Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful, festive treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, you’re going to adore this Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe. These charming marshmallow and cornflake wreaths are not only adorable but come together super quickly — perfect for last-minute holiday baking or a cozy afternoon with the kids. I absolutely love how they look on a holiday platter, and honestly, they taste way better than they look, with a perfect balance of chewy sweetness and that satisfying crunch.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe uses everyday pantry staples that come together perfectly. You’ll want to choose fresh marshmallows and crispy cornflakes so every bite is light and gooey. Plus, the green food coloring gives it that classic festive touch without overpowering the flavor.

• Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness and smooth melting.
• Large Marshmallows: Freshness is key; old marshmallows won’t melt as smoothly.
• Green Food Coloring: Gel food coloring works best here—just a few drops create vivid green without adding extra liquid.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm depth to the marshmallow mixture that’s subtle but essential.
• Cornflakes: Classic cornflakes give a lovely crunch and absorb the marshmallow coating nicely.
• Red Candies or Mini M&M’s: These act as the ‘berries’ on your wreath and bring a pop of color and extra sweetness.
• Cooking Spray: Prevents sticking when forming your wreath shapes; trust me, this little trick makes a huge difference!

Variations

I like to mix things up with this Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe depending on who I’m baking for and what I have on hand. You’re welcome to get creative—it’s really forgiving and fun!

• Use Different Candies: I love swapping red hot candies for dried cranberries or even small gumdrops for a fruitier pop.
• Try Peppermint Flavor: Adding a drop or two of peppermint extract instead of vanilla instantly gives a cool, festive twist.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Cornflakes are usually gluten-free, but check the brand just in case.
• Add Sprinkles or Edible Glitter: For extra sparkle, especially if kids are involved!

How to Make Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Melt Butter and Marshmallows Until Smooth

Start by lining a sheet pan with parchment or a silicone mat to prevent sticking. Then, in a microwave-safe bowl, add your butter and marshmallows. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until everything is melted and combined into a smooth, glossy mixture. This usually takes about 1 to 1.5 minutes total. Be careful not to overheat—the marshmallows can scorch easily and turn grainy.

Step 2: Add Food Coloring and Vanilla Extract

Once melted, stir in your green food coloring and vanilla extract. The green coloring is what transforms this into a festive wreath, so I usually add 6 drops of gel food coloring to get that perfect vibrant shade. Stir gently but thoroughly so the color is evenly distributed. If you’re using liquid food coloring instead, just keep in mind it might make the mixture a bit thinner.

Step 3: Coat the Cornflakes

Now, pour your cornflakes into the bowl and gently fold them into the marshmallow mixture. You want all the flakes evenly coated but also intact—avoid stirring too vigorously to keep that crunch. This step is where patience pays off. Once mixed, the cereal will be sticky but manageable.

Step 4: Shape the Wreath Cookies

Here’s the fun—and sometimes tricky—part: forming your wreaths. Lightly grease your hands with cooking spray or keep a small bowl of water nearby to dip your fingers in, so the sticky mixture doesn’t cling. Scoop about 1/4 cup of the mixture and pack it firmly into a measuring cup, then carefully invert it onto your prepared sheet pan.

While still soft, use your finger to make a hole in the middle, shaping it like a wreath. Don’t worry if the edges aren’t perfect; the homemade charm adds to the appeal! Finally, decorate each wreath with your red candies, pressing them in just enough so they stick but don’t get lost in the marshmallow.

Step 5: Let Them Cool and Set

Allow your Christmas Wreath Cookies to cool completely at room temperature—about 20 to 30 minutes. This is when they firm up and get that perfect chewy-crunchy texture. If you’re short on time, you can pop them into the fridge for 10 minutes or so, but watch carefully to avoid condensation making them soggy.

How to Serve Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I like to finish off these Christmas wreath cookies with little touches of white sanding sugar or edible glitter for extra sparkle—it gives that frosty snow-kissed look that’s just magical for holiday gatherings. Sometimes I add tiny mint leaves around the display for a fresh green contrast that plays well with the candy ‘berries.’

Side Dishes

These cookies are perfect alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa or eggnog for a sweet holiday snack. They also pair well with a cheese platter or even as a peppermint latte accompaniment if you want to get fancy.

Creative Ways to Present

One year, I lined a festive tray with fresh pine branches and sprinkled some faux snow before arranging the wreath cookies on top—it was a showstopper at our family party! You can also stack the cookies on a tiered dessert stand or tie them individually with red and white twine as edible gift tags.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These cookies keep best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. I’ve found that storing them with a slice of bread helps keep them soft—the bread absorbs excess moisture and keeps the wreaths chewy.

Freezing

I’ve had good luck freezing these wreath cookies individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then packed into a freezer bag for up to a month. Thaw them overnight at room temperature before serving to maintain their texture.

Reheating

If you want to refresh them a bit, a few seconds in the microwave (about 5-7 seconds) can soften the marshmallow slightly without melting the candy decorations. Just watch them closely to avoid overheating!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe is one of those holiday treats I reach for year after year because it’s joyful, straightforward, and always a crowd-pleaser. It feels like such a win to whip up something festive that doesn’t take hours or fill the kitchen with a million dishes. Whether you’re baking solo or with a crew, these wreaths bring a little sparkle and sweetness to your holiday season. I can’t wait for you to try them—you’re going to love how easy and fun these are!

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