Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies Recipe
If you’re hunting for an irresistibly nostalgic treat that’s crunchy, gooey, and satisfyingly sweet, Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies hit the mark every single time. These no-bake cookies come together in a matter of minutes and make the perfect snack for satisfying a peanut butter craving or to share at any gathering. Classic in every sense, they’re beloved for their simplicity and big, bold flavor that comes from just a handful of straightforward pantry ingredients. Whether it’s a bake sale, after-school treat, or a midnight snack attack, Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies are pure joy in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe leans on ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, yet each one plays a starring role. The combination of creamy peanut butter, golden cornflakes, and just the right touch of vanilla makes these cookies a treat that wins over adults and kids alike.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that glossy candy coating that holds the cookies together.
- Light Corn Syrup: Brings the sticky, chewy texture that binds the cornflakes and makes each bite deliciously gooey.
- Creamy Peanut Butter: The main flavor hero, infusing every cookie with rich, nutty goodness.
- Cornflake Cereal: Provides crunch and structure; choose fresh, crisp cornflakes for best results.
- Vanilla Extract: Lends warmth and balances out the sweetness for a classic homemade taste.
- Pinch of Salt: Just a touch enhances the peanut butter and ties together all the flavors.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step isn’t just about making clean-up easier—it keeps your cookies from sticking and helps them set up with smooth, crisp bottoms. Be sure your sheet is ready before you begin, because the mixture sets quickly!
Step 2: Cook the Sugar and Syrup
In a large saucepan set over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar and light corn syrup. Stir constantly with a heatproof spatula or wooden spoon until the mixture starts to bubble around the edges and just reaches a gentle boil. This process only takes a couple minutes, so don’t walk away!
Step 3: Stir in the Peanut Butter and Vanilla
Remove the pan from the heat and immediately add your creamy peanut butter, vanilla extract, and that all-important pinch of salt. Stir the mixture briskly until it’s smooth and fully combined, creating a glossy peanut butter base.
Step 4: Mix in the Cornflakes
Add your cornflake cereal straight into the pan. With patience and a light touch, gently fold the cornflakes into the warm peanut butter mixture until each flake is coated and glistening. Try not to crush the cornflakes—they’re what gives Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies their signature crunch.
Step 5: Form the Cookies
Now it’s go-time! Using a spoon (or a small cookie scoop), drop heaping spoonfuls of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. The cookies start to set almost immediately, so work swiftly here. If you like a more rustic, chunky look, just let the clusters fall naturally.
Step 6: Cool and Set
Let your Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies cool completely on the baking sheet. Once they’re firm to the touch and set, peel them from the parchment and prepare for serious snacking. For a special touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the tops once cooled.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies

Garnishes
These cookies are delightful as-is, but you can have fun dressing them up. Try a drizzle of dark or white chocolate, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or crushed roasted peanuts on top just before the cookies set for extra flair and flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies with a tall glass of cold milk or a rich hot chocolate for the ultimate comfort combo. For gatherings, set them out with fresh fruit like strawberries, or as part of a bigger cookie platter with brownies and classic chocolate chip cookies to keep everybody happy.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack a few in clear treat bags tied with ribbon for sweet homemade gifts. Layer them in festive tins for holidays, or use a tiered stand for beautiful party displays. You can even crumble them slightly and serve over ice cream for a playful dessert twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They’ll stay crunchy yet delightfully chewy, making them a fantastic grab-and-go snack.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
Reheating
These cookies don’t need reheating, but if you love extra gooeyness, microwave a cookie for about 5 seconds to soften it a notch. Just don’t overdo it, or they’ll become too sticky.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter in this recipe?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a lovely texture to your Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies, giving each bite a little extra nutty crunch. Just make sure to stir well so the mixture stays smooth.
Are these cookies gluten free?
They can be! Simply look for certified gluten-free cornflake cereal to ensure your Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies are safe for those avoiding gluten. Most of the other ingredients are naturally gluten free.
What can I use instead of corn syrup?
If you want to swap out the corn syrup, try an equal amount of honey or golden syrup. The texture may be slightly different, but the cookies will still bind together and taste wonderful.
How do I keep the cookies from sticking to the spoon?
A quick trick is to lightly grease your spoon or cookie scoop with a little butter or neutral oil before scooping. This helps release the sticky peanut butter mixture with much less mess.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe scales up beautifully! Simply double all the ingredients and use a large saucepan. Just make sure to work quickly when shaping the cookies, since the mixture can set faster in bigger batches.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving an easy treat full of comfort and nostalgia, these Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies are truly a must-try. You’ll love how quickly they come together and how impossibly delicious every crunchy, peanut-buttery bite can be. Give them a go—you’ll find yourself making them again and again!
Print
Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies are a delightful no-bake treat that combines the rich flavor of peanut butter with the crunch of cornflakes. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients
For the cookies:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 6 cups cornflake cereal
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cook the mixture: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and corn syrup. Stir until it boils gently. Remove from heat.
- Add peanut butter and seasonings: Stir in peanut butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Coat with cornflakes: Add cornflakes and fold gently until fully coated.
- Form cookies: Quickly drop spoonfuls onto the baking sheet.
- Cool and serve: Let the cookies cool completely until set before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, drizzle with melted chocolate once cooled.
- Work quickly as these cookies set fast when dropping onto the baking sheet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop, No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg