If you’re craving a snack that perfectly balances crunchy, sweet, and a hint of chocolatey indulgence, you’re going to love this Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe. It combines the simple, comforting crunch of cornflakes with a luscious chocolate coating and a buttery, caramelized sweetness that makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or just want a delightful treat to nibble on, this recipe delivers a satisfying texture and flavor that feels both nostalgic and excitingly new.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each plays a crucial role: cornflakes bring that iconic crunch, chocolate adds creamy richness, and the syrup mixture binds everything into a shiny, crackly brittle.
- 2 cups cornflakes: The crunchy base that gives the brittle its signature texture.
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips: Adds a smooth chocolate coating to bring warmth and sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Creates richness and helps achieve the perfect caramel flavor.
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup: Adds shine to the brittle and ensures it holds together crisply.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: The key to that beautifully caramelized sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances depth with a subtle, fragrant note.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and highlights the other flavors.
How to Make Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workstation
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This simple step ensures the brittle won’t stick, making cleanup and removal effortless once it’s set.
Step 2: Create the Caramel Syrup
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, corn syrup, and granulated sugar. Stir occasionally until everything melts and blends into a smooth mixture. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes so the sugar dissolves completely, which is the foundation of your brittle’s sweet, crackly coating.
Step 3: Boil to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once boiling, allow it to cook for 3 minutes without stirring—this helps the syrup thicken slightly so your brittle will have that perfect snap.
Step 4: Flavor It Up
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract along with a pinch of salt. These small additions create a complex, inviting flavor that takes the brittle from good to truly memorable.
Step 5: Coat the Cornflakes
Pour the cornflakes into a large mixing bowl. Immediately drizzle the hot syrup over them, then gently stir to coat every flake evenly without crushing their delicate crunch.
Step 6: Add the Chocolate
Next, melt the semisweet chocolate chips separately—either in short bursts in the microwave or over a double boiler on the stovetop—until completely smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the syrup-coated cornflakes and stir until all flakes are evenly enveloped in glossy chocolate.
Step 7: Shape and Chill
Spread your chocolate-coated cornflake mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to press it into a smooth, even layer. Pop it into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes so it can set firm and become crunchy.
Step 8: Break and Enjoy
Once the brittle is fully chilled and firm, break it into rustic pieces. Now your delicious Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe is ready to be enjoyed, perfect for snacking or sharing!
How to Serve Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe, sprinkle a handful of flaky sea salt on top before chilling. It adds a delightful contrast that makes the chocolate and caramel flavors pop even more. Alternatively, dust with a light drizzle of white chocolate for a playful visual and taste twist.
Side Dishes
This brittle pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea, as the bitterness of the drinks balances the sweet crunch. For a festive touch, serve alongside fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream, turning snack time into a simple dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or party platters, arrange pieces of this Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe in decorative jars or cellophane bags tied with a ribbon. You can also mix the brittle pieces into ice cream as crunchy chunks or break them finely over yogurt for an added crunch and flavor boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it crisp. It will stay fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks, making it a great grab-and-go treat whenever that chocolate craving hits.
Freezing
You can freeze the brittle pieces by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When properly stored, the brittle can last up to 3 months in the freezer without losing its snap or flavor.
Reheating
While reheating is not usually necessary, if the brittle loses a bit of its crunch, let it sit at room temperature to warm up naturally. Avoid microwaving, as this can melt the chocolate and ruin the texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cereal instead of cornflakes?
Absolutely! While cornflakes give that classic crunch and subtle flavor, you can experiment with rice crisps or bran flakes for a different texture and taste. Keep in mind that some cereals are sweeter or fluffier, which will slightly alter the final brittle.
How do I ensure the brittle gets crispy and not chewy?
The key is boiling the syrup mixture long enough to thicken it properly and then refrigerating the brittle until it’s completely set. Avoid stirring once the syrup boils to prevent crystallization, which can make the brittle chewy instead of crisp.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate chips?
Yes, dark chocolate will add a richer, more intense flavor that balances the sweetness of the syrup beautifully. Just choose a quality chocolate with a cocoa content you enjoy for the best results.
Is there a way to make this recipe nut-free?
This Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe as-is is naturally nut-free, but always double-check your cereal and chocolate labels to ensure no cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.
How long does it take to make the brittle from start to finish?
The active cooking time is about 15-20 minutes, but you’ll want to allow at least 30 minutes of chilling time for the brittle to set properly, so plan for about 45 minutes in total before it’s ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making and sharing this Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe. It’s the kind of treat that brings comfort, delight, and a little bit of magic to everyday moments. I can’t wait for you to try it out and see just how addictively good crunchy, chocolatey brittle can be!
Print
Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Cornflake Chocolate Brittle is a delightful, crunchy treat combining crispy cornflakes coated in a rich, buttery caramel syrup and smooth, melted semisweet chocolate. This no-bake confection is easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups cornflakes
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to ensure easy removal of the brittle once it has set.
- Melt syrup mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, light corn syrup, and granulated sugar. Stir occasionally until the mixture starts to simmer and the sugar is fully dissolved, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Boil the syrup: Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once boiling, allow it to cook for an additional 3 minutes without stirring to let the syrup thicken slightly.
- Add flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor profile.
- Coat the cornflakes: Place the cornflakes in a large mixing bowl. Pour the hot syrup mixture over the cornflakes and gently stir to ensure all the flakes are evenly coated with the caramel syrup.
- Melt the chocolate: In a separate bowl, melt the chocolate chips using a microwave in short bursts or on the stovetop using a double boiler, stirring frequently until the chocolate is smooth and glossy.
- Combine chocolate and cornflakes: Pour the melted chocolate over the coated cornflakes. Stir thoroughly until all the coated cornflakes are evenly mixed and enveloped in chocolate.
- Spread the mixture: Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and press it down into an even layer to help it set uniformly.
- Chill to set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes, allowing the brittle to firm up completely.
- Break and serve: Once set, break the brittle into bite-sized pieces and serve as a delicious snack or dessert.
Notes
- For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before chilling to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Store brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to keep it crisp.
- You can substitute cornflakes with rice cereal for a different texture.
- Use a microwave-safe bowl and stir chocolate frequently to prevent overheating and burning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
