Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe

I’m so excited to share this Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe with you because it’s one of those festive treats that’s quick, fun, and absolutely adorable. These little wreaths capture all the holiday spirit with their bright green marshmallow glaze and red candy berries – they practically sing “Christmas” the moment you see them. Plus, they’re perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or just getting cozy with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace.

What I love most about this Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe is how simple it is, even if you’re not a seasoned baker. You don’t need any fancy equipment or hours to prep – it’s all about melting butter and marshmallows, stirring in cornflakes, and adding your festive touches. I’ve found that whipping these up with friends or family turns into its own little holiday tradition, and watching everyone’s faces light up as they decorate is just priceless.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together in a perfect balance of sweet, crunchy, and colorful. I always recommend lining up everything before you start because the marshmallow melts fast and you want to keep the process smooth and enjoyable.

• Butter: This adds richness and helps melt the marshmallows smoothly – unsalted is best for controlling saltiness.
• Large marshmallows: The sticky binding agent for these cookies. Don’t substitute mini marshmallows or you’ll end up with a different texture.
• Green gel food coloring (or liquid): Gel colors give that vibrant wreath green without watered-down marshmallows. I prefer gel for the vivid color.
• Vanilla extract: Just a splash brightens the sweetness and brings warmth to the flavor.
• Cornflakes: The “crunch” in these cookies. Use plain cornflakes, not frosted or honey-flavored – they let the other flavors shine.
• Red hot candies or red candy-coated chocolates: These are your festive “berries.” Mini M&M’s add a slight chocolate hit, while red hots have a nice kick if you like a bit of spice.
• Cooking spray: Keeps your hands and molds from sticking, a small but game-changing tip.

Variations

I always have fun switching things up with this Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by playing around with add-ins or tweaking sweetness and colors. It keeps the tradition fresh each year!

• Variation: I’ve sometimes swapped out the cornflakes for crispy rice cereal for a lighter crunch. It changes the texture but still holds the wreath shape beautifully.
• Dietary modification: To make them gluten-free, just select gluten-free cornflakes and you’re good to go – easy peasy!
• Seasonal twist: Swap the red candies for mini white chocolate chips or peppermint bits for a different holiday vibe.
• Extra decorative: Add edible glitter or small silver dragees after shaping for that extra wow factor that never fails to impress guests.

How to Make Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Melt Butter and Marshmallows

Place the butter and marshmallows in a large microwave-safe bowl. Heat them in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until completely melted and smooth. Be patient here – marshmallows can be stubborn, but you don’t want to overheat or burn them. Adding green gel food coloring steadily while stirring transforms the mixture into a bright green glaze. Stir in vanilla extract last for that cozy flavor boost.

Step 2: Stir in the Cornflakes

Quickly add the cornflakes to the green marshmallow mixture and fold gently until every flake is coated. Try not to smash the flakes too much; the crunch is the best part! Getting this step right will help your wreaths hold their shape but still stay light and crumbly.

Step 3: Shape Your Wreaths

Spray your hands lightly with cooking spray (trust me, it helps a lot!) and form small balls, then press a hole through the center to create the wreath shape. Work quickly while the mixture is still warm and pliable — it sets fast! If you want uniform wreaths, you can use a mini bundt pan or even pipe molds as a guide.

Step 4: Add Your Festive “Berries”

Before the wreaths cool and harden, gently press your red hot candies or red mini M&Ms onto the wreath as the berry decorations. I like to use about 3-4 per cookie for a pretty, balanced look. If you wait too long and the marshmallow hardens, the candies won’t stick.

How to Serve Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I usually skip extra garnishes because the candies themselves make these cookies look festive enough. But if you want to add a little flair, a light dusting of powdered sugar looks like frost and adds an extra holiday touch that’s super charming. You could also drizzle a bit of white chocolate for a snowy effect.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm drink, so I often serve them alongside spiced hot apple cider or a peppermint mocha. If you’re hosting a cookie swap or party, add a platter of fresh fruit and nuts to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For gifting or parties, I like to wrap these Christmas Wreath Cookies individually in clear cellophane tied with a red or green ribbon. Another charming idea is arranging them in a wreath shape on a festive platter—a wreath of wreath cookies, if you will! It’s a fun centerpiece that guests can nibble on all night.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover wreath cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, and they stay perfectly crisp and chewy. If you live somewhere humid, toss in a silica packet or store them in the fridge to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

Freezing these cookies is a game-changer if you like to bake ahead. Just freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep beautifully for up to 2 months and thaw quickly when you’re ready to serve.

Reheating

If you want them a little warm and melty, pop the cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. I find microwaving is best if you’re in a hurry and want that gooey marshmallow softness.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe brings back so many warm memories for me of simple, joyful holiday moments spent creating and sharing treats with loved ones. It’s such a straightforward recipe that anyone can enjoy making, and the festive look makes you smile every time you see the platter. I hope you’ll try it out this season – it’s a wonderful way to add a homemade touch to your holiday celebrations that your family and guests will truly appreciate.

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