This treat blends melted milk and dark chocolate with golden syrup and crunchy cornflakes to create crispy nests. After folding in the cornflakes, the mixture is shaped into nest forms, each topped with mini candy-coated chocolate eggs. Chilling sets the nests firmly, making them easy to enjoy as a sweet, festive delight ideal for sharing during Easter or spring celebrations.
My kitchen smelled like pure chocolate heaven when I first made these nests last Easter. My four-year-old goddaughter was visiting and we decided to make something festive together. She took her job of placing the candy eggs so seriously that each nest got exactly three eggs arranged in a perfect triangle. Those little nests disappeared faster than any other treat on the table.
I brought a batch to our neighborhood Easter potluck and watched my neighbor's husband try to sneak five of them into his pockets. Someone caught him and the whole table erupted in laughter. Now every time I see him he asks if I've made any more of those chocolate bird nests.
Ingredients
- 200 g milk chocolate chopped: The milk chocolate provides the creamy sweet base that makes these nests irresistible
- 100 g dark chocolate chopped: Dark chocolate balances the sweetness and adds depth to the flavor
- 100 g unsalted butter cubed: Butter helps the chocolate set properly while adding richness
- 3 tbsp golden syrup: This golden elixir keeps the chocolate glossy and prevents it from seizing when melted
- 100 g cornflakes: The foundation of that satisfying crunch in every bite
- 100 g mini candy-coated chocolate eggs: These colorful eggs make the nests look like tiny spring treasures
Instructions
- Prep your nest mold:
- Line a 12-hole muffin tin with paper cupcake cases and set aside where you'll work quickly once the chocolate is melted
- Melt the chocolate base:
- Set a heatproof bowl over simmering water and melt the milk chocolate, dark chocolate, butter, and golden syrup together until you have a silky smooth mixture
- Create the crunch:
- Gently fold in the cornflakes until every piece is coated in chocolate but still maintains some texture
- Shape your nests:
- Divide the mixture among the paper cases and press lightly with a spoon to create a hollow center perfect for holding eggs
- Add the eggs:
- Place 2 to 3 mini chocolate eggs in the center of each nest while the chocolate is still slightly tacky
- Set and serve:
- Chill for at least 30 minutes until firm then remove from the tin and paper cases before serving
Last spring I made these with my elderly mother who grew up in London making the traditional shredded wheat version. She was skeptical about cornflakes until she took her first bite and declared them actually better than the original. Now it's our Easter tradition to make both versions and have a friendly taste test.
Making Them Ahead
These nests are one of those rare treats that actually taste better after sitting overnight. The flavors meld together beautifully and the texture becomes more satisfying. I always make them the day before Easter brunch.
Perfect Pairings
These nests shine alongside other spring treats like lemon tarts or vanilla bean cupcakes. The rich chocolate balances perfectly with lighter fruity desserts. They're also adorable served on a platter with coconut macaroons and pastel-colored cookies.
Creative Variations
Try swapping cornflakes for shredded wheat or crushed rice cereal for different textures. A pinch of sea salt over the chocolate before adding eggs creates a sophisticated flavor profile. You can also add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the chocolate mixture.
- Drizzle white chocolate over the finished nests for a snowy effect
- Add a drop of peppermint extract to the melted chocolate for a fresh twist
- Use pastel-colored sprinkles instead of candy eggs for a different look
Whether you're making these with kids or just for your own sweet tooth these nests bring pure joy to any Easter table. Happy Easter baking.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What chocolate works best for these nests?
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A combination of milk and dark chocolate offers a balanced flavor and smooth texture.
- → Can I substitute cornflakes with another cereal?
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Yes, shredded wheat can be used for a more rustic texture and nest-like appearance.
- → How long should the nests chill before serving?
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Chilling for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator ensures the nests set firmly.
- → Are there any nut variations suggested?
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Adding chopped roasted hazelnuts or almonds provides a tasty nutty twist.
- → How should these nests be stored?
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Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness.