No-Bake Ghost Cornflake & Peanut Butter Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like how these cookies come together without even turning on the oven. The combination of crunchy cornflakes, smooth peanut butter, and sweet chocolate makes them irresistible, and shaping them into ghosts adds a festive touch. They’re fun to make with kids, perfect for a party tray, and easy enough to whip up on a busy day.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

4 cups Cornflake Cereal Make sure they’re fresh and crunchy for the best texture. You can even find gluten-free cornflakes if needed!
1/2 cup Peanut Butter creamy or crunchy
1/2 cup Syrup maple syrup, corn syrup, or honey
1/2 tsp Salt Don’t skip this! It perfectly balances the sweetness and enhances the peanut butter flavor.
1 tsp Vanilla Extract A little splash of vanilla elevates everything.
18 Marshmallows Standard-sized marshmallows work best here.
1 cup White Chocolate chips or chopped bar High-quality white chocolate melts smoother.
1 tbsp Dark Chocolate chips or chopped bar Just a small amount for the adorable ghost faces.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Base: I grab my largest mixing bowl and toss in the cornflake cereal, peanut butter, syrup, salt, and vanilla extract. I mix with a sturdy spoon or my hands until everything is evenly coated.

Step 2: Form the Ghosts: I line a baking sheet with parchment paper, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture, and shape them into ghost-like figures with a rounded bottom and a tapered top.

Step 3: Add Marshmallows: I press one marshmallow into the wider bottom part of each ghost to create the plump base.

Step 4: Melt the White Chocolate: I melt white chocolate in short intervals in the microwave until smooth. I dip the top two-thirds of each ghost (covering the marshmallow and cornflake base) into the chocolate, letting the excess drip off, then place them back on the sheet.

Step 5: Decorate: I melt the dark chocolate and use a toothpick, small brush, or piping bag to draw two eyes and a mouth on each ghost.

Step 6: Set and Serve: I chill the cookies in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes until the chocolate sets, then they’re ready to serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 18 cookies
Prep time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor. Using candy melts instead of white chocolate gives me colorful ghosts. For a nut-free version, I use cookie butter. I also like making mini ghosts by shaping smaller bases and using mini marshmallows.

Storage/Reheating

I keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, I freeze them for up to a month. To serve, I let them come to room temperature so the texture is just right.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare them 1–2 days in advance, and they hold up well.

Do I need to refrigerate them?

No, they can sit at room temperature, but I like refrigerating them for a firmer texture.

Can I use honey instead of corn syrup or maple syrup?

Yes, honey works beautifully and adds a slightly different sweetness.

How do I keep the white chocolate from seizing?

I melt it slowly in short intervals, stirring in between, to avoid overheating.

Can I make these cookies nut-free?

Yes, I swap peanut butter with cookie butter or sunflower seed butter.

Can I use mini marshmallows?

Yes, mini marshmallows work if I make smaller ghost shapes.

What if my cornflake mixture feels too dry?

I add a little extra syrup or peanut butter until it holds together.

Can I decorate with candy eyes instead of chocolate?

Absolutely, candy eyes make the ghosts even cuter and save time.

How do I keep them from sticking to the pan?

I always use parchment paper—it makes removal super easy.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, I often double it for parties since they disappear quickly.

Conclusion

No-Bake Ghost Cornflake & Peanut Butter Cookies are fun, festive, and full of flavor. I love how simple they are to put together, and they always bring smiles to the table. Whether I’m making them with kids, preparing a party spread, or just craving a seasonal sweet, these playful ghost cookies are always a hit.