Cornflakes cereal has been a beloved breakfast staple for decades, with its satisfying crunch and subtle sweetness. While store-bought options are readily available, there's something truly special about crafting your own homemade version. In this article, we'll walk you through the process of making delicious cornflakes cereal in the comfort of your own kitchen. So put on your apron and let's dive in!
Ingredients:
To make your homemade cornflakes cereal, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of water
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Cornmeal Mixture
Start by combining the cornmeal, sugar (if desired), and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir the dry ingredients together until well combined.
Step 2: Adding Water
Gradually add water to the dry mixture while stirring continuously. Continue adding water until the mixture forms a thick, dough-like consistency. You may need slightly more or less water depending on the moisture content of your cornmeal.
Step 3: Kneading the Dough
Transfer the mixture onto a clean, lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This kneading process helps to activate the gluten in the cornmeal, which gives the cereal its signature texture.
Step 4: Rolling out the Dough
Once the dough is adequately kneaded, divide it into smaller portions for easier handling. Take one portion and roll it out into a thin, even sheet. Aim for a thickness of about 1/16 to 1/8 inch (1.5 to 3 mm).
Step 5: Cutting the Cornflakes
Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the rolled-out dough into small flakes. You can make them square, rectangular, or even irregularly shaped, similar to store-bought cornflakes.
Step 6: Drying the Cornflakes
Carefully transfer the cut cornflakes onto a baking sheet or a large tray lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are evenly spread out and not overlapping. Leave the cornflakes to air dry for at least 6-8 hours or overnight. This step is crucial as it removes any remaining moisture and ensures a crispy texture.
Step 7: Baking the Cornflakes
Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Once fully dried, place the cornflakes in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
Step 8: Cooling and Storing
Remove the baked cornflakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely. As they cool, they will become even crispier. Once cooled, transfer the cornflakes to an airtight container to maintain their freshness and crunchiness. They can be stored for up to a few weeks.
Enjoying Your Homemade Cornflakes Cereal:
Your homemade cornflakes cereal is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them with cold milk, yogurt, or sprinkle them over a bowl of fresh fruit. You can also experiment with different flavor variations by adding dried fruits, nuts, or spices to the dough mixture before baking.
Making your own cornflakes cereal at home is a rewarding and delightful experience. By following these simple steps, you can create a batch of crunchy cornflakes that are not only delicious but also free from additives and preservatives. So, embrace your inner breakfast chef.
