Name: Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 240 g creamy peanut butter (Use high-quality peanut butter for best flavor and texture.); 250 ml golden syrup or honey (Honey can be used as a substitute for golden syrup.); 110 g cornflakes (Measure accurately for the best texture.)

Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars are a delightful treat that can satisfy your sweet tooth while also delivering a delightful crunch. These bars combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with the satisfying texture of cornflakes, creating a snack that is both delicious and easy to make. Perfect for a quick energy boost during your busy day or as an after-school snack for the kids, these bars will quickly become a favorite in your household.

The recipe for Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars is straightforward, requiring just a few simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. The combination of peanut butter and golden syrup, or honey if you prefer, provides a beautifully sweet and nutty flavor that is complemented by the cornflakes’ delightful crunch. These bars are not only quick to prepare but also require minimal cooking, making them an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. With just a little bit of effort, you can create a treat that is sure to impress.

Why make this recipe

Making Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars is an excellent way to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. These bars can be prepared in about 30 minutes, though they will need some chilling time to set properly. The simplicity of the recipe also means that they can be customized in various ways to suit your taste — think about adding chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra flavor punch. This flexibility makes it a fun treat to make with children, as they can help mix the ingredients and suggest their own variations.

Another compelling reason to try this recipe is the nutritional value packed within each bar. Peanut butter is a great source of protein and healthy fats, while cornflakes provide a satisfying crunch and lightness. When combined with a touch of sweetness from either golden syrup or honey, you get a balanced snack that can keep your energy levels up throughout the day. Also, by making them at home, you can control the ingredients, ensuring that you avoid any unwanted preservatives or additives often found in store-bought snacks.

How to make Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars

To start making your Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars, gather all your ingredients and equipment, ensuring that everything is ready for a smooth preparation process. Begin by lining a square baking tin with nonstick baking paper. This is crucial because it makes removal of the bars easier once they have set, ensuring you get nice, clean edges. In a large saucepan, combine your creamy peanut butter and golden syrup or honey. Warm this mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. The goal here is to melt them together to create a uniform mixture without overheating and burning.

Once the peanut butter and syrup are melted and well combined, remove the saucepan from the heat. The next step is crucial: add in the cornflakes and gently fold them into the mixture until they are fully coated. Take your time with this step to ensure that each cornflake gets the delicious peanut butter coating. After all the cornflakes are coated, spoon the mixture into your prepared baking tin. Press it down firmly and evenly to create a solid bar structure. The more firmly you pack it, the better the bars will hold together when cut.

After you have pressed the mixture into the tin, place it in the refrigerator to chill for 1 to 2 hours. This time allows the peanut butter mixture to set, resulting in bars that hold their shape well. Once set, remove from the fridge and cut the slab into 16 equal bars. You can store these in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, ensuring that they remain fresh and delicious.

Ingredients

240g (¾ cup + 2 tbsp) creamy peanut butter
250ml (1 cup) golden syrup or honey
110g (4 cups) cornflakes

Directions

Line a 20cm (8in) square baking tin with nonstick baking paper.
Add the peanut butter and golden syrup (or honey) to a large saucepan. Warm over medium heat, stirring constantly, until fully melted and combined.
Remove from the heat and add the cornflakes. Fold until all the cornflakes are completely coated.
Spoon the mixture into the prepared tin and press down firmly.
Chill in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours until set.
Cut into 16 bars and enjoy.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Time Breakdown

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1–2 hours
• Total Time: 1–2 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: 16

How to serve Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars

Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars can be served in various delightful ways, making them versatile treats for different occasions. One of the simplest ways to enjoy them is straight out of the refrigerator for a refreshing snack. The chilled texture complements the crunch of the cornflakes and the creaminess of the peanut butter beautifully. If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, consider drizzling some melted dark chocolate over the top before slicing. This addition will provide an extra layer of richness and decadence that pairs wonderfully with the flavors already present.

These bars also make for a fantastic addition to lunchboxes, whether for kids heading off to school or adults bringing their meals to work. They are easy to pack and carry, providing a filling and energy-boosting option that can stave off hunger between meals. You could even serve them at gatherings, cut into smaller squares for bite-sized treats that everyone can enjoy. Pair them with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a delightful afternoon snack.

How to store Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars

Proper storage of your Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars is crucial to maintaining their freshness and texture. Once they have completely cooled and set in the refrigerator, slice them into individual bars and transfer them to an airtight container. It is advisable to layer the bars with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together, especially since the peanut butter may soften slightly after being out of the fridge.

You can keep these bars in the refrigerator for up to three days without losing flavor or texture. However, if you want to store them for a longer period, consider freezing them. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag. They can be kept frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, just remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and you’ll have a delicious treat ready to eat.

Tips to make Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars

To achieve the best possible results with your Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars, consider a few handy tips. First, ensure that your peanut butter is of good quality for the best flavor and texture. If you’re using a natural peanut butter, ensure that it’s well mixed before measuring, as the oil can separate. Another essential tip is to measure your cornflakes accurately; too much or too little can change the texture of the bars significantly.

When it comes to pressing the mixture into the tin, using a flat-bottomed spatula or even a piece of parchment paper can make this task much easier, allowing you to evenly distribute the pressure without sticking. Experimenting with additional ingredients is also a fun way to personalize the bars. You could mix in nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for added texture and flavor giving each bite a unique twist.

Variation

No major variations, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fat: 6 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 50 mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
A: Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture to the bars, though the creamy version gives a smoother consistency.

Q: How long do the bars stay fresh?
A: The bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If frozen, they can last for up to two months.

Q: Can I add protein powder to the mixture?
A: Yes, you can mix in a scoop of protein powder to add nutritional value, but you may need to adjust the other ingredients slightly to maintain the right texture.