Name: Sweet and Chewy Cornflake Cookies Everyone Will Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled for accuracy); 1 teaspoon baking powder (check for freshness); 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (opt for fresh); 1/2 teaspoon salt (kosher salt is a good alternative); 1/2 cup salted butter (softened); 1/2 cup light brown sugar (infuses moisture and caramel note); 1/4 cup granulated white sugar (balances sweetness); 2 large egg yolks (fresh and at room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure extract for best taste); 1 cup old-fashioned oats (avoid instant oats); 2 cups cornflakes (plain cornflakes work best); 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (sprinkle on top)

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The moment you crack open a box of cornflakes, you might not be dreaming of cookies, but let me surprise you. These Chewy Cornflake Cookies with Buttery Caramel Flavor will take your taste buds on a delightful journey. Combining the classic crunch of cornflakes with a chewy and soft cookie base, this easy recipe is done in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for spontaneous cravings or holiday cookie exchanges. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser, but they’re also wonderfully versatile—feel free to toss in your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or peanut butter for an extra twist! Have you ever wondered how a cookie could perfectly blend sweet and salty while maintaining that satisfying crunch? You’re in for a treat!

Why are Cornflake Cookies so special?

Deliciously Unique: These cookies blend the crunch of cornflakes with a chewy center, creating a delightful twist on traditional treats.

Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch, perfect for those unexpected guests or last-minute cravings!

Crowd Favorite: Their sweet and salty flavor profile guarantees their appeal at any gathering, making them a hit whether served at a barbecue or a holiday cookie exchange.

Versatile Base: Want to customize? Toss in some chocolate chips or peanut butter for an irresistible flavor boost, just like you can do with my Cosmic Brownie Cookies.

Satisfying Texture: The combination of a soft, buttery interior with a crunchy exterior ensures every bite is enjoyable.

Perfect for Sharing: Pack them up for a thoughtful gift or dessert platter that everyone will love!

Cornflake Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to bake with these essential ingredients!

For the Cookie Base

All-purpose flour – Provides structure; spooned and leveled flour ensures accuracy.
Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent; always check for freshness to guarantee rise.
Baking soda – Works with baking powder for lift; opt for fresh for best results.
Salt – Enhances flavor; kosher salt is a great alternative.
Salted butter – Adds rich flavor; unsalted can be used with a touch of added salt.
Light brown sugar – Infuses moisture and a caramel note; swap for granulated for less chewiness.
Granulated white sugar – Balances sweetness; mix sweeteners if adjusting sugar levels.
Egg yolks – Provide moisture and richness; use fresh eggs at room temperature.
Vanilla extract – Delivers delightful aroma; opt for pure extract for the best taste.

For the Texture

Old-fashioned oats – Contribute chewiness; avoid instant oats as they absorb moisture differently.
Cornflakes – Introduce a crunch and distinctive flavor; plain cornflakes work best without added sugar.

For the Finishing Touch

Flaky sea salt – Sprinkled on top; enhances the cookie’s sweetness when warm.

Get ready to enjoy your Cornflake Cookies as they come together beautifully with these ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Cornflake Cookies with Buttery Caramel Flavor

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy cookie removal. As the oven heats, gather all your ingredients and a large mixing bowl, preparing to whip up your delightful Cornflake Cookies.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, ensuring there are no lumps. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients, allowing the leavening agents to blend well and create the perfect balance needed for your cookies.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened salted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated white sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that rich, buttery flavor and tender texture characteristic of our Chewy Cornflake Cookies.

Step 4: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla
Now, add the egg yolks and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, mixing until the batter appears pale and fluffy—this should take another 1-2 minutes. This combination enriches the dough and enhances the sweet aroma, setting the stage for the delicious flavors in your cookies.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as this could lead to tough cookies; you want the dough to be soft and slightly sticky, providing the perfect base for your Cornflake Cookies.

Step 6: Fold in Oats and Cornflakes
Using a silicone spatula, gently fold in the old-fashioned oats and cornflakes until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Ensure the cornflakes maintain their crunch, as they will provide the delightful texture expected from Chewy Cornflake Cookies, enhancing your overall baking experience.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Utilize a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop to drop rounded portions of dough onto the lined baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows for even baking and creates those beautiful cookie shapes, so keep an eye on the spacing as you prepare the sheets for the oven.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the trays in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness. For chewy cookies, aim for about 10 minutes; if you desire a crispier edge, let them bake for the full 12 minutes, watching for a golden-brown color on the edges.

Step 9: Cool and Finish
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. While they’re still warm, use a cookie cutter to gently shape them if desired, and sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top. This finishing touch elevates the flavor and perfectly complements the sweetness of your delightful Cornflake Cookies.

What to Serve with Chewy Cornflake Cookies?

Imagine the warm aroma of fresh-baked cookies filling your kitchen, perfectly paired with delightful accompaniments for a complete treat experience.

Glass of Cold Milk: Nothing beats the classic combination. The creamy texture of milk complements the sweet and salty flavors of the cookies beautifully, making every bite even more delicious.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop a generous serving of this creamy delight on top of a warm cookie. The melting ice cream melds with the chewy texture, creating a heavenly experience that delights your senses.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of juicy fruits adds a bright and vibrant contrast to the sweetness of the cookies. The natural sweetness and crunch of apples and berries create a balanced palate.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For a chocolatey twist, serve a warm chocolate dipping sauce alongside your cookies. Dip them in for a decadent experience that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Coffee or Espresso: A rich coffee balances the sweetness, creating an indulgent experience perfect for afternoon treats or dessert after dinner. The warmth of the beverage enhances the inviting warmth of the cookies.
Peanut Butter Spread: Spread a thin layer of peanut butter on your cookie for a mouthwatering flavor explosion. The nutty creaminess pairs flawlessly with the chewy texture of the cookie.
Coconut Macaroons: Serve alongside these chewy cookies for an added layer of texture and flavor. The lightness of macaroons contrasts beautifully with the denser cookies, ensuring a delightful mix.
Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer a decadent sweet refreshment that harmonizes with the buttery flavor of the cookies, elevating your dessert experience to new heights.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: Keep it light and refreshing with a splash of sparkling water. The citrus notes will cleanse your palate between bites, enhancing the overall enjoyment of your delightful cookie spread.

Cornflake Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your cookies and explore new flavor dimensions that will tantalize your taste buds!

Nutty Surprise: Substitute some cornflakes with crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and depth. A lovely twist that complements the buttery note beautifully!
Chocolate Indulgence: Add 3/4 cup of chocolate chips or butterscotch chips to the batter for a sweet decadence. This change introduces a rich flavor that blends wonderfully with the cookie base.
Peanut Butter Bliss: Mix in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter for a nutty, rich taste that balances the sweetness splendidly. A cookie lover’s delight, it turns your treat into a satisfying sweet and salty adventure.
Almond Extract: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract to create a delightful, nutty flavor profile. Just a few drops will elevate the taste in a memorable way.
Coconut Delight: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist that’s both chewy and moist, adding a unique texture that transforms each bite.
Spicy Kick: Introduce a bit of cinnamon or even cayenne pepper to spice things up! A dash of heat will surprise and delight in every chew.
Dried Fruits: Fold in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a chewy, sweet burst in every mouthful. This adds both texture and a hint of tartness, making your cookies even more irresistible!
Matcha Magic: For a unique flavor, incorporate 1 tablespoon of matcha powder into the flour mix. This will add a subtle earthy flavor and a pop of color, making your cookies visually stunning!

Explore these variations to customize your Cornflake Cookies, and maybe give a try to my Cosmic Brownie Cookies for another delightful dessert experience!

Storage Tips for Cornflake Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your Cornflake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain that delightful chewiness and crunch.

Fridge: If you need to extend freshness, Cornflake Cookies can be refrigerated for up to a week. Just make sure they are in a tightly sealed container to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your cookies for up to 2 weeks. Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, with parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat frozen cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, bringing back their chewy goodness and fresh-baked aroma.

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Cornflake Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 2 days in advance by mixing and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. This not only allows the flavors to meld but also makes it more convenient to bake fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop out the dough onto lined baking sheets and bake as directed. For even easier meal prep, you could also freeze the scooped dough for up to 3 months; just bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time for these delightful Cornflake Cookies!

Tips for the Best Cornflake Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification, which leads to a creamier dough.
Measuring Flour: Use the spoon-and-Level method for measuring flour. Too much flour can make your cookies dry—accuracy is key!
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until combined to prevent tough Cornflake Cookies. A gentle hand keeps them soft and chewy.
Cool on Baking Sheet: Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them set while retaining some softness.
Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to add 3/4 cup of mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor and texture—just don’t overdo it!
Use Fresh Ingredients: Check the freshness of your baking powder and baking soda. Stale leavening agents can affect how well your cookies rise.

Cornflake Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of cornflakes should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, use plain cornflakes without added sugar. They add the perfect crunch and distinctive flavor that complements the chewy nature of the cookies. Avoid sugary or flavored varieties as they can affect the overall taste and sweetness of your Cornflake Cookies.

How should I store Cornflake Cookies to maintain freshness?
I recommend storing your Cornflake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This will help keep them chewy and maintain their delightful crunch. If you need them to last longer, you can also refrigerate them for up to a week in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze Cornflake Cookies, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cornflake Cookies, place them in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, making sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat straight from the freezer in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their chewy goodness.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too dry or crumbly?
If you find your cookie dough is a bit too dry, don’t fret! This can happen if there’s an imbalance of ingredients. Gradually add a tablespoon of milk or a bit of melted butter to the dough and mix until it reaches a soft, cohesive texture. The key is to ensure all dry ingredients are properly incorporated without overmixing, so fold gently!

Are Cornflake Cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Very! Cornflake Cookies can be made nut-free as the original recipe doesn’t include any nuts. However, if you plan to use mix-ins like chocolate chips or butterscotch chips, make sure they’re labeled as nut-free. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure safety, especially if serving someone with allergies.