If you’re looking to add a charming and festive treat to your holiday dessert table, this Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. These delightful little wreaths are not only adorable with their vibrant green color and bright red accents, but they’re also incredibly easy to make and irresistibly delicious. The combination of crunchy cornflakes and gooey marshmallow creates a perfect texture that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking with kids or just want a quick and cheerful holiday dessert, these cookies bring joy to every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, trustworthy ingredients is key for this Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe. Each item here plays an essential role: from the crispy cornflakes adding texture to the sweet marshmallows binding everything together, and the vanilla for that hint of warmth that elevates the flavors.
- 4 cups cornflakes cereal: Provides the classic crunch and light body for the wreath base.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick): Adds richness and helps melt the marshmallows for binding.
- 1 (10 oz) package of mini marshmallows: The star ingredient for that sweet, gooey texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to balance the sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon green food coloring (gel or liquid): Gives the wreaths their festive green hue without compromising taste.
- 1/4 cup red hot candies or red M&Ms: Adds bright red “berries” that bring the wreaths to life.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and prevents the sweetness from becoming one-dimensional.
How to Make Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
Start by gently melting the unsalted butter over low heat in a large saucepan. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until completely smooth and melted. This smooth marshmallow-butter combo will act as the glue that holds your wreaths together.
Step 2: Add Color and Flavor
Next, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, pinch of salt, and green food coloring. Adjust the green color until you achieve that perfect festive shade. This step transforms the plain marshmallow mixture into a vibrant, holiday-ready base.
Step 3: Mix in the Cornflakes
Slowly fold in the cornflakes with a spatula, gently stirring until every flake is coated with the marshmallow mixture. This ensures that each wreath will be perfectly crunchy and hold together well. Be careful not to crush the flakes, since that crisp texture is what makes these cookies so delightful.
Step 4: Shape the Wreaths
Lightly grease your hands with a bit of butter or oil to prevent sticking, then pinch off small handfuls of the mixture. Shape each into a small ring or wreath shape on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This step is fun and easy, and it brings the Christmas spirit alive as you form each little decoration.
Step 5: Add the Red “Berries”
Before the wreaths set, gently press red hot candies or red M&Ms around the “wreath” to mimic holly berries. These add a festive pop of color and a little extra sweetness, making your cookies look as good as they taste.
Step 6: Let Them Set
Allow the wreath cookies to cool and firm up at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This gives them time to solidify so they hold their shape beautifully when served or packed away.
How to Serve Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra festive touch, consider sprinkling a little powdered sugar over the wreaths to mimic a delicate dusting of snow. You can also serve them with small sprigs of fresh rosemary or holly leaves (non-edible decorative only) on the side for a beautiful presentation.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with warm beverages like hot cocoa, mulled cider, or spiced tea. The sweet and crunchy texture of the wreath cookies balances the warmth and spice perfectly, making them an ideal treat for cozy holiday gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe on a large platter lined with evergreen branches or festive napkins for a stunning holiday centerpiece. You could also tie several wreaths individually with a bit of twine or ribbon as charming edible gift tags or party favors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover wreath cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crisp for up to five days—enough time to enjoy them throughout the holiday week without losing their perfect texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the wreath cookies if you want to prepare them well in advance. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to three months; just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, so reheating is typically unnecessary. However, if you prefer a slightly softer texture, you can microwave a single cookie for about 5 seconds. Avoid overheating to maintain the ideal crunch and shape.
FAQs
Can I use a different cereal instead of cornflakes?
Absolutely! While cornflakes are traditional for their crunch and lightness, you can experiment with other cereals like rice crisps or even bran flakes. Just keep in mind that different cereals will slightly change the texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have green food coloring?
If you don’t have green food coloring, you can omit it and make plain marshmallow wreaths or try natural colorings like spinach powder for a subtle green tint. The cookies will still taste fantastic, even without the vibrant color.
Are red hot candies or red M&Ms better for decoration?
Both work wonderfully! Red hot candies add a bit of spicy kick, while red M&Ms bring a smooth chocolate surprise. Choose based on what you prefer or what’s easiest to find during the holidays.
Can children help make this Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe?
Definitely! Kids will love shaping the wreaths and decorating them with the red candies. Just be sure to supervise when handling the hot marshmallow mixture for safety.
How long does it take for the wreath cookies to set?
Typically, about 30 minutes at room temperature is enough for the wreaths to firm up and hold their shape perfectly before serving or storing.
Final Thoughts
Making this Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe is one of those joyful holiday traditions that never fails to bring smiles. They are as fun to make as they are to eat, and their festive look adds a touch of holiday magic to any celebration. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, these cookies capture the spirit of the season in every crunchy, sweet, colorful bite. Give them a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Celebrate the holiday season with these festive Christmas Wreath Cookies made from crispy cornflakes coated in a sweet marshmallow mixture, colored green and adorned with red candy decorations. These no-bake treats are quick to prepare, delightfully crunchy, and perfect for sharing at holiday parties or as a fun family baking project.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 4 cups cornflakes cereal
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 (10 oz) package of mini marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Coloring and Decoration
- 1/2 teaspoon green food coloring (gel or liquid)
- 1/4 cup red hot candies or red M&Ms for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare the bowl: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper to place the formed wreath cookies on for cooling and setting.
- Melt butter: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter slowly, ensuring it does not brown or burn, as this will be the base of your marshmallow mixture.
- Add marshmallows: Once the butter is melted, add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they melt completely into a smooth, glossy mixture.
- Add flavor and color: Remove the mixture from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Then add the green food coloring to tint the marshmallow mixture a festive green color, mixing until uniform.
- Combine cereal: Immediately pour the cornflakes cereal into the marshmallow mixture, folding gently but thoroughly to coat all the cereal without crushing the flakes.
- Form cookies: With lightly buttered or wet hands, take portions of the sticky mixture and shape into wreath rings approximately 2.5 to 3 inches in diameter. Place each wreath onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Add decorations: While the cookies are still warm and sticky, press the red hot candies or red M&Ms gently onto each wreath to mimic holly berries for a festive look.
- Cool and set: Let the wreath cookies cool at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes until they harden and hold their shape firmly.
- Serve and enjoy: Once set, transfer the cookies to a serving platter. These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days to retain freshness.
Notes
- For a softer wreath cookie, avoid pressing the cereal too hard while mixing.
- Red hot candies add a spicy kick; use red M&Ms for a milder, sweeter decoration.
- Ensure hands are lightly greased or wet to prevent sticking when shaping wreaths.
- Make sure to work quickly when mixing and forming cookies before the marshmallow cools and sets.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for best texture.
