Honey Roasted Cornflake Brownies Recipe

Chocolate, crunch, and a touch of unexpected nostalgia—these Honey Roasted Cornflake Brownies are the weeknight treat you’ll find yourself making again and again. Imagine rich, fudgy brownies topped with silky chocolate ganache, crowned by crisp, caramelized honey cornflakes, and a sprinkle of sea salt. It’s the ultimate combo of gooey and crunchy, sweet and salty, and it comes together with just a handful of pantry staples. If you love desserts that deliver both big flavors and irresistible texture, you’re in for a serious treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break down what you need and why each ingredient matters:

• Brownie Box Mix: The foundation—choose your favorite. Dense, chewy, or cakey brownies all work here. Using butter instead of oil adds extra richness.
  • Tip: Don’t skip the egg! It gives structure and moisture to the brownies.
• Chocolate Chips: The hero of the ganache. Go for semi-sweet, dark, or milk—whatever matches your sweet tooth.
  • Pro tip: Better chocolate equals better ganache!
• Cream: Adds silky smoothness to the ganache, both for the layer over the brownies and the drizzle on top.
  • Note: Heavy cream works best, but half-and-half is okay in a pinch.
• Cornflakes: Brings that irresistible crunch. Go for plain, unsweetened cornflakes for more control over sweetness.
• Honey: Sweetens and helps “glue” the cornflakes together. The floral flavor of honey gives complexity you can’t get from sugar alone.
• Flaked Sea Salt: Just a touch—this really makes the chocolate and honey flavors sing.
  • Don’t skip this. Flaked salt (like Maldon) is perfect, but kosher salt works as well.

Variations

• Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the honey cornflake mixture for extra crunch and a nutty twist.
• Spice is Nice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or flaky chili salt to the cornflakes before baking for a subtle warmth.
• More Chocolate: Stir mini chocolate chips into the brownie batter or sprinkle them on top of the ganache.
• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free brownie mix and gluten-free cornflakes—nobody will know the difference.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute plant-based butter and coconut cream in the ganache for a delicious, dairy-free version.

How to Make Honey Roasted Cornflake Brownies

Step 1: Bake the Brownies

Prepare the boxed brownies using melted butter (instead of oil) and eggs as directed. Pour into a lined or greased 8×8 or 9×9 pan and bake as the package instructs. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before the next step.
The aroma alone will make it hard to wait, but trust—this bit of patience pays off!

Step 2: Make the Ganache

In a microwave-safe bowl, add chocolate chips and 1/3 cup cream. Microwave for 1 minute. Whisk until completely smooth and glossy. If you see lumps, pop it back in for another 30 seconds and stir again.
Spread about two-thirds of the ganache in an even layer over the cooled brownies.

To the remaining third of the ganache, add the last 3 tablespoons of cream and whisk until runny and pourable. Set aside for the finishing drizzle.

Step 3: Prepare the Honey Roasted Cornflakes

Line a baking sheet with parchment. Add cornflakes and drizzle with honey. Toss until every flake is coated. Bake at 350°F for 5 minutes, then remove and sprinkle liberally with flaked sea salt. Toss again and return to the oven for 5 more minutes, keeping a close eye—they should turn golden but not burn.

Step 4: Assemble

Working quickly while the cornflakes are still warm and tacky from the honey, gently spoon them over the thick layer of ganache. Spread into an even layer, covering every inch of the chocolate. Press down lightly so they stick. Drizzle the reserved ganache-cream mixture across the top for a glossy, gorgeous finish.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Let the assembled brownies cool to room temperature—this helps the ganache set and gives you those sharp, bakery-style cuts. Slice into squares and admire your handiwork!

How to Serve

These brownies are a statement all on their own, but they’re also fabulous paired with:

• A Tall Glass of Milk: Classic, and it doesn’t get old.
• Espresso or Coffee: The bitterness balances the sweet and makes each bite even more decadent.
• Fresh Berries: For a pop of tartness, serve with raspberries or strawberries.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Warm the brownie up for 10 seconds in the microwave, top with a scoop—pure joy.

Sprinkle a little extra flaked sea salt or drizzle with extra honey just before serving for that finishing flourish!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any extra brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer freshness, store them covered in the fridge. The ganache and cornflare topping stay delicious for days!

Freezing

Once cooled and cut, you can freeze these brownies. Place them in a single layer or with parchment between layers in a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Let brownies come to room temperature before serving, or microwave for just 5-10 seconds for a slightly gooey texture. If frozen, let them thaw overnight in the fridge or for an hour at room temperature before eating.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

These Honey Roasted Cornflake Brownies are proof that sometimes the simplest ideas truly are the best. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you turn a basic brownie mix into a dessert that bursts with different flavors and textures. Whether you stick to the classic version or get creative with your own mix-ins, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this treat. Don’t wait for a special occasion—this recipe is easy enough for any night of the week and sure to brighten your day. Give them a try—you’ll find yourself making them on repeat!

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