As the holiday season envelops us with its cheerful spirit, there’s nothing quite like the nostalgia of baking festive treats. This year, while decorating the house with twinkling lights, I found my mind drifting toward a fun and easy recipe that perfectly captures the essence of Christmas—Cornflake Marshmallow Treats! These delightful Christmas Wreath Cookies not only bring a pop of color to any dessert table but also make for a fantastic craft activity with the kids. Imagine the laughter and joy as they shape and decorate these edible wreaths, filled with gooey marshmallows and the crunch of cornflakes.
What I love about this recipe is how effortlessly it melds whimsical flavors and textures that both kids and adults adore. In just a few steps, you’ll create a sweet centerpiece that looks like it belongs in a holiday magazine, yet it’s super simple—no special skills required! So grab your apron, and let’s turn those festive vibes into a delicious treat that will have your loved ones reaching for seconds!
Why are Christmas Wreath Cookies a crowd favorite?
Colors pop: Vibrant green and red hues make these treats visually stunning and perfect for holiday festivities.
Quick to make: The simple steps mean you can whip up a batch in no time, leaving plenty of room for last-minute gift wrapping.
Fun for all ages: Involve the kids! Shaping and decorating these cookies encourages creativity and makes for cherished holiday memories.
Versatile toppings: Swap out candies to customize flavors, or add festive sprinkles for an extra touch. These wreaths are as unique as your family traditions!
Guaranteed smiles: No one can resist the gooey marshmallow and crunchy cornflake combination, ensuring happy faces all around.
Christmas Wreath Cookies Ingredients
Discover the magic that makes these Christmas Wreath Cookies a holiday favorite!
For the Treat Mixture
- 1 stick of butter (1/2 cup) – Essential for creating that rich flavor and helping to bind the ingredients together.
- 30 large marshmallows – Provides the gooey texture that holds everything together beautifully.
- 6 drops green gel food coloring or 1 and 1/4 teaspoons liquid green food coloring – Adds that festive color that makes these wreaths eye-catching!
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall sweetness and aroma of the treats.
- 5 cups cornflakes – Adds the perfect crunch that contrasts with the soft marshmallows.
For the Decoration
- 1 bottle of red hot candies or 1/2 cup red candy coated chocolates (such as mini M&M’s) – Sprinkle on top for a burst of festive color and a delightful sweet surprise.
- cooking spray – Lightly coat your pan to ensure your wreaths come out perfectly without sticking.
How to Make Christmas Wreath Cookies
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over low heat. This should only take a couple of minutes; watch closely to avoid browning.
- Stir in the marshmallows, mixing until completely melted and smooth. The mixture should be glossy and sticky, perfect for binding!
- Remove from heat and add the green food coloring and vanilla extract, stirring well to achieve a lovely festive hue. Breathe in that delicious aroma!
- Fold in the cornflakes gently, ensuring every flake gets coated in that luscious, gooey marshmallow mixture. It should look bright and cheerful!
- Press the mixture into a greased pan, pressing firmly to create an even layer. Ensure it packs tightly, so your wreaths hold their shape.
- Decorate by sprinkling red hot candies or red candy-coated chocolates on top before it sets. This addition will pop with color and add a sweet surprise!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of edible glitter for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Christmas Wreath Cookies Variations
Let your creativity shine as you tweak these festive treats into something uniquely yours!
- Nutty Crunch: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for a delightful crunch and rich flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle over the top for a sweet, velvety finish. This will add a lovely contrast to the flavors.
- Fruit Fusion: Mix in dried cranberries or cherries for a burst of fruity flavor and additional color. These add a lovely chewy texture!
- S’mores Style: Incorporate mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers into the mixture for a s’mores twist! This combination brings a beloved campfire treat vibe.
- Coconut Flakes: Add 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist—just fold it gently into the mixture! This addition can transport you to a sunny beach.
- Spicy Sugar: Sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg on top before it sets for a warm, spicy note that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- Fruit-Flavored Marshmallows: Swap regular marshmallows with fruit-flavored ones like strawberry or blue raspberry for a fun and fruity variation. Your kids will love the surprise!
- Sugar-Free Option: Use sugar-free marshmallows and a natural butter substitute for a lower-sugar version that still tastes fantastic. Your health-conscious friends will appreciate this twist!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Wreath Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and chewy.
Fridge: If you want them to last longer, refrigerate the cookies in a sealed container for up to 1 week; just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: Freeze the cookies by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Reheating: For a warm treat, you can gently reheat them in the microwave for about 10 seconds—this brings back that gooey marshmallow goodness in your Christmas Wreath Cookies!
