Co3O4@β-cyclodextrin with synergistic peroxidase-mimicking performance as a signal magnification approach for colorimetric determination of ascorbic acid

•Facile one-pot synthesis of Co3O4@β-cyclodextrin nanoparticles at room temperature.•The peroxidase-like activity was developed after modifying with β-cyclodextrin.•Host-guest interaction between Co3O4@β-CD NPs and 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine.•Highly active and selective colorimetric detection of ascorbic acid.