What’s better than a quick, scrumptious dessert that beckons from the kitchen, ready to brighten your day? Let me introduce you to my delightful Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars! These chewy squares blend the whimsical tastes of sweet marshmallows and creamy peanut butter, all held together by crunchy cornflakes. Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up—no baking required—but they’re also a budget-friendly treat that beckons for family gatherings, outdoor adventures, or even a simple afternoon snack. Whether you’re craving something nostalgic or looking for a fun project to do with the kids, this recipe has you covered. Curious about how to make these tasty bars that everyone will adore? Let’s dive in!

Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars ephttz

Why are Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars Amazing?

Quick and Easy: You’ll love how simple it is to whip up these bars with minimal effort—no baking required! Perfect for those busy days when you need a sweet fix.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: The delightful combination of marshmallows and peanut butter will have everyone reaching for more, making them a hit at parties or family picnics.

Nostalgic Flavor: Enjoy the whimsical taste reminiscent of childhood treats, this recipe brings back those cozy memories while offering a fresh twist.

Versatile Variations: Want to switch it up? Try experimenting with almond butter or add chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor!

Budget-Friendly Delight: With just a handful of ingredients, these bars are a true cost-effective snack that won’t break the bank. So gather your ingredients and let the fun begin!

Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars Ingredients

For the Base

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; brown it for a deeper taste.
Mini Marshmallows – Provide sweetness and a chewy texture; use extra for a delightful spotty appearance.
Smooth Peanut Butter – Adds creaminess and depth; choose natural peanut butter for a healthier twist.
Cornflake Cereal – Offers crunch and structure; feel free to substitute with your favorite cereals, but note the texture will change.

Optional Add-ins

Chocolate Chips – Add these for extra sweetness and indulgence; they melt beautifully into the mixture.
Dried Fruit – Introduce a fruity burst for added flavor and chewiness, making these bars even more delightful.
Nuts – Chopped nuts can enhance crunch and provide a nutty flavor; just be mindful of allergies.

Get ready to enjoy creating these Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars that everyone will rave about!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars

Step 1: Prepare Pan
Begin by greasing an 8×8 inch baking pan with nonstick spray, ensuring an even layer covers the bottom and sides for easy removal. If using a nonstick pan, you can skip this step. Prepping your pan properly lays the foundation for beautifully cut Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars.

Step 2: Brown Butter
In a large saucepan, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir frequently as it heats, watching closely for a nutty aroma and a golden-brown color, which will take about 5-7 minutes. This browning process enhances the flavor, making your bars extra delicious, so keep it on the heat until you achieve that perfect color.

Step 3: Melt Marshmallows
Once your butter is browned, add in 4 cups of mini marshmallows to the saucepan. Stir continuously for about 2-4 minutes until the marshmallows completely melt and blend into a smooth mixture. The melted marshmallows will create a gooey base that helps bind the Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars together beautifully.

Step 4: Incorporate Peanut Butter
Remove the saucepan from heat and mix in 1 cup of smooth peanut butter, stirring until well combined and creamy. This should take about 2 minutes. The peanut butter should meld seamlessly with the marshmallow blend, resulting in a rich, luscious mixture that enhances the sweetness and adds depth to your bars.

Step 5: Mix in Cornflakes
Gently fold in 3 cups of cornflake cereal, ensuring every piece is well coated in the peanut butter-marshmallow mixture. This folding process takes about 1-2 minutes, and you should see the cornflakes fully enveloped in the gooey goodness. Optionally, add extra mini marshmallows for texture and flavor—this step makes your Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars even more delightful.

Step 6: Set the Mixture
Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it out with a spatula or your hands to create an even layer. Press down firmly to compact the mixture, ensuring it holds together when set. Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, which will help them firm up and make slicing easier later.

Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars qeczu1

Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars

Browning Butter: Keep a close eye while browning the butter to avoid burning; this step enhances the flavor of your bars tremendously.
Cooling Time: Be patient! Allow the bars to cool for a full 30 minutes before slicing to ensure they hold their shape nicely.
Using Parchment: For easy removal and cleanup, consider lining your pan with parchment paper before adding the mixture—this will save you time later.
Measuring Peanut Butter: If using natural peanut butter, make sure it’s well-stirred before measuring to maintain a smooth consistency in your bars.
Storing Properly: Keep your Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars in an airtight container to maintain their freshness for up to 2 days at room temperature or a week in the refrigerator.
Texture Tips: Experiment with adding chopped nuts or extra mini marshmallows for delightful texture variations in your bars!

