By Karyl Laeving. Updated December 26, 2025. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from 127 votes.
Easy Chocolate Cornflake Clusters are the ultimate no bake chocolate treat made with pantry staples and pure nostalgia. Crunchy cornflakes wrapped in glossy melted chocolate set into irresistible bite sized clusters that deliver maximum texture with minimal effort.
Table of Contents
Easy Chocolate Cornflake Clusters
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 18 clusters 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crunchy, glossy, no-bake Chocolate Cornflake Clusters made with just a few pantry staples. Melt chocolate, fold in cornflakes, scoop, chill, and enjoy a snappy, crispy treat that is perfect for parties, gifting, and lunchboxes.
Ingredients
4 cups cornflakes (about 120 g)
1 1/2 cups semi sweet or dark chocolate chips, or chopped chocolate (255 g)
1 tbsp coconut oil or unsalted butter (14 g)
Optional: pinch flaky sea salt
Optional add ins: 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (25 g) or 1/4 cup chopped nuts or seeds (30 g) or 1/4 cup dried fruit (35 g)
Instructions
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. Add chocolate and coconut oil (or butter) to a microwave safe bowl. Microwave in 30 second bursts, stirring well each time, until smooth. (Or melt over a double boiler.)
3. Add cornflakes to the melted chocolate and gently fold until evenly coated without crushing the flakes.
4. Fold in any optional add ins if using.
5. Scoop heaping tablespoonfuls into clusters on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Sprinkle with flaky salt or sprinkles if desired.
7. Chill 15 to 20 minutes, or until fully set. Serve at room temperature for the best crunch.
Notes
Chocolate: Use good quality chocolate for the smoothest melt and best snap.
Microwave tip: Stir between intervals even if the chips still look firm. They hold shape until stirred.
Texture: Do not press clusters flat. Keep them tall and craggy for maximum crunch.
Storage: Store airtight at cool room temperature up to 5 days, or refrigerate up to 10 days.
Freeze: Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw 10 minutes at room temperature before serving.
Variations: Stir in 2 tbsp peanut butter (32 g) with the chocolate for a nutty version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cluster
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 55 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
About This Recipe
What It Is
Chocolate Cornflake Clusters are a classic no bake dessert made by coating crispy cornflakes in melted chocolate, shaping them into small mounds, and chilling until firm. The result is a shiny, snappy, crunchy chocolate treat that feels both retro and timeless.
Why It Works
This recipe works because cornflakes provide a light, shattering crunch that contrasts beautifully with smooth melted chocolate. Adding a touch of coconut oil or butter improves the chocolate’s flow and finish, creating clusters that set firm without becoming chalky or brittle.
When To Make It
These clusters are perfect year round. Make them for holiday cookie trays, school parties, bake sales, movie nights, or last minute desserts when you need something fast and impressive.
Why You’ll Love It
- No oven, no mixer, no stress
- Ready in under 20 minutes
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
- Naturally customizable for kids and adults
- Perfect make ahead treat for gifting
Key Ingredients And Notes
Cornflakes
Classic plain cornflakes work best here. Look for flakes that are large and intact, not crushed. The structure of the flakes is what creates the signature crunch. Lightly crushing a small portion is fine, but avoid pulverizing them.
Chocolate
Use good quality dark or semi sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bars. Chocolate with 60 to 70 percent cocoa gives the best balance of sweetness and depth. According to King Arthur Baking, higher cocoa butter content improves melt quality and texture.
Coconut Oil Or Butter
A small amount helps the chocolate melt smoothly and set with a glossy finish. Coconut oil keeps the recipe dairy free while butter adds richness.
Optional Add Ins
Mini marshmallows, dried cranberries, chopped almonds, sunflower seeds, or shredded coconut all work beautifully. Keep add ins small so they do not weigh down the clusters.
Flaky Salt
A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the chocolate flavor and balances sweetness. This step is optional but highly recommended.
How To Make Easy Chocolate Cornflake Clusters
4
Step 1: Prepare The Pan
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Set aside.
Step 2: Melt The Chocolate
Add chocolate chips and coconut oil to a microwave safe bowl. Microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring well between each, until completely smooth. Alternatively, melt gently over a double boiler.
Step 3: Fold In Cornflakes
Add cornflakes to the melted chocolate. Use a silicone spatula to gently fold until all flakes are coated but still intact. Avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Add Extras
Fold in any optional add ins such as marshmallows or nuts.
Step 5: Shape The Clusters
Scoop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared tray. Do not flatten them. The peaks and ridges create texture.
Step 6: Finish And Set
Sprinkle lightly with flaky salt or sprinkles if desired. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes until firm.
Pro Tips For Success
- Always melt chocolate gently to avoid scorching
- Stir between microwave intervals even if it does not look melted yet
- Use room temperature cornflakes for best coating
- Do not press clusters flat or they will lose crunch
- Chill only until set to prevent condensation
- Store in a cool, dry place for best texture
- Use parchment to avoid sticking and smearing
Variations And Substitutions
Dairy Free Chocolate Cornflake Clusters
Use dairy free chocolate and coconut oil. Many dark chocolates are naturally dairy free but always check labels.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Cornflake Clusters
Stir 2 tablespoons peanut butter into the melted chocolate for a rich nutty version.
Holiday Chocolate Cornflake Clusters
Add crushed candy canes, festive sprinkles, or red and green mini candies for seasonal flair.
Lower Sugar Option
Use 85 percent dark chocolate and add unsweetened coconut flakes for balance. According to Healthline, darker chocolate contains less sugar and more antioxidants.
Serving And Storage
Serving
Serve clusters at room temperature on a dessert board or stacked in cupcake liners. They pair beautifully with fresh fruit, yogurt, or coffee. For a protein packed pairing, serve alongside Greek Yogurt Protein Cups (20g High Protein Snack) from FlavorAndRecipes.com.
Storage
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for up to 10 days.
Freezing
Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I Use Milk Chocolate Instead
Yes, but reduce the coconut oil slightly since milk chocolate melts softer and sets less firm.
Why Are My Clusters Soft
This usually means the chocolate overheated or too much oil was added. Chill longer or use slightly less fat next time.
Can Kids Make This Recipe
Absolutely. Adult supervision is needed for melting chocolate, but mixing and shaping are kid friendly steps.
Can I Add Cereal Mixes
Yes. Combining cornflakes with puffed rice or shredded wheat adds texture and visual interest.
Do These Travel Well
Yes. They are excellent for gifting and bake sales because they hold shape and do not crumble easily. For inspiration on presentation, BBC Good Food often highlights cluster style treats for gifting.
Conclusion
Easy Chocolate Cornflake Clusters are proof that the simplest recipes can be the most satisfying. With crisp cereal, silky chocolate, and endless customization options, this no bake classic deserves a permanent place in your recipe box.
If you loved this recipe, try No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Clusters (Healthy & Fast) or Easy Chocolate Coconut Clusters (Healthy No-Bake) next for more crunchy chocolate goodness.
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