Name: Deliciously Chewy Caramel Cornflake Brownies You’ll Love
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Cornflakes (plain, unfrosted); 1/2 cup Butter (or margarine); 1 cup Chocolate (high-quality dark); 1 cups Sugar (can use brown sugar); 1/2 cup Flour (gluten-free option available); 2 large Eggs (or flax eggs for egg-free); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (reduce for low-sodium); 1 cup Heavy Cream (or coconut cream); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (or almond extract); 2 cups Caramel Cornflake Mixture (mixed with caramel)

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“Did you hear that crunch?” That’s the sweet sound of pure bliss in your kitchen as you whip up these Quick Caramel Cornflake Brownies. The crispy cornflakes add an unexpected twist to the rich chocolate base, resulting in a treat that’s as texturally satisfying as it is delicious. Not only are these brownies a fantastic way to impress friends and family, but they also come together in a snap—perfect for those moments when you need a treat but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With a luscious homemade caramel drizzle on top, these brownies offer the perfect balance of sweet and crispy. Who can resist? Ready to dive into this delightful dessert experience?

Why Are These Brownies So Irresistible?

Simplicity: These Quick Caramel Cornflake Brownies come together effortlessly, with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Rich Chocolate: The deep, indulgent chocolate base pairs beautifully with the caramel, ensuring each bite is packed with satisfaction. Crunchy Surprise: The crispy cornflakes add an unexpectedly delightful texture, elevating these brownies from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you need a last-minute dessert or a kid-friendly treat, you can throw these together in no time! If you’re eager for more sweet delights, check out our Caramel Peach Dump or a savory spin with Vegan Caramelized Onion dip for that perfect snack pairing. Crowd-Pleaser: These brownies are sure to impress and will quickly disappear at any gathering!

Caramel Cornflake Brownie Ingredients

Get ready to create magic with these Caramel Cornflake Brownies!

For the Brownie Base

Cornflakes – Choose plain, unfrosted cornflakes for that perfect crispy topping.
Butter – A key ingredient that adds richness; feel free to use margarine if needed.
Chocolate – Opt for high-quality dark chocolate for a richer flavor that truly shines.
Sugar – Sweeten the brownie batter; swapping in brown sugar will give a softer texture.
Flour – Provides the structure you crave in brownies; gluten-free flour works too!
Eggs – Essential for binding; try flax eggs for an egg-free option.
Salt – Adds balance to the sweetness; consider reducing it for low-sodium versions.

For the Caramel

Heavy Cream – A must-have for a luscious caramel; coconut cream is a great dairy-free substitute.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances all flavors in the caramel; almond extract can be a lovely twist.

For the Topping

Caramel Cornflake Mixture – Mix cornflakes into your warm caramel; wait until slightly cooled to prevent sogginess.

These Caramel Cornflake Brownies will take your dessert game to the next level!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Caramel Cornflake Brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Begin by greasing an 8×8 inch square baking tin with butter or non-stick spray. Line the bottom and sides with parchment paper, allowing a little overhang for easy removal later. This preparation ensures that your Caramel Cornflake Brownies will come out effortlessly, maintaining their beautiful shape without sticking.

Step 2: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (or 180°C for fan ovens) or Gas Mark 6. This step is crucial as it allows your brownies to bake evenly, creating that perfect fudgy texture. When you’re ready to bake, the oven should be hot enough to ensure that the brownies rise just right.

Step 3: Melt Ingredients
Finely chop the high-quality dark chocolate and set aside. In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter, stirring gently to avoid burning. Once the butter is fully melted and bubbling, pour it over the chopped chocolate in a mixing bowl, letting it sit for a minute. Stir until the mixture is smooth, creating a luxurious chocolate base for your brownies.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In the same bowl, add the sugar to the melted chocolate and butter mixture, stirring until well combined. Gradually sift in the flour and salt, mixing until smooth. Finally, crack in the eggs, mixing until the batter is glossy and fully blended, ensuring no dry patches remain to make your Caramel Cornflake Brownies rich and decadent.

Step 5: Bake Brownies
Pour the luscious brownie batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly into the corners. Bake in your preheated oven for 35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; you want it to come out slightly gooey, indicating that the brownies will firm up as they cool.

Step 6: Cool Brownies
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling process is essential as it allows the texture to set and ensures they won’t crumble when you cut them. Patience here will lead to perfectly chewy Caramel Cornflake Brownies.

Step 7: Make Caramel
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, add granulated sugar and heat on medium without stirring until it melts and turns golden-amber, about 8-10 minutes. Once it reaches the desired color, slowly pour in the heavy cream, followed by butter, salt, and vanilla extract, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and reaches 118°C on a candy thermometer.

Step 8: Combine Cornflakes
Remove the caramel from heat and let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes. Stir in the cornflakes, ensuring they become evenly coated with the luscious caramel. This step is key, as well-coated cornflakes will ensure a perfect crispy topping without becoming too soggy when mixed with the warm caramel.

Step 9: Top Brownies
Once the brownies are completely cool, pour the caramel-coated cornflakes over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The caramel will glaze beautifully over the surface, giving your Caramel Cornflake Brownies a delightful texture and a sweet finish that contrasts perfectly with the rich chocolate base.

