Old-Fashioned Cornflake Candy – A Classic No-Bake Southern Treat: Welcome to Week Three of our 12 Weeks of Christmas Candy Series, where each week we share a new homemade candy recipe to make your holidays sweeter and more memorable! This week’s recipe is a true classic, Old-Fashioned Cornflake Candy.

This nostalgic Southern no-bake candy is the perfect mix of crunchy, chewy, and sweet, made with just a few pantry staples. It’s one of those old-time recipes that has stood the test of time, and for good reason! Whether you’re making it for a cookie exchange, holiday dessert tray, or gifting it in festive tins, this candy always brings a smile.

Why Cornflake Candy Belongs on Your Holiday Table

During the holidays, it’s all about easy, crowd-pleasing treats that travel well and look beautiful on dessert platters. Cornflake Candy checks every box, it’s:

• Nostalgic – it tastes just like grandma’s Christmas candy!
• Quick and no-bake – ready in minutes, perfect for busy holiday prep.
• Budget-friendly – made with simple ingredients you likely already have.

A Sweet Tradition

If you’ve been following along with our 12 Weeks of Christmas Candy, you’ve already seen some of our favorite old-fashioned favorites, and this one fits right in. Each week, we share a new recipe that captures the warmth and flavor of holiday memories, with a few fun twists along the way.

This Old-Fashioned Cornflake Candy is a great addition to your holiday lineup, especially if you love recipes that are:

• Perfect for holiday gift boxes or cookie swaps
• Great for kids to help make
• A wonderful way to bring back classic Christmas nostalgia

What Is Cornflake Candy?

Cornflake candy is a no-bake candy recipe made by coating crispy cornflakes in a sweet, buttery syrup. It’s similar in texture to a peanut butter cookie or rice krispie treat, but with an extra crunch and old-fashioned charm. Most traditional versions use peanut butter, sugar, and corn syrup, though some families add a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a modern twist.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Cornflake Candy

Old Fashioned Cornflake Candy: This old-fashioned Christmas candy has been around forever and is not only delicious but is fast and easy to make. With only a few easy-to-find ingredients, this crunchy candy will fit perfectly on your holiday goodie tray. The combination of crunchy peanut butter and the crunch from the cornflakes makes this candy stand out from other holiday treats. Scroll down for add-in ideas and how to make candy bars.

CHEWY HOLIDAY CANDY INGREDIENTS LIST-full printable recipe below in recipe card

• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup crunchy peanut butter
• 6 cups cornflakes cereal
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening

EASY TO MAKE NO-BAKE CANDY INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a saucepan, bring corn syrup and sugar to a boil. Cook, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in crunchy peanut butter and cornflakes. Mix well.
3. Drop a tablespoon of the candy mixture onto a piece of parchment paper.
4. Once the candy has cooled. Add white chocolate chips and shortening to a medium microwave-safe bowl. Heat until melted (about 1 minute).
5. Use a fork, a squeeze bottle, or a zip-top bag with a tiny hole cut on one corner to drizzle the mixture over the candy in a back-and-forth motion.

Tips for Perfect Cornflake Candy

• Don’t overcook the sugar mixture; it should just begin to bubble, not boil.
• Work quickly when mixing in the cornflakes so the candy doesn’t harden too soon.
• For a fun variation, try using Frosted Flakes or adding mini marshmallows for extra sweetness.

Storing and Serving

Store your cornflake candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. It’s ideal for holiday gift boxes, cookie swaps, or quick party treats.

Old-Fashioned Flavor, Timeless Appeal

If you love simple, no-fuss desserts that taste like home, Old-Fashioned Cornflake Candy deserves a spot in your recipe collection. It’s proof that sometimes the best treats are the ones that don’t need modern updates, just a little love and a few pantry staples. Whether you’re making it for Christmas, a church bake sale, or just because, this classic candy never fails to bring a smile.

