There’s nothing quite like the inviting aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, especially when that recipe is straight from Nana’s cherished collection. Nana’s Traditional Cornflake Cookies effortlessly blend a delightful crunch with a soft, chewy interior, making each bite a warm hug from home. I can still picture those sunny afternoons spent in the kitchen, preparing these delicious treats, which have become a staple not only for school lunches but also for family gatherings across Australia.
What I love most about this recipe is how incredibly easy it is to whip up a batch, perfect for those of us who might be tired of fast food or seeking a homemade alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Crunchy cornflakes mingle with sweet sultanas, creating a cookie that’s as versatile as it is comforting. Whether you’re baking for little ones or wanting to impress guests with a nostalgic treat, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and bring some of that warmth to your kitchen today!
Why are Nana’s Traditional Cornflake Cookies a must-try?
Irresistible texture: The delightful combination of crunchy cornflakes and chewy sultanas makes each bite a celebration of flavor and texture.
Quick & easy: Whip these cookies up in no time, making them perfect for spontaneous baking sessions or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile options: Feel free to swap in chocolate chips or nuts, allowing you to customize the recipe to suit your family’s taste.
Nostalgic charm: Embrace the heartwarming memories of classic Australian baking and share them with loved ones.
Crowd-pleaser: These cookies are ideal for any occasion, appealing to kids and adults alike, ensuring they’ll disappear fast!
If you’re keen on more delightful treats, check out our extensive collection of easy homemade desserts.
Nana’s Traditional Cornflake Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Mixture
- Butter (Fairy) – Provides richness and moisture; you can use dairy-free margarine for a vegan version.
- Caster Sugar – Sweetens the cookies while aiding in texture; granulated sugar works just fine if you don’t have caster on hand.
- Eggs – Acts as a binder and adds moisture; for a vegan alternative, use flaxseed meal mixed with water.
- Sultanas – Adds sweetness and chewiness; feel free to swap with chocolate chips or your favorite dried fruit.
- Self-Raising Flour – Gives the cookies structure and helps them rise; all-purpose flour with a bit of baking powder can substitute.
- Cornflakes – Provides that irresistible crunch; gluten-free cornflakes can work if needed.
For the Chocolate Coating
- Milk Chocolate & Copha – Adds a sweet, glossy finish; dark chocolate can enhance the flavor for those who prefer richer tastes.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re set to bake Nana’s Traditional Cornflake Cookies, a delicious treat that brings warmth to every occasion!
How to Make Nana’s Traditional Cornflake Cookies
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Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced) and greasing three oven trays with baking spray or margarine. This will prepare your space for those delectable cookies.
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Combine butter and sugar: In an electric mixer, beat the butter and caster sugar together until the mixture appears pale and creamy. This step usually takes about 3-5 minutes!
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Add the eggs: Gradually incorporate the eggs into the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until everything is well combined and smooth. You’ll love the silky texture this brings to your dough.
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Mix in sultanas and flour: Gently stir in the sultanas and sifted self-raising flour, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated for a delightful cookie base.
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Crush cornflakes: Take your cornflakes and lightly crush them in a large bowl. This allows for the perfect coating to give your cookies that signature crunchiness.
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Coat the cookie mixture: Using two metal teaspoons, drop spoonfuls of the cookie mixture into the crushed cornflakes, rolling them around to coat each ball completely.
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Place on trays: Arrange the coated cookie balls on the prepared baking trays, leaving enough space for them to spread. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown and inviting.
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Cool and prepare for coating: Once baked, let the cookies cool on the trays briefly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Melt chocolate and copha: For the final touch, melt the chocolate and copha in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts, stirring constantly until smooth.
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Dip cookies in chocolate: Dip half of each cooled cookie into the chocolate mixture, then place them back on a tray lined with baking paper to set and showcase that delectable gloss.
Optional: Drizzle a bit of extra melted chocolate on top for a stylish finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Nana’s Traditional Cornflake Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie mixture up to 24 hours in advance—just mix the butter, sugar, eggs, sultanas, and flour, then cover and refrigerate. To keep the cornflakes crunchy, it’s best to wait until you’re ready to bake to coat the mixture. When you’re set to bake, simply crush the cornflakes, roll the cookie balls, and bake as instructed. Allow them to cool before dipping in chocolate for that irresistible finish. This way, you’ll enjoy freshly baked cookies with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Nana’s Traditional Cornflake Cookies?
Enjoy a cozy afternoon tea or hearty family gathering with these delightful morsels that are reminiscent of childhood memories.
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Cold Milk: The classic pairing of warm cookies with a glass of cold milk is always a winner, enhancing the cookies’ sweetness.
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Hot Tea: A soothing cup of English breakfast or chamomile tea complements the sweet and crunchy texture, making this an afternoon delight.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a light, natural sweetness that balances the rich cookies beautifully.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy cheeses provides a contrasting flavor profile that elevates your cookie experience to gourmet levels.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These sweet treats echo the chocolate coating of the cookies, creating a luxurious and indulgent theme.
