Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars
These bars hit that sweet spot between candy and cereal. You don’t need an oven or any fancy techniques.
Just melt, mix, and chill. The cornflakes stay crunchy while the peanut butter base sets up firm but chewy.
Why Cornflake Freshness Matters
Stale cornflakes turn mushy the moment they hit warm peanut butter. Check your cereal box date and give them a taste test. Fresh cornflakes snap when you bite them. If they’re soft or chewy straight from the box, grab a new one. The crunch contrast makes these bars special.
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Temperature Controls Everything
Heat your peanut butter mixture just enough to melt and combine. Too hot and you’ll cook the cornflakes into mush. Remove from heat the second everything liquefies. Let it cool for two minutes before folding in cereal. This keeps each flake intact and crispy.
Press Without Crushing
Use the back of a measuring cup to gently press the mixture into your pan. Don’t smash down hard like you’re making graham cracker crust. Light, even pressure distributes everything without breaking the cornflakes. You want compression, not destruction.
Getting Clean Bar Cuts
- Wipe your knife with a damp cloth between cuts to prevent the peanut butter from dragging and tearing the bars.
- Store bars separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking together, especially in warm weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will natural peanut butter work the same way?
Natural peanut butter can make the bars softer and oilier. Stir it well first and expect a slightly different texture than regular creamy peanut butter.
How long do these bars stay fresh?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to one week. They’ll stay crunchy and hold their shape best when kept cold.
Can I substitute the honey with something else?
Corn syrup or maple syrup work well. Avoid agave as it doesn’t set as firmly and may leave your bars too soft.
Must-Have Items
Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars
Ingredients
Equipment Needed
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Medium saucepan
- Large mixing spoon
- Measuring cup for pressing
Instructions
- Prepare pan: Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- Heat peanut butter mixture: Combine peanut butter, honey, and brown sugar in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir constantly until mixture is smooth and just begins to bubble around edges, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add flavorings: Remove from heat and immediately stir in vanilla and salt until combined. Let cool for 2 minutes.
- Combine with cornflakes: Add cornflakes to the saucepan and gently fold with a large spoon until every flake is coated. Fold in chocolate chips.
- Press into pan: Transfer mixture to prepared pan. Use the back of a measuring cup to gently press into an even layer without crushing the cornflakes.
- Chill and cut: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until completely set. Use parchment overhang to lift out and cut into 16 bars.
Nutrition Facts
Per Serving (1 bar)