10 Recipe Variations – Fun Twists on Classic Cornflake Candy

One of the best things about Old-Fashioned Cornflake Candy is how versatile it is! Once you’ve made the traditional version, you can easily switch things up with a few simple ingredient swaps. These variations are perfect for those who love experimenting in the kitchen or want to add a little variety to their holiday candy trays.

• CHOCOLATE CORNFLAKE CANDY: If you’re a chocolate lover, this version is pure bliss. Just stir ½ cup of melted chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark) into the peanut butter mixture before adding the cornflakes. You can also drizzle a little melted chocolate over the top once the candies have set for a pretty finish. Tastes like: a chocolate-covered peanut butter cup with crunch!
• BUTTERSCOTCH CORNFLAKE CANDY: For a buttery, caramel-like flavor, swap half (or all) of the peanut butter for butterscotch chips. The warm, sweet taste pairs beautifully with the crunch of the cornflakes and feels extra festive during the holidays. Tip: Sprinkle a little sea salt on top to balance the sweetness.
• MARSHMALLOW CORNFLAKE CANDY: Want something gooier and extra fun? Stir in 2 cups of mini marshmallows right after removing the mixture from the heat. They’ll melt just enough to make the candy soft and chewy with a hint of fluffiness that kids (and adults!) adore.
• CORNFLAKE CANDY WITHOUT PEANUT BUTTER: If you need a nut-free version, don’t worry, you can still enjoy this classic treat! Replace the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter, cookie butter, or even tahini. Each option offers a slightly different flavor while maintaining the creamy texture that holds the candy together.
• HONEY CORNFLAKE CANDY: Looking for a natural sweetener? Swap half of the corn syrup for honey. The flavor turns richer, with a warm sweetness that makes this version perfect for fall and winter. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top takes it to the next level.
• WHITE CHOCOLATE CORNFLAKE CLUSTERS: For a simple, elegant twist, coat your cornflakes in melted white chocolate instead of peanut butter syrup. Drop spoonfuls onto parchment paper and let them harden. They look beautiful on dessert trays and make wonderful edible gifts.
• FESTIVE HOLIDAY CORNFLAKE CANDY: Dress up your cornflake candy for the season! Before it sets, add holiday sprinkles, mini M&Ms, or even crushed peppermint on top. It’s an easy way to make your candy look as festive as it tastes.
• CRUNCHY MIX-INS: Add a little something extra! Stir in chopped pecans, coconut flakes, or pretzel bits for more flavor and texture. These mix-ins give the candy a gourmet feel, perfect for gifting or sharing at Christmas parties.
• SALTED CARAMEL CORNFLAKE CANDY: Drizzle each cluster with caramel sauce and finish with a pinch of sea salt. This sweet and salty combination is irresistible and turns a simple no-bake candy into a showstopper.
• CORNFLAKE CANDY BARS: Want something easy to slice and serve? Press the candy mixture into a 9×13-inch pan, let it cool, and cut it into squares. Another variation: Before cutting, pour melted chocolate over the top, spread to coat. These bars are perfect for bake sales, potlucks, or holiday dessert trays.

Bringing It All Together

No matter which version you choose, every batch of cornflake candy delivers that same old-fashioned charm we love, simple ingredients, cozy flavor, and a whole lot of nostalgia. Whether you stick with the classic or try something new, these easy variations will make your holiday candy trays sparkle with sweetness and variety.

Frequently Asked Questions About Old-Fashioned Cornflake Candy

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Old-Fashioned Cornflake Candy is proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones we treasure most. With just a few pantry staples and a little stirring, you can create a nostalgic treat that brings back childhood memories and spreads a little holiday cheer. Whether you’re making it as part of the 12 Weeks of Christmas Candy Series, sharing it with friends and neighbors, or sneaking a piece straight from the tin, this timeless candy never disappoints. Easy, crunchy, sweet, and full of old-fashioned flavor — it’s the perfect reminder that the best holiday traditions often start in the kitchen. ❤️Sheryl