Step 10: Cool Completely
Allow the Caramel Cornflake Brownies to cool completely at room temperature, which should take about 30 minutes. This is an important step to let the caramel and cornflakes set properly. Once fully cooled, you can easily lift them out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares for serving.

Caramel Cornflake Brownies Variations

Time to get creative with your Caramel Cornflake Brownies! Customize this delightful dessert to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the brownie batter for a crunchy twist. The added nuts offer a beautiful contrast to the soft, fudgy brownies, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Chocolate Lovers: Use a combination of dark and milk chocolate for a sweeter brownie base. This variation will provide a perfect balance between rich and creamy chocolate notes that your family will adore.
Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a yummy alternative. Many gluten-free flours work wonderfully in brownie recipes, allowing everyone to enjoy these tasty treats!
Almond Joy: Add shredded coconut and a hint of almond extract for a tropical spin. This variation captures the essence of an Almond Joy and creates a delicious flavor profile that elevates your brownies.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of cinnamon into the brownie batter. This surprising twist adds warmth and depth to each bite, making your caramel brownies truly unforgettable.
Minty Fresh: Toss in a few drops of peppermint extract for a mint chocolate experience. The refreshing burst of mint paired with the rich chocolate creates a deliciously nostalgic treat reminiscent of your favorite mint chocolate candies.
Caramel Swirls: Instead of topping with the cornflake mixture, swirl in some homemade caramel sauce directly into the brownie batter before baking. This will give you a rich, gooey texture that complements the added crunch beautifully.

Feel free to experiment with these ideas and transform your Caramel Cornflake Brownies into a truly personalized dessert! If you’d like to explore more recipes, check out our delightful Caramel Peach Dump or the savory Vegan Caramelized Onion dip to complement your sweet adventures.

Make Ahead Options

These Quick Caramel Cornflake Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the brownie base up to 24 hours in advance; simply allow it to cool and cover it tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator to maintain its fudgy texture. The caramel cornflake topping can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days—just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to keep it crunchy. When you’re ready to serve, top the brownies with the caramel cornflake mixture and let it set for about 30 minutes. This way, you’ll have delicious, restaurant-quality brownies with minimal effort—ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!

What to Serve with Quick Caramel Cornflake Brownies

There’s nothing like indulging in a scrumptious dessert topped with sweet caramel and crispy cornflakes; let’s enhance that experience!

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the rich, chocolatey flavor, creating a delightful contrast.
Cold Milk: Sipping on a tall glass of cold milk complements the sweetness of the brownies, making each bite even more satisfying.

Imagine savoring a luscious brownie while a dollop of ice cream melts into it. This classic combo is bound to become a favorite at family gatherings!

Coffee: Serve alongside a steaming cup of coffee; the bitterness cuts through the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy berries add a refreshing burst, offering a delightful acidity against the rich dessert, creating a harmonious balance.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of airy whipped cream adds lightness and creaminess, making each bite feel indulgent yet airy.

Pairing these with your Caramel Cornflake Brownies will elevate your dessert experience to new heights, making every gathering memorable!

How to Store and Freeze Caramel Cornflake Brownies

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and delicious.

Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate the brownies in a sealed container for up to 1 week. This can help maintain the caramel’s consistency.

Freezer: Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer while retaining the delightful taste of caramel cornflake brownies.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

Expert Tips for Caramel Cornflake Brownies

Right Cornflake Timing: Add cornflakes to your caramel mixture once it has cooled down slightly (about 5 minutes). This ensures they don’t get soggy before topping the brownies.
Watch the Caramel: Keep a close eye on the melting sugar; stir minimally and aim for a golden-amber color to avoid burning and bitterness.
Don’t Overbake: Bake the brownies until they remain slightly gooey in the center. They’ll set perfectly as they cool, giving you that ideal fudgy texture.
Cool Completely: Allow the brownies and the topping to cool fully before cutting into squares. This will keep the layers intact and prevent a messy presentation.
Storage Secrets: Store your Caramel Cornflake Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their fabulous crunch and flavor for up to 5 days.

Caramel Cornflake Brownies Recipe FAQs

What type of cornflakes should I use for these brownies?
You should use plain, unfrosted cornflakes for the best texture and flavor in your Caramel Cornflake Brownies. Stale ones may become soggy and lose their crunch.

How should I store my Caramel Cornflake Brownies?
Store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh. If you’d like to extend their life, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week.

Can I freeze my brownies for later?
Absolutely! Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw them at room temperature and reheat briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

What if my caramel turns out too thick or too runny?
If your caramel is too thick, it may have cooked too long. To fix it, stir in a small amount of heavy cream over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too runny, cook it a bit longer until it reaches the right texture. Always have patience with caramel and keep an eye on the temperature!

Can my Caramel Cornflake Brownies accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, they can! Substitute regular butter with dairy-free margarine, use gluten-free flour, and for eggs, opt for flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg). This way, everyone can enjoy a sweet treat!

How do I know when my brownies are done baking?
For perfectly fudgy brownies, bake for 35 minutes and check their doneness using a toothpick—aim for it to come out with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out clean, they may be overbaked. And remember, they’ll firm up a little as they cool!