Incredible Caramel Cornflake Brownies: 20-Min Prep

July 26, 2025

Incredible Caramel Cornflake Brownies have become my absolute go-to for a truly decadent dessert experience. I first stumbled upon this irresistible combination when I was looking for an incredible caramel cornflake brownie recipe that was a little out of the ordinary. The moment I took my first bite of these homemade caramel cornflake brownies, I was hooked! The rich, fudgy brownie base paired with the sweet, salty crunch of the caramelized cornflakes is pure magic. The aroma alone, a mix of chocolate and toasted caramel, fills my kitchen and makes everyone come running. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love These Incredible Caramel Cornflake Brownies

Get ready for a brownie experience like no other! These incredible caramel cornflake brownies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for so many reasons:

Unforgettable Flavor: The perfect marriage of rich, fudgy chocolate and sweet, crunchy caramel cornflakes creates a truly magical taste sensation.
Sweet and Salty Perfection: You’ll adore the delightful balance of sweet and salty notes in every bite, making them utterly addictive.
Quick & Easy Prep: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, these are a fantastic option for a quick dessert fix.
Budget-Friendly Bliss: Using simple pantry staples, these brownies are surprisingly economical to make.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike rave about the unique texture and irresistible flavor combination.
Simply Sweet and Salty: These sweet and salty cornflake brownies hit all the right notes, satisfying any craving.
Impressive Presentation: The crunchy topping makes these brownies look as good as they taste, perfect for sharing.

Ingredients for Incredible Caramel Cornflake Brownies

Making these homemade caramel cornflake brownies is a breeze with these simple ingredients. You’ll need the basics for a rich, fudgy brownie base, plus the star players for that incredible crunch:

1 cup unsalted butter – melted for a smooth batter
2 cups granulated sugar – for sweetness and structure
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances all the chocolatey goodness
4 large eggs – at room temperature for better incorporation
1 cup all-purpose flour – the base of our brownie
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – use a good quality one for deep chocolate flavor
1 teaspoon baking powder – for a little lift
½ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness
2 cups cornflakes – the key to that amazing crunch!
1 cup caramel sauce – a thick, pourable sauce works best
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional) – for extra pockets of chocolate
Sea salt, for garnish (optional) – a sprinkle on top really elevates the sweet and salty profile

How to Make Incredible Caramel Cornflake Brownies

Follow these simple steps to create the best caramel cornflake brownies ever. This easy caramel cornflake brownie recipe is designed for maximum flavor and that signature chewy texture!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. This makes these homemade caramel cornflake brownies a breeze to handle.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, melt the 1 cup unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly for a few minutes.
Step 3: Stir the 2 cups granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the slightly cooled butter. Add the 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. This dry mix is crucial for the brownie’s structure.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients from Step 4 to the wet ingredients in the saucepan. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing can lead to tough brownies, and we want chewy caramel cornflake brownies!
Step 6: Spread the brownie batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. You’ll notice a rich, fudgy consistency.
Step 7: Bake for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with moist crumbs attached – not wet batter.
Step 8: While the brownies are baking, prepare the topping. In a bowl, combine the 2 cups cornflakes and 1 cup caramel sauce. Toss gently until the cornflakes are well coated. If you’re adding them, fold in the ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips at this stage.
Step 9: Once the brownies are out of the oven, immediately spread the caramel-coated cornflake mixture evenly over the hot brownies. Press down gently so it adheres well.
Step 10: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. This cooling time is essential for the topping to set and for achieving those perfect, clean cuts.

Pro Tips for the Best Incredible Caramel Cornflake Brownies

Want to elevate your brownie game? These tips will ensure your incredible caramel cornflake brownies are absolutely perfect:

Use a good quality, thick caramel sauce. A thin sauce can make the cornflake topping soggy.
Don’t overbake the brownies! A toothpick with moist crumbs is ideal for that chewy texture.
Press the cornflake topping down firmly while the brownies are still hot so it adheres well.
For an extra touch of decadence, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt over the caramel cornflake topping just before it sets.

What’s the secret to perfect incredible caramel cornflake brownies?

The true secret to the best caramel cornflake brownies ever lies in the balance of textures and flavors. Using a rich, fudgy brownie base and a generous coating of caramel on the cornflakes ensures every bite is a delightful mix of chewy, crunchy, sweet, and salty.

Can I make incredible caramel cornflake brownies ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the brownie batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just ensure it’s covered tightly. The topping is best added fresh after baking.

