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
Scale
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.
