Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe

There’s something truly magical about the holidays when you bring out a tray of Christmas Wreath Cookies. I first made this Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe a few years back during a hectic December, and it instantly became my go-to festive treat. These cookies bring together that perfect crunch of cornflakes with the sweet, gooey marshmallow coating—plus those adorable red candy “berries” that make every bite feel like a little holiday celebration.

Whether you’re making them for a classroom party, a cozy night in with family, or as an irresistible gift, this Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe never disappoints. They’re easy to whip up even if you’re not a seasoned baker, and they look so charming on a cookie platter it’s hard not to share (although you might want to stash a few for yourself!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe comes from simple pantry staples that complement each other perfectly—sweet, crisp, and festive. When shopping, I recommend grabbing quality cornflakes (nothing too sugary), fresh marshmallows, and if you can find gel food coloring, it works much better than liquid to get a vibrant green wreath color.

• Butter: Use unsalted so you can control saltiness. It helps melt the marshmallows smoothly and adds richness.
• Large marshmallows: They melt better and give you that perfect gooey texture binding all the cornflakes together.
• Green gel food coloring or liquid green food coloring: Gel is thicker and gives a brighter color without watering down the marshmallow mixture.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle warmth and depth to the sweet base.
• Cornflakes: The crispy, slightly toasted flakes form the wreath shape and add crunch.
• Red hot candies or red candy-coated chocolates: These act as the “berries” on the wreath—pick the ones your family loves!
• Cooking spray: For greasing your hands and workspace—makes shaping the wreaths a breeze.

Variations

I love to switch things up a bit depending on who I’m sharing with and the supplies at hand. This recipe is super forgiving and encourages creativity—making it even more fun!

• Use white chocolate chips instead of marshmallows: I’ve tried melting white chocolate for a silkier, slightly different flavor that’s just as festive.
• Make mini wreaths using mini cornflakes: Perfect for bite-sized party treats or kids’ lunchboxes.
• For a nutty flair, add chopped pecans or walnuts: I’ve found this adds a lovely crunch and warmth—just watch for allergies.
• Switch out red hot candies for dried cranberries: If you prefer a less sweet, tangy “berry” alternative, this is a great option.
• Try vegan marshmallows and dairy-free butter: Making these friendly for friends with dietary preferences works amazingly well without losing flavor.

How to Make Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows

Start by melting the butter in a large saucepan over low heat—just until it’s melted and bubbling a bit. Then toss in those marshmallows and stir gently but constantly. You’ll want to watch closely here—easy does it! The marshmallows will soften and start to melt; this can take a few minutes but the key is to keep the heat low to avoid burning. When the mixture is smooth and gooey, remove from heat immediately.

Step 2: Add Color and Vanilla

Now it’s time for a splash of green magic. Add your green food coloring little by little, stirring well so you get a nice uniform wreath color. I usually start with a few drops of gel coloring—it’s more vibrant and less watery. Then add the vanilla extract and mix everything through. The smell of vanilla is one of my favorite little joyful moments in this step.

Step 3: Mix in the Cornflakes

Carefully pour your melted marshmallow mixture over the cornflakes in a large bowl. Using a spatula or a wooden spoon, gently fold the cornflakes into the mixture until all of them are coated evenly. You want to be thorough but gentle—try not to crush the flakes. This part gets a bit sticky, so having a cooking spray handy to grease your hands will help tremendously in the next step.

Step 4: Shape the Wreath Cookies

Spray your hands lightly with cooking spray to keep the mixture from sticking (trust me, this saves a LOT of frustration). Then scoop small handfuls of the mixture and gently press into flat rounds. Using your thumb, create a hole in the middle to form the wreath shape. If cracks appear, just press them together—it’s all part of their charming handmade look. Place each wreath on a lined baking sheet or wax paper-lined tray.

Step 5: Add the Berry Decorations and Let Set

Now for the final, fun touch—press red hot candies or red M&M’s onto the wreaths as little “berries.” It’s best to do this while the mixture is still warm so the candies stick nicely. Then let your wreaths cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Once set, they’re ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple and let the cookies shine on their own, but sometimes I sprinkle a little powdered sugar over the top to look like fresh snow. Another favorite is adding tiny sprigs of fresh rosemary or a small edible flower alongside on the serving plate for a fragrant holiday touch.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cozy cup of hot cocoa or spiced mulled cider—my go-to cozy combo during chilly evenings. If you’re serving to guests, a platter of assorted holiday cookies, including gingerbread and peppermint bark, rounds out the dessert table nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For family gatherings, I like stacking the wreath cookies in a tiered basket lined with festive napkins to showcase their wreath shape. Another fun trick I’ve used is tying three or four cookies together with a pretty ribbon, turning them into sweet edible gifts. Kids especially love this, and it makes for fantastic photo ops!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Christmas Wreath Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, separated by parchment paper to keep them from sticking together. They stay fresh and crisp for up to a week, though they rarely last that long in my house!

Freezing

Freezing these cookies works surprisingly well. I wrap individual wreaths in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When I’m ready to enjoy them, I thaw at room temperature for about an hour, and they retain their texture better than I expected.

Reheating

Since these are no-bake cookies, reheating isn’t really necessary, but if you’d like the marshmallow a bit gooier, a quick 5-7 seconds in the microwave (watch carefully!) will soften them up nicely. Just don’t overdo it, or they’ll get too sticky to handle.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I’ve made this Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe countless times now, and every holiday season it brings a little sparkle to my kitchen and smiles to the faces around the table. It’s one of those easy, cheerful recipes that’s approachable, quick, and utterly festive—perfect for making memories with friends and family. I really hope you’ll give it a try this year and make these wreaths a new tradition in your holiday baking. Trust me, you’ll love how simple and joyful this treat is!

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