No-Bake Cornflake Slice: An Easy and Delicious Treat

Cornflake slice is a classic, no-bake treat that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick, easy to make, and requires minimal ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for busy bakers and those new to the kitchen. This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re craving something sweet, salty, or a combination of both, this cornflake slice will surely satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **No-Bake:** No oven required! This is perfect for hot days or when you want a quick and easy dessert.
* **Easy to Make:** With just a few simple steps, even beginner bakers can nail this recipe.
* **Quick:** From start to finish, this treat can be ready in under an hour, including setting time.
* **Versatile:** Customize it with your favorite flavors and mix-ins.
* **Kid-Friendly:** A great activity to do with kids, and they’ll love eating it too!
* **Perfect for Lunchboxes:** Cut into squares or bars, this slice is ideal for school lunches.
* **Crowd-Pleaser:** Always a hit at parties and gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Cornflakes:** The star of the show! Use regular, unsweetened cornflakes for the best texture and flavor.
* **Butter:** Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together. Unsalted butter is recommended so you can control the saltiness.
* **Golden Syrup:** Provides sweetness and a chewy texture. If you can’t find golden syrup, you can substitute it with corn syrup or honey, but the flavor will be slightly different.
* **Sugar:** Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps create a smooth, glossy coating.
* **Cocoa Powder:** For a chocolatey flavor and a rich, dark color. Use unsweetened cocoa powder.
* **Optional Mix-Ins:** This is where you can get creative! Consider adding some of these:
* **Dried Fruit:** Raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots.
* **Nuts:** Chopped peanuts, almonds, walnuts.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Milk, dark, or white chocolate chips.
* **Marshmallows:** Mini marshmallows add a soft, chewy texture.
* **Desiccated Coconut:** Adds a tropical flavor and texture.
* **Sprinkles:** For a fun and festive touch.

Equipment You’ll Need

* **Large Mixing Bowl:** To combine all the ingredients.
* **Saucepan:** To melt the butter, syrup, and sugar.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate measurements.
* **Baking Pan:** An 8×8 inch square baking pan is ideal, but you can use other sizes as well. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
* **Parchment Paper:** To line the baking pan for easy removal.
* **Spatula or Wooden Spoon:** For mixing and pressing the mixture into the pan.

Step-by-Step Instructions

**Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan**

Line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This prevents the slice from sticking and makes it much easier to cut into squares.

**Step 2: Melt the Butter, Syrup, and Sugar**

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, golden syrup, sugar, and cocoa powder. Stir continuously until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved. Be careful not to overheat the mixture, as this can cause it to burn. The mixture should be smooth and glossy.

**Step 3: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients**

Remove the saucepan from the heat and pour the melted butter mixture over the cornflakes in the large mixing bowl. Gently fold the cornflakes into the mixture until they are evenly coated. Be careful not to crush the cornflakes.

**Step 4: Add Optional Mix-Ins (Optional)**

If you’re using any mix-ins, add them to the bowl now and gently fold them into the cornflake mixture. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout.

**Step 5: Press the Mixture into the Pan**

Pour the cornflake mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan. This will help the slice hold together when it sets.

**Step 6: Chill to Set**

Place the baking pan in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until the slice is firm to the touch. This allows the butter mixture to solidify and bind the cornflakes together.

**Step 7: Cut and Serve**

Once the slice is set, remove it from the refrigerator and lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into squares or bars. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Tips for Success

* **Don’t Overheat the Butter Mixture:** Overheating the butter mixture can cause it to become grainy and separate. Keep the heat on medium and stir constantly until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved.
* **Don’t Crush the Cornflakes:** Be gentle when mixing the cornflakes into the butter mixture to avoid crushing them. This will help maintain the texture of the slice.
* **Press the Mixture Firmly:** Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan is essential for ensuring that the slice holds together. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press down evenly.
* **Chill for Long Enough:** Make sure to chill the slice for long enough to allow the butter mixture to solidify. This will make it easier to cut and serve.
* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Using fresh ingredients will result in the best flavor and texture.
* **Adjust Sweetness to Taste:** If you prefer a less sweet slice, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe.
* **Add a Pinch of Salt:** A pinch of salt can enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.

Variations and Adaptations

* **Peanut Butter Cornflake Slice:** Add a few tablespoons of peanut butter to the butter mixture for a peanut butter flavor.
* **White Chocolate Cornflake Slice:** Replace the cocoa powder with melted white chocolate.
* **Salted Caramel Cornflake Slice:** Add a drizzle of salted caramel sauce to the top of the slice after it has set.
* **Honeycomb Cornflake Slice:** Crush some honeycomb candy and add it to the cornflake mixture.
* **Vegan Cornflake Slice:** Use vegan butter and syrup to make a vegan version of this recipe.
* **Gluten-Free Cornflake Slice:** Ensure that your cornflakes are certified gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

* Serve as a dessert or snack.
* Pack in lunchboxes for a sweet treat.
* Serve at parties and gatherings.
* Pair with a cup of tea or coffee.
* Top with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.

Storage Instructions

Store the cornflake slice in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

* Calories: 250-300
* Fat: 15-20g
* Saturated Fat: 10-12g
* Cholesterol: 30-40mg
* Sodium: 100-150mg
* Carbohydrates: 30-40g
* Sugar: 20-25g
* Protein: 2-3g

*Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

Cornflake Slice Recipe

**Yields:** 16 servings
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Chill time:** 30 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 6 cups cornflakes
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
* 1/2 cup golden syrup
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1/2 cup optional mix-ins (such as dried fruit, nuts, chocolate chips, marshmallows, or desiccated coconut)

**Equipment:**

* 8×8 inch square baking pan
* Parchment paper
* Large mixing bowl
* Saucepan
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Spatula or wooden spoon

**Instructions**

1. **Prepare the Baking Pan:** Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
2. **Melt the Butter, Syrup, and Sugar:** In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, golden syrup, sugar, and cocoa powder. Stir constantly until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved. Do not boil.
3. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and pour the melted butter mixture over the cornflakes in a large mixing bowl. Gently fold the cornflakes into the mixture until they are evenly coated.
4. **Add Optional Mix-Ins:** If using, add your chosen mix-ins (dried fruit, nuts, chocolate chips, etc.) and gently fold them into the cornflake mixture.
5. **Press into the Pan:** Pour the cornflake mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan.
6. **Chill:** Place the baking pan in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until the slice is firm.
7. **Cut and Serve:** Once the slice is set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares or bars and serve.

Enjoy Your Delicious No-Bake Cornflake Slice!

This cornflake slice is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll make again and again. Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins and variations to create your own signature cornflake slice. Happy baking!