What to Serve with Christmas Wreath Cookies?
These delightful treats are perfect for creating a festive atmosphere, making your dessert table sparkle with joy.
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Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of cocoa complements the sweetness of the cookies, creating a cozy holiday pairing. Imagine sipping cocoa while nibbling on these treats by the fire.
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Milkshake: Indulge in a festive milkshake for a fun twist! The creamy, cold treat contrasts beautifully with the crunchy wreaths, perfect for kids and adults alike.
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Fruitcake: The rich flavors of traditional fruitcake bring a classic holiday touch, enhancing the festive spirit and providing a delightful texture contrast.
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Pumpkin Pie: This creamy classic offers spices that marry deliciously with the sweetness of the wreath cookies, making a nostalgic dessert experience.
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Gingerbread Cookies: The warm, spiced flavor of gingerbread pairs perfectly, creating a lovely holiday spread that everyone will adore.
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Eggnog: This creamy, spiced drink is a holiday staple that enhances the sweetness of any dessert, creating a little festive magic with every sip.
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Apple Cider: Serve warm or cold, the tartness of apple cider balances the sweetness of the wreath cookies, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the sugary treats.
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Christmas Pudding: Rich and dense, this traditionally boiled dessert can be an elegant finish to any holiday meal, offering a lovely contrast to the lightness of the wreaths.
Elevate your holiday gathering with these delightful pairings, ensuring a memorable culinary celebration!
Expert Tips for Christmas Wreath Cookies
- Butter Tips: Use unsalted butter for better control over the sweetness of your Christmas Wreath Cookies; salted butter can alter the flavor balance.
- Marshmallow Melting: Melt marshmallows slowly over low heat to prevent scorching; stirring constantly helps achieve a smooth texture.
- Food Coloring: Start with a few drops of green gel food coloring and adjust as needed to achieve your desired shade, ensuring vibrant cookies!
- Cornflake Coating: Gently fold cornflakes into the marshmallow mixture to avoid crushing them, preserving that essential crunch in your wreaths.
- Press Firmly: When pressing the mixture into the pan, ensure it’s compact; this will help your Christmas Wreath Cookies hold their shape after cutting.
- Creative Toppings: Feel free to swap red hot candies with other festive treats like chocolate-covered raisins or green sprinkles for a unique festive flair!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Wreath Cookies are perfect for those busy holiday weeks when time is scarce! You can prepare the marshmallow mixture and press it into the greased pan up to 24 hours in advance. Just make sure to tightly cover the pan to prevent any drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the red candies on top and let the mixture set for a few minutes; it will stay just as delicious and colorful! If you prefer to do more prep, the cornflakes can be stored separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their crunch, making your final assembly quick and easy!
Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of marshmallows should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using large marshmallows for this recipe as they melt smoothly and create that ideal gooey texture. If you only have mini marshmallows, you can substitute them, but keep in mind you’ll need about 3 cups to match the volume of 30 large marshmallows!
How should I store the Christmas Wreath Cookies?
To keep your delightful wreaths fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer a longer storage solution, refrigerating them in a sealed container extends their life to about a week. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a bit before serving to reinvigorate their texture!
Can I freeze Christmas Wreath Cookies?
Certainly! To freeze, wrap the cookies tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer them to the fridge overnight or allow them to thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours.
What if my cornflakes become soggy?
If you notice your cornflakes have turned a bit soggy, it’s crucial to fold them into the melted marshmallow mixture gently and quickly. Work swiftly after melting the marshmallows to minimize exposure to moisture. Also, pressing them firmly into the pan helps reduce sogginess. Cornflakes are best when added just before you press them into shape!
Are these cookies suitable for pets?
While the ingredients are safe for humans, it’s best to keep these Christmas Wreath Cookies away from pets. Foods like chocolate and certain candies can be harmful to dogs, so it’s wise to enjoy these at home and ensure your furry friends stick to their treats. If anyone has allergies, be sure to check the ingredient labels carefully!
Can I customize the decorations for my Christmas Wreath Cookies?
Very! These treats are wonderfully versatile. You can swap the red hot candies for green sprinkles, use chocolate-covered raisins, or even mini marshmallows for a twist. Creating your unique version can be a fun way to personalize your Christmas celebrations!
Festive Christmas Wreath Cookies That Wow Every Holiday Guest
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over low heat.
- Stir in the marshmallows, mixing until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and add the green food coloring and vanilla extract, stirring well.
- Fold in the cornflakes gently, ensuring every flake gets coated.
- Press the mixture into a greased pan, pressing firmly.
- Decorate by sprinkling red hot candies or red candy-coated chocolates on top before it sets.