Homemade Frosted Flakes Corn Cereal Recipe: A Healthier Twist On A Classic Favorite

Category: Cereal

Introduction

Frosted Flakes, the iconic breakfast cereal, has been a morning staple for generations. Created by Dr. John Holahan for Kellogg's in 1952, Frosted Flakes quickly became a favorite due to its crunchy texture and sweet, malted flavor. However, many of us are looking for a healthier alternative that still captures the essence of the original. This homemade version allows you to enjoy the same delicious taste with less sugar and more nutritional benefits, all while customizing it to your dietary preferences.

Why Make It at Home?

Making Frosted Flakes at home offers several advantages:

• Healthier Ingredients: Use natural sweeteners and whole grains for a better nutritional profile.
• Customization: Adjust sweetness levels, add flavors, or incorporate different grains to suit your taste.
• Cost-Effective: Homemade cereal can be more economical than store-bought options.
• Fun and Educational: Involving kids in the process can be a fun cooking activity.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the excitement of hearing the iconic "They're gr-r-reat!" slogan as a child. As I grew older, I became more conscious of the sugar content in cereals. When I decided to recreate Frosted Flakes at home, I was thrilled to discover that with a few simple ingredients and steps, I could enjoy a healthier version that tasted just as good. Now, I love starting my day with a bowl of homemade Frosted Flakes, knowing I'm nourishing my body with better ingredients.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:30 minutes
• **Cook Time:20 minutes
• **Total Time:50 minutes
• **Yield:4-6 servings

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups (250g) fine or medium ground cornmeal (gluten-free if needed)
• 1/4 cup (50g) oat flour (optional for extra fiber)
• 1/2 tsp (3g) sea salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) unsweetened almond milk or milk of choice
• 1 tbsp (15ml) maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp (15g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Frosting:

• 1/4 cup (60g) powdered natural sweetener (like Swerve, monk fruit, or powdered honey)
• 1 tbsp (15ml) unsweetened almond milk
• 1/4 tsp malt powder (optional, for authentic flavor)

Instructions

• **Preheat Oven:### Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

• **Prepare Corn Flake Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cornmeal, oat flour, and sea salt.

  • In a separate bowl, mix water, almond milk, maple syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms. Let it rest for 5-7 minutes to allow the cornmeal to absorb the liquid.

• Roll Out Dough:

• Divide the dough into two equal portions for easier handling.

  • Roll out each portion on a lightly floured surface to about 1/16 inch thickness, aiming for thin sheets to mimic cereal flakes.

• Cut into Flakes:

• Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into long, thin strips, about 1 inch wide. You can also use a pasta cutter for uniformity.

• Bake:

• Place the strips on the prepared baking sheets in a single layer, leaving space between them.

  • Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until lightly toasted and dry. Repeat with the second portion.

• Prepare Frosting:

• In a small bowl, mix powdered sweetener, almond milk, and malt powder until smooth.

• Apply Frosting:

• Allow the baked corn strips to cool slightly. Drizzle the frosting over them, tossing gently to coat evenly. Let the frosting set for about 5 minutes.

• Break into Flakes:

• Once set, break the strips into smaller flakes, about 1-2 inches long.

• Enjoy:

• Serve your homemade Frosted Flakes with your favorite milk and toppings.

Storage Instructions

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia.
• Cinnamon Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the frosting for a sweet twist.
• Crunchy Version: Add chopped nuts or seeds to the dough for extra texture.

Special Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife or pasta cutter

Pro Tips

• Even Baking: Ensure the dough is rolled thin for a crunchy texture.
• Sweetness Balance: Taste the frosting before applying and adjust sweetness as needed.
• Flake Size: For authentic flakes, keep them thin and uniform.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh ingredients instead of processed ones? Yes, opt for natural sweeteners and whole grains.
• What if the cereal becomes soggy? Store in an airtight container and consider toasting it again briefly.
• How do I make it last longer? Freeze to maintain crunchiness.
• Can I make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free cornmeal and omit oat flour.
• Is it vegan? Replace butter with a vegan alternative like coconut oil.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy with plant-based milk for a vegan breakfast.
• Add fresh fruit or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
• Use as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.

Conclusion

This homemade Frosted Flakes recipe offers a healthier, customizable alternative to the classic cereal. With less sugar and more fiber, you can feel good about starting your day with a delicious, crunchy bowl. Share your creations and enjoy the gr-r-reat taste of homemade Frosted Flakes!