Cornflake Squares
Crunchy, sweet, and salty Cornflake Squares combine peanut butter, brown sugar, and peanuts for a nostalgic treat perfect for snacking or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together brown sugar, peanut butter, and corn syrup in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave until boiling, stirring once or twice to combine.
- Add 2 cups of peanuts and the crushed cornflakes to the mixture.
- Mix well and press into a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother mixture, ensure your peanut butter is at room temperature before mixing. If you want a different flavor profile, try substituting almond butter for peanut butter. You can also replace the salted peanuts with unsalted ones or add mini chocolate chips for a sweet twist. If you're short on cornflakes, crushed graham crackers can be a great alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Cornflake Squares are perfect as a quick snack or dessert. They pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. For a fun presentation, cut them into small squares and serve at parties alongside other treats like E Z Old Fashion Brownies. You can also drizzle melted chocolate on top for added indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cornflake Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer them chilled, refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. They can also be frozen for longer storage; simply wrap them in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornflake Squares contains roughly 462 calories, with 14g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 604mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use honey instead of corn syrup?
Yes, you can substitute honey for corn syrup, but keep in mind it will change the flavor slightly and may make the squares a bit chewier. Honey also tends to be sweeter, so you might want to reduce the amount of brown sugar slightly.
How do I make these squares less sticky?
To reduce stickiness, ensure that the mixture is well combined and evenly pressed into the pan. Using a lightly greased spatula can help spread the mixture without it sticking. Additionally, chilling the squares in the refrigerator before cutting can make them easier to slice.
Can I add other ingredients to the mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to add dried fruit, such as raisins or cranberries, for a chewy texture or mix in some shredded coconut for additional flavor. Just be sure to adjust the ratio of cornflakes accordingly to maintain the structure of the squares.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).