Christmas cookies and festive desserts are at the heart of holiday traditions, bringing families together to bake, decorate, and indulge in sweet seasonal treats. If you’re looking for a simple, no-bake dessert that’s as adorable as it is delicious, Cornflake Wreath Christmas Cookies are the perfect choice! These vibrant green wreaths, adorned with red “berries,” add a festive touch to any holiday dessert spread. Plus, they’re a wonderful recipe to make with kids. If you want to host a cookie exchange, this is a "cookie" that will WOW everyone.
And while we're on the topic, check out aaaaall the other fantastic cookie recipes that I love.
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Why You’ll Love These Cornflake Wreath Christmas Cookies
No-Bake Convenience: Skip the oven and save time—perfect for last-minute holiday prep.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Little ones will love shaping the wreaths and decorating with candies.
Festive Appeal: The vibrant green color and red accents make these cookies a showstopper.
Make-Ahead Friendly: These cookies can be prepared in advance, so you can focus on other holiday tasks.
Customizable: Add edible glitter, sprinkles, or different candies for a unique twist.
Ingredient Notes
These Cornflake Wreath Christmas Cookies require a few ingredients:
- Salted Butter: Adds a rich, creamy base for the marshmallow mixture.
- Mini Marshmallows: The gooey glue that holds the Cornflakes together. Substitute with large marshmallows if needed (about 40 pieces).
- Pure Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the overall flavor.
- Green Food Coloring: Creates the vibrant wreath color. Adjust the amount for your desired shade.
- Cornflake Cereal: The crunchy base for the cookies.
- Mini Red M&Ms or Red Hots: These act as the holly berries, adding a festive finishing touch.
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Cornflake Wreath Christmas Cookies
- Melt the Butter and Marshmallows: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the marshmallows, stirring constantly, until they’re completely melted and smooth.
- Add Vanilla and Food Coloring: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and green food coloring. Adjust the coloring if you want a deeper green shade.
- Mix in the Cornflakes: Gently fold in the Cornflake cereal until it’s fully coated in the marshmallow mixture.
- Form the Wreaths: Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper. Drop heaping spoonfuls (about ¼ cup, greased) of the mixture onto the sheet, then use your fingers to shape each mound into a wreath by pressing down the center and spreading the edges slightly. Be careful, as the mixture may still be warm!
Pro Tip: Either spray your hands with non-stick cooking spray or wet them so the mixture doesn’t stick. - Decorate: Place three mini red M&Ms or red hot candies on each wreath to look like holly berries before they set.
- Set and Serve: Let the wreaths cool and set at room temperature or in the fridge for about an hour. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Fun Variations on Cornflake Wreath Christmas Cookies to Try
Chocolate-Dipped Wreaths
Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the wreaths for a decadent touch.
Peppermint Twist
Add crushed peppermint candies to the marshmallow mixture or sprinkle them on top for a minty holiday vibe.
Mixed Berries
Experiment with colorful candies like mini Skittles or jellybeans to create multicolored “berries.”
Snowy Wreaths
Dust the cookies with powdered sugar to give them a frosty look.
Nutty Crunch
Mix in chopped pistachios or almonds for added texture and flavor.
How to Get Kids Involved
Christmas Cornflake Wreath Cookies are perfect for making with kids. Here’s how little helpers can join the fun:
Decorating: Let them place the candies and sprinkle on glitter for a personal touch.
Mixing: Older kids can gently fold in the cereal.
Shaping: Encourage creativity by letting kids shape the wreaths themselves.
Tips for the Best Cornflake Wreath Christmas Cookies
Shaping Tip: If you struggle to create perfect circles, use a greased round cookie cutter as a guide.
Add a Sparkle: Edible glitter or Christmas-themed sprinkles can elevate the festive look.
Make Ahead: These cookies keep well for 4–5 days in an airtight container, making them ideal for holiday parties or gifting.
Dietary Substitutions: To make the recipe gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free cereal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cereal for this recipe?
Yes! While Cornflakes are traditional, Rice Krispies or Cheerios could work as a substitute, though the texture will be different.
How do I store the cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! These are a great make-ahead dessert. Prepare them a day or two in advance for stress-free holiday hosting.
Can I freeze the cookies?
While freezing is possible, the texture of the cereal may change slightly upon thawing. If you choose to freeze, layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can also:
- Serve them alongside hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
- Add them to a holiday dessert platter with other Christmas cookies.
- Wrap them individually in clear cellophane bags with festive ribbons for gifting.
Other Christmas Treats You'll Love...
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Printable Recipe
Christmas Cornflake Wreath Cookies
Equipment
- medium pot
- Rubber spatula or mixing spoon
Ingredients
- ½ cup salted butter (1 stick)
- 1 10- ounce package mini marshmallows (or approx 40 large marshmallows)
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon green food coloring (add a little more for a deeper color)
- 4 ½ cups Cornflake Cereal
- 45 mini red M&Ms (or red hots candy)
Instructions
- Melt the Butter and Marshmallows: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the marshmallows, stirring constantly, until they’re completely melted and smooth.
- Add Vanilla and Food Coloring: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and green food coloring. Adjust the coloring if you want a deeper green shade.
- Mix in the Cornflakes: Gently fold in the Cornflake cereal until it’s fully coated in the marshmallow mixture.
- Form the Wreaths: Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper. Drop heaping spoonfuls (about ¼ cup, greased) of the mixture onto the sheet, then use your fingers to shape each mound into a wreath by pressing down the center and spreading the edges slightly. Be careful, as the mixture may still be warm! Pro Tip: Either spray your hands with non-stick cooking spray or wet them so the mixture doesn’t stick.
- Decorate: Place three mini red M&Ms or red hot candies on each wreath to look like holly berries before they set.
- Set and Serve: Let the wreaths cool and set at room temperature or in the fridge for about an hour. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Video
Notes
- Use greased or wet hands or a spoon to shape the wreaths and prevent sticking.
- For extra festivity, add a little edible glitter or sprinkles on top!
- A great make-ahead recipe that the kids can help with!!
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