These caramel cornflake bars are gooey, crunchy, and irresistibly chocolatey. Inspired by classic cereal treats, they combine crispy cornflakes with chewy marshmallows, rich caramel flavor, and a smooth chocolate topping finished with a touch of flaky salt. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These bars are quick to make and require no baking, making them perfect for busy days or last-minute desserts. They use simple, easy-to-find ingredients and come together in under 30 minutes. The cornflakes stay crisp, the marshmallow caramel mixture is perfectly chewy, and the thin chocolate layer adds just the right finishing touch. They are ideal for parties, lunchbox treats, or whenever a sweet craving hits.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Prepare a 9 x 13 inch pan by lightly greasing it and lining the bottom with parchment paper. Grease the parchment as well to ensure easy removal later.
In a large pot set over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted and smooth. Keep the heat moderate to prevent scorching.
Once the marshmallows are melted, stir in the caramel dip until fully combined and evenly blended.
Remove the pot from heat and gently fold in the cornflakes, stirring until all the flakes are well coated with the caramel marshmallow mixture.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Using lightly greased hands or a spatula, press it gently and evenly into the pan, making sure it reaches the corners without compacting it too firmly.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 15-second intervals, stirring well between each, until the chocolate is mostly melted. Stir until smooth using the residual heat.
Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the cornflake mixture. Let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes, then sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before lifting them out of the pan and cutting into squares.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 20 bars, depending on how large you cut them.
Preparation time is about 10 minutes, cooking time is 6 to 8 minutes, and cooling time is around 20 minutes, for a total time of about 35 minutes.
Variations
For extra caramel flavor, drizzle a small amount of caramel dip over the chocolate layer before it sets.
You can swap cornflakes for another crispy cereal if desired, keeping the same measurement.
Add a handful of chopped nuts or toffee-style candy pieces for extra crunch and texture.
Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a less sweet topping.
Storage/Reheating
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be refrigerated for up to 5 days if you prefer a firmer texture. Let refrigerated bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. Reheating is not recommended, as it can cause the chocolate and marshmallow to melt too much.
FAQs
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars are great for making a day in advance and storing in an airtight container.
Do the cornflakes get soggy?
When properly coated and stored, the cornflakes stay crisp for several days.
Can I use mini marshmallows?
Yes, mini marshmallows work well as long as the total weight is the same.
Is the flaky salt necessary?
No, but it enhances the sweetness and caramel flavor beautifully.
Can I freeze caramel cornflake bars?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cereal and chocolate can change.
What type of caramel dip works best?
A thick, creamy caramel dip provides the best flavor and consistency.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
You can use dark chocolate and reduce the chocolate layer slightly to balance the sweetness.
Why add coconut oil to the chocolate?
It helps the chocolate melt smoothly and spread easily.
How do I cut clean squares?
Use a sharp knife lightly coated with oil and cut once the bars are fully set.
Are these bars suitable for kids?
Yes, they are kid-friendly and great for parties and school treats.
Conclusion
Caramel cornflake bars are an easy, no-bake dessert that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. With their crunchy base, chewy caramel marshmallow center, and smooth chocolate topping, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making them for a celebration or a simple sweet treat at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
These caramel cornflake bars are no-bake treats made with crispy cornflakes coated in a gooey marshmallow-caramel mixture and topped with a smooth layer of chocolate. Finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, they’re easy, indulgent, and irresistibly crunchy.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
12 ounces marshmallows
7 ounces caramel dip
4 cups cornflakes
2 cups chocolate chips
2 teaspoons coconut oil or unsalted butter
Flaky sea salt, optional
Instructions
Lightly grease and line a 9 x 13 inch pan with parchment paper. Grease the parchment for easy removal.
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth.
Stir in caramel dip until fully blended. Remove from heat.
Gently fold in cornflakes until evenly coated.
Transfer mixture to the prepared pan and press evenly with greased hands or a spatula. Don’t compact too firmly.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Spread melted chocolate over the cornflake mixture. Let sit for 3–5 minutes, then sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
Cool completely at room temperature before slicing into bars.
Notes
Use dark chocolate chips for a less sweet version.
Add chopped nuts or toffee bits for extra texture.
Drizzle caramel over the chocolate layer for added flavor.
Store in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
Cut with a lightly greased knife for clean slices.
