If you are searching for a delightful treat that perfectly blends crunch, sweetness, and a touch of chocolatey magic, this Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe is absolutely the one to try. Imagine crispy cornflakes enveloped in a smooth, buttery syrup with just the right amount of sweetness, then luxuriously coated with melted chocolate. It is a snack that brings the kind of crunchy satisfaction that’s both nostalgic and utterly irresistible. Whether you want a quick dessert or a shareable sweet snack, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up this Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe, you’ll need just a few simple, everyday ingredients that pack a powerful punch. Each one plays a crucial role: crunchy cornflakes lend texture, sugar and corn syrup build the caramel base, butter adds silkiness, and chocolate chips bring that decadent finish.
- Cornflakes (2 cups): The crunchy backbone of your brittle, giving every bite a satisfying crisp texture.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (1 cup): For luscious, melty coverage that perfectly balances sweetness and richness.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Adds a creamy smoothness while helping to create the syrupy base.
- Light corn syrup (1/2 cup): Essential to prevent crystallization, keeping the brittle delightfully chewy and glossy.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): The primary sweetener that caramelizes into the brittle’s crunchy goodness.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): A subtle flavor enhancer that brings warmth and depth to the syrup.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies all the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Surface
First, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This step ensures you can easily lift the brittle from the sheet once it hardens, and it prevents sticking for a clean finish.
Step 2: Cook the Syrup
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt together the butter, corn syrup, and granulated sugar. Stir occasionally and patiently watch as the mixture reaches a gentle simmer, allowing the sugar to dissolve completely. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes and is critical for a smooth syrup base.
Step 3: Boil for the Perfect Thickness
Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil while stirring constantly to avoid burning. Once boiling, stop stirring and let it cook for exactly 3 minutes. This precision cooking thickens the syrup just right, making for brittle that isn’t too soft or too hard.
Step 4: Flavor and Season
Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract along with a pinch of salt. These final touches deepen the taste and subtly bring all the flavors together.
Step 5: Coat the Cornflakes
Pour the cornflakes into a large mixing bowl. Then, pour the hot syrup evenly over the cornflakes and gently fold them together to coat every piece without crushing their delicate crunch.
Step 6: Melt and Add Chocolate
Melt the chocolate chips until smooth — either in the microwave, stirring every 20 seconds to prevent scorching, or over a double boiler. Pour the melted chocolate over the coated cornflakes and fold the mixture until every flake is luxuriously coated in chocolate.
Step 7: Spread and Chill
Spread the chocolate-coated cornflakes onto your prepared baking sheet, pressing them into an even layer. Pop the sheet in the refrigerator and let the Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe set for at least 30 minutes, allowing it to firm up into that perfect crunchy slab.
Step 8: Break and Enjoy
When fully set, lift the brittle from the sheet and break it into bite-sized pieces. Now it’s ready to be devoured, shared, or packaged up as a fun homemade gift.
How to Serve Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the brittle right before it sets for a salty-sweet experience. You can also add crushed nuts, such as almonds or pecans, into the mixture before chilling for added texture and flavor complexity.
Side Dishes
Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate. It adds a delightful crunchy contrast and a sweet note that makes any casual snack moment feel special.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering broken pieces in a clear glass jar with whipped cream or yogurt for a simple parfait dessert. Wrapping small bundles in parchment paper tied with ribbon also makes charming gifts for friends and family during the holidays or as a thoughtful homemade treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any unused Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe stored in an airtight container at room temperature, where it will stay fresh for up to two weeks. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to preserve the crisp texture.
Freezing
If you want to store it longer, you can freeze the brittle. Place it in a freezer-safe container or sealed plastic bag, separating layers with parchment paper. When properly sealed, the brittle can last up to 3 months in the freezer without losing its crunch.
Reheating
This brittle is best enjoyed straight from storage without reheating, as the texture is key to its appeal. If it softens slightly, simply leave it at room temperature for a few minutes to regain its signature crispness.
FAQs
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! While semisweet chocolate chips offer a perfect balance, you can experiment with dark, milk, or even white chocolate depending on your preference. Just make sure to melt them gently to avoid burning.
What if I don’t have corn syrup?
Light corn syrup helps prevent crystallization and keeps the brittle chewy, but if unavailable, you can substitute with golden syrup or a mild honey. The texture might vary slightly, but it will still taste delicious.
How can I make the brittle more nutty?
Add chopped nuts such as almonds, pecans, or peanuts into the cornflake mixture before adding the melted chocolate for an extra crunch and nutty flavor boost.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes! Cornflakes are typically gluten-free, but double-check the packaging to ensure there are no gluten-containing additives. This recipe naturally lends itself well to gluten-free diets.
How long does it take to make the Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe?
Active preparation takes about 15-20 minutes, plus at least 30 minutes chilling time. Total time including chilling is roughly 50-60 minutes, making it a fantastic quick treat.
Final Thoughts
If you want to bring some joy to your snacking or treat your friends with something truly special, I can’t recommend this Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe enough. It is simple, quick, and endlessly satisfying with its perfect harmony of crispy cornflakes and rich chocolate flavor. Give it a try—you’ll find it hard to stop at just one piece!
Print
Cornflake Chocolate Brittle Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes plus 30 minutes chilling
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cornflake Chocolate Brittle is a delightful no-bake treat combining crunchy cornflakes with a rich, buttery caramel syrup and smooth semisweet chocolate. Easy to prepare, it sets in the fridge for a perfect sweet snack or dessert that balances crispy texture with chocolatey goodness.
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 set.
- Melt butter and syrups: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsalted butter, light corn syrup, and granulated sugar. Stir occasionally as the mixture heats until it comes to a simmer and sugar has dissolved, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Boil the syrup: Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Once boiling, allow it to cook without stirring for 3 minutes to thicken the syrup slightly.
- Add flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor balance.
- Prepare cornflakes: Pour the cornflakes into a large mixing bowl, ready to be coated.
- Coat the cornflakes: Immediately pour the hot syrup mixture over the cornflakes and gently stir to coat each flake evenly, ensuring every piece is covered.
- Melt the chocolate: In a separate bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips using a microwave in short bursts or on the stovetop in a double boiler until smooth and fluid.
- Combine chocolate and cornflakes: Pour the melted chocolate over the syrup-coated cornflakes and stir thoroughly to evenly combine the chocolate and ensure all flakes are coated beautifully.
- Form the brittle: Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet and press down gently to form a uniform layer.
- Chill to set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes, allowing the brittle to firm up properly.
- Serve: Once set, break the brittle into bite-sized pieces and serve as a crunchy, chocolatey treat.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the syrup is hot when poured over the cornflakes to evenly coat them.
- You can substitute semisweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge to keep it crisp.
- Be careful when handling hot syrup to avoid burns.
- Press the mixture evenly on the baking sheet to create uniform pieces that set well.
