Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a festive treat that’s fun to make and absolutely delicious, then you’ve got to try this Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe. I absolutely love how these come together—bright green, chewy, and dotted with red candies that look just like little berries on a wreath. When I first made these, they became an instant hit with my family, and I swear, every holiday gathering needs a batch of these cheerful cookies!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient here plays a key role in building the perfect wreath-shaped cookie. You’ll want to start with good quality butter for that rich, creamy base and pick your favorite green food coloring to get those bright, festive hues. The combination of marshmallows and cornflakes gives you the best chewy-crunchy contrast, and don’t skip the red candies — they’re the “berries” that make these wreaths pop!

• Butter: This adds richness and helps the marshmallows melt smoothly without burning.
• Marshmallows: They’re the glue that holds the cookies together and create that chewy texture I adore.
• Green Gel or Liquid Food Coloring: Gel gives you a more vivid color without changing the texture; liquid works fine if that’s what you have.
• Vanilla Extract: It enhances flavor, adding just the right hint of warmth to balance the sweetness.
• Cornflakes: The crispy, flaky cereal offers the perfect crunch and texture.
• Red Candy-Coated Chocolates or Red Hot Candies: The red “berries” on your wreath — pick whichever candy you love best for decorating.
• Cooking Spray: Essential for greasing your hands and measuring cup to shape wreaths without sticking.

Variations

I like to have fun with this Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe by switching up the candy “berries” or adding a little twist to the flavor. Feel free to make it your own — you’ll find that tiny changes can make these uniquely yours while keeping the festive spirit alive!

• Use White Chocolate Chips: I swapped in white chocolate chips once for a creamier sweetness, which my family adored.
• Try Different Candy Decorations: Mini red M&M’s, cinnamon red hots, or even red sprinkles all work beautifully for the “berry” effect.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cornflakes and you’re good to go for those with sensitivities.
• Add Peppermint Extract: A splash of peppermint extract instead of vanilla can turn these cookies into a refreshing holiday treat.

How to Make Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Melt Butter and Marshmallows

Start by placing your butter and marshmallows in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until everything is melted and smooth. The trick I learned is to have patience here—don’t rush, or the marshmallows can burn or harden. A few gentle stirs will help the mixture stay silky.

Step 2: Mix in Color and Vanilla

Once melted, add your green food coloring and vanilla extract. Stir until the color is vibrant and the vanilla evenly distributed. I love using gel food coloring because it gives that bright Christmas green without watering down the mixture. If you only have liquid food coloring, just adjust the amount carefully.

Step 3: Coat the Cornflakes

Gently fold the cornflakes into your marshmallow mixture, making sure every flake gets covered. Go slowly here — you want the cereal intact, not crushed. The goal is that delightful crunch mixed with chewy marshmallow. This step always reminds me of making rice crispy treats but with a festive twist!

Step 4: Shape Your Wreaths

Grease your hands and a ¼ cup measuring cup with cooking spray to avoid sticky messes. Pack the mixture firmly into the measuring cup, then turn it out onto your lined baking sheet. Use your fingers (coated with cooking spray!) to gently press a hole in the middle, shaping the wreath. I found that damp fingers work wonders for making a perfect shape without breaking your cookie apart.

Step 5: Decorate with Candies

Now comes the fun part — decorating! Place red candies around your wreath to mimic holly berries. I love using mini M&M’s for their color pop, but red hot candies work great too if you want a spicy kick. Press them gently into the cookie so they stick as the wreaths cool.

Step 6: Let Them Set

Allow your lovely little wreaths to cool completely on the tray until firm. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes at room temperature. Once set, they’re ready to dazzle your holiday spread — or be wrapped up as a heartfelt homemade gift.

How to Serve Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I usually stick to those classic red candy-coated chocolates to garnish these wreaths, but sometimes I’ll swap in crushed peppermint or edible glitter for a little extra sparkle. It adds a bit of holiday magic that guests always notice and appreciate.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of cocoa or a festive punch. They also pair wonderfully with other holiday cookies like gingerbread or sugar cookies for a sweet spread that leaves everyone satisfied.

Creative Ways to Present

One year, I arranged these wreath cookies on a large platter lined with fresh evergreen sprigs and mini pine cones for a rustic look. Wrapping them in clear cellophane tied with a festive ribbon also makes beautiful gifts that look as good as they taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Christmas Wreath Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay delicious for up to 5 days, but honestly, they rarely last that long in my house! Keeping them away from heat prevents the marshmallows from getting too sticky or melting.

Freezing

If you want to freeze them, place the wreaths in a single layer on a baking sheet first to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. This avoids them sticking together. I’ve found freezing works well and they thaw quickly when you’re ready to enjoy again.

Reheating

These cookies are best eaten at room temperature or slightly cool. If you prefer warming them, a few seconds in the microwave (10-15 seconds) softens the marshmallows nicely but be careful not to melt the candy decorations.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe has been a joyful staple in my holiday baking lineup for years. It’s simple, quick, and the results are always festive and crowd-pleasing. Honestly, once you make these, you’ll find yourself reaching for the ingredients every December — maybe even making a batch or two as gifts! Give this recipe a try, invite some friends or family into your kitchen, and make some sweet holiday memories together.

Print