How do I avoid common mistakes with incredible caramel cornflake brownies?

A couple of common pitfalls include overmixing the batter, which leads to tough brownies, and overbaking, which results in dry ones. Also, be sure to let the brownies cool sufficiently before cutting to prevent them from falling apart.

Best Ways to Serve Incredible Caramel Cornflake Brownies

These incredible caramel cornflake brownies are a showstopper on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a few complementary treats. For an extra chocolatey indulgence, consider serving them alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re a true chocolate lover, you might even enjoy these as part of a dessert board with other chocolate caramel cornflake brownies or rich chocolate cookies. They’re also fantastic with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee.

Nutrition Facts for Incredible Caramel Cornflake Brownies

Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving for these delightful sweet and salty cornflake brownies. Keep in mind these are approximations:

Calories: 350 kcal
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: N/A
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: N/A
Fiber: N/A
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Incredible Caramel Cornflake Brownies

Once your incredible caramel cornflake brownies have cooled completely, proper storage is key to maintaining their delicious texture. For short-term enjoyment, keep your homemade caramel cornflake brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bring them to room temperature from the fridge or freezer. For a warm treat, you can gently warm them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds, being careful not to overheat them and melt the caramel too much.

Frequently Asked Questions About Incredible Caramel Cornflake Brownies

What are caramel cornflake brownies?

These delightful treats are a fusion of classic fudgy brownies and a crunchy, sweet topping made from caramel-coated cornflakes. They offer a unique textural contrast that makes them incredibly satisfying and a step above your average brownie. Many consider them the ultimate sweet and salty dessert.

How do I make incredible caramel cornflake brownies?

To make them, you’ll bake a rich, fudgy brownie base and then top it with a mixture of cornflakes and caramel sauce while it’s still warm. The heat from the brownies helps the caramel adhere to the cornflakes, creating that signature crunchy layer. It’s a straightforward process, perfect for bakers of all levels.

Can I add other toppings to my incredible caramel cornflake brownies?

Absolutely! While the caramel cornflake topping is fantastic on its own, feel free to get creative. Many people love to add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the cornflake mixture before spreading it on the brownies for extra chocolatey goodness. Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts also add a lovely extra crunch and flavor dimension.

Why are my caramel cornflake brownies not chewy?

If your brownies aren’t chewy, it often comes down to overbaking or using too much flour. Make sure to bake them until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs, not completely dry. Also, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can develop the gluten too much, leading to a tougher, less chewy texture. Using the right ratio of wet to dry ingredients is key to achieving that perfect chewy consistency.

Variations of Incredible Caramel Cornflake Brownies You Can Try

While this incredible caramel cornflake brownie recipe is fantastic as is, don’t be afraid to get creative! Here are a few variations to explore for your next batch of homemade caramel cornflake brownies:

Salted Caramel Twist: For those who love a sweet and salty kick, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the caramel cornflake topping just before it sets. This transforms them into delightful salted caramel cornflake brownies.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Easily make these gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend. Ensure your cornflakes are also certified gluten-free.
White Chocolate Drizzle: After the caramel cornflake topping has cooled slightly, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top for an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal.
Peanut Butter Swirl: Gently swirl some peanut butter into the brownie batter before baking, or mix some into the caramel cornflake topping for a nutty, decadent twist inspired by a classic cornflake crunch brownies recipe.

Incredible Caramel Cornflake Brownies: 20-Min Prep

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Author: Fenna Saul
Total Time: Over 1 hour (including 30 minutes cooling)
Yield: 12-16 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Incredible Caramel Cornflake Brownies are a delightful dessert that combines rich, fudgy brownies with a crispy, caramelized cornflake topping for a unique texture and flavor experience.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 large eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
2 cups cornflakes
1 cup caramel sauce
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
Sea salt, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Stir in granulated sugar and vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While brownies bake, combine cornflakes and caramel sauce in a bowl until the cornflakes are coated.
If using, fold chocolate chips into the coated cornflakes.
Once brownies are done, remove from oven and immediately spread the cornflake mixture on top, pressing gently.
Allow brownies to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before lifting out with parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh ingredients and high-quality cocoa powder.
Check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs.
Allow brownies to cool completely before cutting for clean slices and optimal texture.
Experiment with adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping for extra crunch.
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Homemade caramel sauce can be used; ensure it is thick enough to coat the cornflakes.
Wipe a sharp knife clean between cuts for neat slicing.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Category: Desserts
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American