These Cornflake Christmas Wreath Cookies are a festive treat that combines crunch, sweetness, and holiday charm in every bite. With just 20 minutes from start to finish, they’re perfect for busy bakers craving a quick yet impressive dessert. The golden cornflakes add a delightful crispiness, while the gooey marshmallow and butter base creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture. A hint of green food coloring and red cinnamon candies make them as visually stunning as they are delicious.
These wreath-shaped cookies are not only fun to make but also a nostalgic nod to classic holiday flavors. The balance of sweet marshmallow and buttery richness is irresistible, making them a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Whether you’re hosting a party or gifting a batch, these cookies are sure to spread joy and holiday cheer. Plus, their vibrant colors and festive shape make them a standout addition to any dessert table.
What You’ll Need
- 5 ½ cups corn flakes (slightly crushed for better texture)
- ½ cup butter (unsalted recommended, but salted works too)
- 5 cups miniature marshmallows (or substitute with regular marshmallows, chopped)
- ½ teaspoon green food coloring (adjust for desired shade)
- ½ cup mini M&M’s (red, for festive topping)
How to Make Cornflake Christmas Wreath Cookies
- Prepare the corn flakes: Place the slightly crushed corn flakes into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- Melt the butter: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once fully melted, add the miniature marshmallows and stir continuously until completely smooth and melted.
- Add color: Stir in the green food coloring until the mixture is evenly tinted. (Tip: Add a few drops at a time to achieve your preferred shade of green.)
- Combine: Pour the melted marshmallow mixture into the bowl with the corn flakes. Stir gently but thoroughly until the corn flakes are evenly coated.
- Shape the wreaths: Lay out a piece of parchment paper on your counter. Using a spoon, dollop portions of the mixture onto the parchment. Grease your hands with butter or cooking spray, then shape each portion into a small wreath shape. (Tip: Work quickly while the mixture is still warm and pliable.)
- Decorate: Press a few red mini M&M’s onto each wreath to resemble holly berries. Let the wreaths set at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before serving or storing.
Festive Topping Ideas for Your Wreaths
While red mini M&M’s are a classic choice, you can get creative with your wreath toppings! Try using crushed peppermint candies for a minty twist, or sprinkle on edible glitter for a sparkling effect. For a nutty flavor, add a few chopped pistachios or sliced almonds as “holly leaves.”
How to Store and Keep Your Wreaths Fresh
These cookies are best enjoyed the day they’re made, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To prevent sticking, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers. Avoid refrigeration, as it can make the wreaths soggy.
Quick Tips for Shaping Perfect Wreaths
Greasing your hands with butter or cooking spray is key to shaping these cookies without a mess. For a more uniform look, use a small round cookie cutter as a guide to shape the wreaths. If the mixture starts to harden, gently reheat it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make it pliable again.
Fun Variations to Mix Things Up
Swap out the green food coloring for red or white to match different holiday themes. You can also replace corn flakes with rice cereal for a lighter texture. For a chocolatey twist, add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the melted marshmallow mixture.
Perfect Pairings for Your Holiday Treats
Serve these wreaths alongside a cup of hot cocoa or spiced cider for a cozy holiday treat. They also make a great addition to a cookie platter paired with gingerbread cookies or peppermint bark.
Cornflake Christmas Wreath Cookies
Ingredients
- 5 ½ cups corn flakes, slightly crushed
- ½ cup butter
- 5 cups miniature marshmallows
- ½ teaspoon green food coloring
- ½ cup mini M & M’s, red
Instructions
- Place corn flakes into a large bowl.
- Melt butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Once melted, add the marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted.
- Stir in food coloring.
- Pour melted marshmallows into the large bowl with the corn flakes. Stir until well coated.
- Lay out a piece of parchment paper on your kitchen counter.
- Dollop spoonfuls of the corn flake mixture onto the parchment paper.
- Grease clean hands with butter or cooking spray and use your fingers to shape each spoonful into an individual wreath.
- Top each wreath with red candies.