesive texture.
- 6 cups cornflakes: Adds a crunchy texture to the candy.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances flavor with a warm, aromatic
Optional ingredients for added flavor: mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or sprinkles.
Instructions
Instructions for making Peanut Butter Cornflake Candy
- Prepare your workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Melt the peanut butter mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and light corn syrup over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble.
- Incorporate peanut butter: Once bubbling, remove from heat and stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Add cornflakes: Gradually fold in the cornflakes, ensuring they are fully coated in the peanut butter mixture.
- Scoop and shape: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop small clusters of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Let them set: Allow the candy to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes until firm.
- Enjoy: Once firm, your Peanut Butter Cornflake Candy is ready to be enjoyed!
Notes
Tips for making perfect Peanut Butter Cornflake Candy
- Use regular peanut butter: Avoid natural peanut butter, as it may cause the candy to be too oily and not set properly.
- Be Quick When Mixing: The peanut butter mixture thickens quickly as it cools, so be sure to stir in the cornflakes promptly for even coverage.
- Keep stirring: Stir the sugar and corn syrup mixture continuously to avoid burning and ensure a smooth consistency.
- Customization: For a festive twist, add food coloring (like green for Christmas) or top with sprinkles