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Coconut Macaroons: Their chewy texture pairs perfectly with the crunchy cornflakes, offering a delightful variety for dessert lovers.
Each of these pairings adds a unique twist, turning your cookie experience into a truly memorable occasion.
Nana’s Traditional Cornflake Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with your cookie creations and make them uniquely yours!
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Dried Fruit: Swap sultanas for dried cranberries or apricots to infuse delightful tanginess into your cookies.
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Nutty Goodness: Add chopped walnuts or almonds for a crunchy texture that complements the sweet softness of the cookie. These nuts enhance the flavor while keeping every bite interesting.
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Chocolate Lovers: Substitute milk chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer, more indulgent treat that will satisfy any chocolate craving.
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Cinnamon Spice: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, comforting flavor that instantly brings feelings of nostalgia to your baking.
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Vegan Delight: Use flaxseed meal mixed with water in place of eggs and dairy-free margarine for a fully vegan cookie option without compromising taste.
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Zesty Twist: Add a hint of lemon or orange zest to brighten the flavors and give your cookies a refreshing citrus note.
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Savory Touch: Incorporate a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty combination that elevates the flavor profile.
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Granola Crumble: Mix in some granola for added crunch and a wholesome twist to your traditional cookie delight.
Expert Tips for Nana’s Traditional Cornflake Cookies
Light & Fluffy Mix: Ensure to beat the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy; this is crucial for the perfect texture in your cookies.
Perfect Spacing: Avoid overcrowding your baking trays when placing cookie balls; cookies will spread as they bake, so give them room to grow!
Cool Completely: Allow your cookies to cool fully before dipping in chocolate; this prevents the chocolate from melting and losing that beautiful finish.
Crunchy Cornflakes: Use fresh cornflakes for maximum crunch; stale cornflakes won’t provide the same delightful texture in Nana’s Traditional Cornflake Cookies.
Flavorful Variations: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Adding nuts or spices can enhance the flavor and add depth to this traditional recipe.
Storage Tips for Nana’s Traditional Cornflake Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their delightful crunch and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy a cookie, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them slightly in a microwave for a few seconds to restore their original texture.
Chocolate Coating: If your cookies are coated in chocolate, be sure to separate layers with parchment paper in your storage container to prevent sticking.
Nana’s Traditional Cornflake Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of cornflakes should I use for Nana’s Traditional Cornflake Cookies?
Absolutely, you can use any cornflakes you prefer! However, for a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free cornflakes, which are widely available. Make sure they’re fresh to maintain that delightful crunch in your cookies.
How should I store Nana’s Traditional Cornflake Cookies?
You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This keeps them fresh and helps maintain their crunchy texture. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll last up to three months in the freezer!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! To freeze Nana’s Traditional Cornflake Cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then pack them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. I often write the date on the bag, so you know when to enjoy them! They can safely freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, slowly thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up!
What can I do if my cookie mixture is too runny?
If your cookie mixture seems too runny, it could be due to the butter being too soft or not enough flour. To fix this, you can gradually add small amounts of self-raising flour until you achieve a good consistency. Remember, a well-combined dough should hold its shape when scooped!
Are these cookies safe for pets?
No, it’s important to keep these cookies away from pets! Ingredients like chocolate can be harmful to dogs and cats. If you’re looking to bake treats for your furry friends, consider making pet-friendly cookies with safe ingredients, like peanut butter or banana!
Can I substitute ingredients in Nana’s Traditional Cornflake Cookies?
Very! If you’re out of caster sugar, simply use granulated sugar. For a dairy-free version, swap out butter for a margarine alternative. Remember, flaxseed meal mixed with water works beautifully as a substitute for eggs if you’re going vegan. These flexible options allow you to cater to various dietary needs while still enjoying this classic treat!
Nanas Traditional Cornflake Cookies: Crunchy Aussie Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced) and greasing three oven trays with baking spray or margarine.
- Combine butter and sugar: In an electric mixer, beat the butter and caster sugar together until pale and creamy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the eggs: Gradually incorporate the eggs into the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until well combined and smooth.
- Mix in sultanas and flour: Gently stir in the sultanas and sifted self-raising flour until evenly incorporated.
- Crush cornflakes: Lightly crush the cornflakes in a large bowl.
- Coat the cookie mixture: Drop spoonfuls of the cookie mixture into the crushed cornflakes, rolling them around to coat.
- Place on trays: Arrange the coated cookie balls on baking trays, leaving space between them. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool and prepare for coating: Let the cookies cool on the trays before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Melt chocolate and copha: Melt the chocolate and copha in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth.
- Dip cookies in chocolate: Dip half of each cooled cookie into the chocolate mixture and place back on a tray lined with baking paper to set.