Craving a sweet treat that’s quick, easy, and downright irresistible? These No-Bake Butterscotch Cookies are the perfect solution! Made with just a handful of simple ingredients—crunchy cornflakes, rich butterscotch chips, and creamy peanut butter—this recipe delivers that nostalgic, sweet-and-salty flavor combination everyone loves.
If you love no-bake treats, this recipe is for you. Like my Fire Ranch Crackers, No-Bake Cherry Delight, or Coconut Cream Pie In Jars, these recipes are delicious and easy to make, too!
One of my all-time favorite flavor combinations is salty and sweet. When they come together in the form of a no-bake dessert, then I’m all in! That’s what’s happening here with these Cornflake Butterscotch cookies. The combination of smooth butterscotch and peanut butter coating crunchy cornflakes, with a little sprinkle of sea salt, is just scrumptious.
Behind the Scenes: Why Cornflakes Work
Cornflakes (yep, the plain breakfast cereal kind) are the secret to the perfect crunch in these cookies because they’re light, sturdy, and naturally unsweetened. Their neutral flavor lets the butterscotch and peanut butter shine, while their crispy texture creates a satisfying bite. Unlike other cereals, cornflakes don’t get soggy as quickly when mixed with a warm, melted coating—making them perfect for no-bake treats like this one.
Ingredients For These Easy No-Bake Cookies
With just simple pantry staples of cornflakes, butterscotch chips, and peanut butter, you’re all set to create a delicious batch of cookies in no time. I like to finish them off with a sprinkle of Pink Himalayan sea salt or kosher salt (for that sweet-and-salty balance)
What Is Butterscotch?
You might know them as cellophane-wrapped candy your Grandma always had in her purse. The name “butterscotch” comes from “scorching” the butter and sugar to create its signature deep caramelized flavor. Today, butterscotch chips are a convenient and modern twist on this yummy flavor, making desserts like these no-bake cookies quick and delicious.
Are These Cookies Gluten-Free?
Yes! Since cornflakes are naturally gluten-free, these cookies make an excellent gluten-free dessert option. Just double-check the packaging of your ingredients to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.
Make This Recipe You Own With These Variations
- Add Chocolate Chips: Toss in mini chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
- Use Different Cereals: Swap cornflakes for Rice Krispies, Special K, or crushed pretzels for a unique texture.
- Drizzle on Chocolate: Once the cookies have set, drizzle melted chocolate on top for a fancier finish.
- Crunchy Add-Ins: This is my favorite! Stir in chopped nuts, shredded coconut, chunky peanut butter or crushed graham crackers for extra flavor and crunch.
How To Make Cornflake Cookies
- Start by placing your cornflakes in a bowl and gently breaking them into smaller pieces with your hands—no need to overthink it!
- Next, melt the butterscotch chips in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth. Add the peanut butter and let it cook for a minute, mixing constantly to combine.
- Now, pour that creamy, warm mixture over the cornflakes and gently fold everything together until the flakes are evenly coated.
- Scoop the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet using a spoon or ice cream scoop, shaping it into cookie-sized mounds.
- Finally, pop the tray in the fridge for about 10 minutes to let the cookies set. Once firm, they’re ready to enjoy!
How To Store No Bake Butterscotch Cookies
To store the cookies, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them on the countertop or in the pantry for up to one week.
No-Bake Butterscotch Cookie Questions, Answered
These no-bake cookies are one of my absolute favorites, and they’re the first thing I reach for when I have butterscotch chips on hand. You melt the chips with peanut butter, stir in cornflakes, drop them onto a baking sheet, and let them set. No oven, no fuss — just a sweet, crunchy, butterscotch-forward treat that takes minutes to make.
Cornflakes are the perfect mix-in because they’re light, neutral in flavor, and they don’t get soggy quickly the way other cereals might. They give these cookies a wonderful crunch and a little airy texture that plays beautifully against the rich butterscotch and peanut butter coating. It’s a classic combination for a reason.
Cornflakes are naturally gluten-free, which makes these cookies a great option for anyone avoiding gluten. Just double-check that your butterscotch chips and peanut butter don’t contain any added gluten ingredients, and you’ve got a treat everyone can enjoy. Always verify labels if you’re cooking for someone with a serious sensitivity or celiac disease.
Let them set at room temperature for about 30 minutes until firm, then transfer to an airtight container. They keep well at room temperature for up to a week — if they last that long! I love making a double batch and keeping them around for when the craving hits. They also travel well, which makes them a great option for parties or potlucks.
More Sweet Treats You’ll Love!
If you tried this No-Bake Butterscotch Cookie Recipe or any other recipe, please leave a star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below. Thanks!
Ingredients
- 1 bag butterscotch chips
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 6 cups corn flakes
- Pink Himalayan Sea Salt or Koscher Salt – optional
Instructions
- Place corn flakes into a medium size bowl. Using your hands, break the flakes into smaller pieces. Set aside.
- Melt butterscotch chips in a small sauce pan. Add in peanut butter and cook for 1 minute stirring to mix. Pour mixture over corn flakes and stir to coat. Using an ice cream scoop, measure out and place cookies on parchment or waxed paper line baking sheet. Place in fridge to set. Remove after 10 minutes and enjoy!**Cookies can be stored in a ziploc bag or airtight container.
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I just made this. My husband’s favorite cookie is butterscotch and in the summer, it’s just too hot to bake. He loved this as an alternative. The only thing I did different is I added a little vanilla, and I spread it out on the parchment paper and then just broke it into bite-size pieces. Delicious!! Thank you for sharing the recipe!!!♥️
This just made me smile! A little vanilla and spreading it out to break into pieces — that is such a smart idea, especially in the summer heat. I love that your husband approved. Thank you for sharing your version and for the sweet note! xo, ~Donya