Make Ahead Options

These Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars are fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare the mixture and press it into the pan up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to enjoy the they are ready for a last-minute sweet treat. Simply store the mixture in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its delightful chewiness. When you’re ready to serve, slice the bars into squares and enjoy! For the best results, it’s recommended that you store the finished bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and delicious. Trust me, with these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars

Room Temperature: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their chewy texture and freshness.

Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate your Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars in an airtight container, where they can last up to a week without losing their delightful taste.

Freezer: If you want to store them longer, freeze the bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, microwave individual bars for about 10-15 seconds. This brings back the gooeyness of the marshmallows, making them delightful again!

Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these delicious bars to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for a nut-free version that still brings creaminess.
This way, you can enjoy the same chewy texture without any nut allergens in sight!
Vegan: Swap out the butter for coconut oil and use vegan mini marshmallows to create a plant-based delight.
The flavor may slightly change, but the gooey goodness will still shine through, making it a crowd-pleaser!
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in a cup of chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top for an indulgent twist.
This will elevate your bars to a delightful dessert status that chocolate aficionados won’t resist.
Coconut Touch: Add shredded coconut for an exotic beachy flair; it brings a tropical sweetness that complements the peanut butter.
You can truly transport your taste buds to a sunny paradise with this simple addition!
Fruit Fusion: Include dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for an added burst of flavor and chewy texture.
This not only enhances the taste but also makes these bars a more wholesome snack option.
Crunchy Boost: Swap cornflakes for granola or add chopped nuts for an extra crunch that contrasts beautifully with the marshmallows.
The varied textures will keep you reaching for more, adding a satisfying bite to each piece!
Savory Spin: For a unique twist, stir in a pinch of sea salt or crushed pretzels for a sweet-savory balance.
This unexpected flavor profile surprises your palate and makes these bars even more addictively delicious!

While you’re at it, consider trying out some other fun recipes like these Peanut Butter Reeses for even more peanut buttery bliss or check out my scrumptious Peanut Butter Chicken for a savory option!

What to Serve with Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars?

Indulge in these delightful bars while exploring an array of scrumptious sides that will elevate your snack time experience.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a cool, creamy balance to the chewy bars, enhancing every bite.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Vibrant, juicy fruits add freshness and a burst of flavor, making the bars more satisfying and sun-kissed.
Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted chocolate brings a decadent touch that enhances the sweetness of the marshmallows and peanut butter.
Nutty Trail Mix: Adding a handful of crunchy trail mix alongside these bars gives a contrasting texture that satisfies nut and seed lovers.
Cold Milk: A chilled glass of milk is a classic pairing, providing a creamy sip that complements the sweet, sticky goodness of the bars perfectly.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea brings a comforting contrast to the sweetness while providing a delightful caffeine boost.
Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie: Blend banana, milk, and peanut butter for a creamy smoothie that echoes the flavors found in the bars.
Marshmallow Fluff Dip: Serve a fluff dip for those who want to scoop their bars for an extra marshmallow fix.

Your snack time will transform into a delicious feast, bringing warmth and sweetness to every gathering!

Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars rcowfu

Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars Recipe FAQs

What type of cornflakes should I use for the bars?
Absolutely! I recommend using classic cornflakes for the best texture and crunch. However, you can also substitute them with other cereals like Rice Krispies or Honey Bunches of Oats. Just keep in mind that this may alter the final texture slightly, offering a more or less airy bite.

How should I store leftover Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars?
For optimal freshness, store your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week while maintaining their chewy goodness.

Can I freeze these bars, and if so, how?
Very! You can absolutely freeze your Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or on the counter for a few hours.

What should I do if the mixture seems too dry?
If your mixture feels a little dry when folding in the cornflakes, don’t worry! You can add a touch more melted butter or a spoonful of peanut butter to balance the consistency. Mix it in gently, and you’ll find it helps to bind the ingredients together beautifully.

Are these bars safe for those with nut allergies?
Not at all! If you or someone you’re serving has a nut allergy, I recommend using sun butter or a seed butter alternative instead of peanut butter. This way, you can still enjoy the same delightful experience without risking health concerns. Just make sure to double-check all other ingredients to avoid cross-contamination!

What can I do if the bars don’t hold together well?
If your Peanut Butter Cornflake Marshmallow Bars are falling apart, it may be due to insufficient cooling time. Allow them to set for at least 30 minutes. If they’re still crumbly, try adding a bit more melted marshmallow or butter to the mixture next time. Press them tightly into the pan during cooling, as this helps them stay intact!