Chocolate Cornflake Cake is my all-time favorite dessert for its sweet, crunchy delight. I often make it as a quick snack for family gatherings or parties.
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Chocolate cornflake cake recipe
Chocolate cornflake cake, also known as chocolate cornflake clusters, is a simple, delightful no-bake treat. It’s a chocolate “nest” made with melted chocolate, sultanas, and crushed cornflakes. My family calls these cookies “doodlebugs.”
During the Blitz, Grandma feared German bombs called Doodlebugs. To comfort her, her mum made cornflake buns and called them chocolate biscuits. I first made this cake in Grandma’s kitchen. It still brings me joy.

Chocolate cornflake cake is a staple on my list of top chocolate desserts. I keep it simple with chocolate and cornflakes. To make it special, I added icing ‘love notes’ on top. These cakes are perfect for special occasions or as sweet treats. I hope they bring you as much joy as they bring me!
Here is how to make chocolate cornflake cakes without golden syrup, no butter:

Chocolate Cornflake Cakes – Love Note Doodlebugs
Ingredients
- 110 g milk chocolate You can use dark chocolate for vegan version
- 50 g cornflakes
- 40 g sultanas
- 100 g ready-to-roll fondant icing
- Writing icing pens
Instructions
- Break the chocolate into pieces. Set 3 pieces aside, and melt the rest over a pan of simmering water.
- Crush the cornflakes into the chocolate and add the sultanas.
- Stir until the mixture comes together.
- Spoon the mixture into the cases and refrigerate until the doodlebugs are set.
- Meanwhile, roll out the icing very thinly and write your desired messages onto the icing. Cut out the messages with a small, sharp knife.
- If you like, you can also make ‘envelopes’ for decoration by cutting out larger, identical squares and folding in three of the corners. Seal the edges by brushing them with water.
- Once the doodlebugs have set, melt the remaining chocolate and use to stick the icing messages on.
Notes
Nutrition
Pairing suggestions
Chocolate cornflake cakes are served with a variety of accompaniments.
- Toppings and Accompaniments
- Mini chocolate eggs create festive nests when added on top.
- Sprinkles add a fun touch to parties and casual gatherings.
- Fresh fruits provide a fresh contrast to sweet cakes.
- Whipped cream complements the chocolate flavor and adds creaminess.
- Ice cream creates a delightful dessert.
- Chocolate sauce enhances the chocolatey experience when drizzled over cakes.
- Non-Alcoholic Options
- Milk complements chocolate sweetness.
- Hot chocolate pairs with chocolate cakes.
- Coffee balances sweetness and adds flavor depth.
- Iced tea contrasts with chocolate richness.
- Alcoholic Options
- Bourbon pairs with chocolate flavors.
- Red wine complements cake sweetness.
- Cognac enhances chocolate flavors and adds sophistication.
- Dark beer pairs with chocolate cakes.
Variations
Chocolate cornflake cakes can be customized in various ways. Here are some popular variations and ideas for making these no-bake desserts:
- Giant Chocolate Cornflake Cake is a large version of a classic treat. It is perfect for Easter celebrations. Ingredients are similar to the classic recipe.
- Scale up ingredients for a larger cake.
- Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Add nuts or crushed cookies for texture.
- Top with mini chocolate eggs or Peeps.
- Vegan Variation uses vegan alternatives for traditional ingredients.
- Use coconut oil instead of butter.
- Use agave syrup instead of golden syrup.
- Ingredients include vegan chocolate chips, cornflakes, coconut oil, and agave syrup.
- Grown-Up Versions have a healthier twist. They include cashew butter or almond butter. These butters provide added protein and healthy fats.
- Ingredients include cashew butter, honey, coconut oil, dark chocolate, and Special K cereal.
- Use Special K cereal for a sophisticated texture.
- Flavored Chocolate Cornflake Cakes add unique flavors.
- Add peanut butter to melted chocolate.
- Sprinkle cinnamon over the mixture before setting.
- Holiday-Themed Variations
- Easter Nests are topped with mini chocolate eggs.
- Christmas Treats are decorated with festive candies. Use Lindt truffles or Ferrero Rocher for a holiday twist.
- Different Cereal Options include alternative cereals like Rice Krispies or shredded wheat. These cereals change the texture and flavor of the cakes.