Cornflake Wreath Cookies Recipe

Festive Cornflake Wreath Cookies Recipe: Simple Holiday Joy

Holiday baking takes a whimsical turn with these charming cornflake wreath cookies that sparkle with festive green color and sweet marshmallow magic.

Clusters of crispy cereal bend into delightful ring shapes that remind you of classic Christmas decorations.

Sticky marshmallow mixtures bind each treat together, creating a nostalgic dessert perfect for seasonal gatherings.

Delicate and light, these cookies capture childhood memories with their playful appearance and sugary charm.

Small hands love helping shape these cheerful wreaths, making them an ideal family activity during winter celebrations.

Sprinkled with festive red cinnamon candies, these treats bring joy and color to your holiday dessert spread.

You won’t be able to resist their cheerful green goodness and irresistible crunch.

Why Cornflake Wreath Cookies Make Holiday Magic

  • Craft Holiday Magic: Transform simple cornflakes into a stunning, festive wreath that sparkles with seasonal cheer and brings family together.
  • Blast Through Preparation: Minimal ingredients and quick assembly make this recipe perfect for busy cooks wanting to create something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Design Delightful Decorations: Add personal creative touches with colorful candies and powdered sugar, turning a basic treat into a showstopping centerpiece for holiday gatherings.
  • Engage All Ages: Kids and adults can join the fun, helping shape the wreath, placing candies, and enjoying the delicious process of making this playful dessert together.

What You’ll Need For Cornflake Wreath Cookies

For the Base:
  • Cornflakes: Crispy cereal that provides the primary structure and crunch for the holiday wreath.
  • Marshmallows: Sweet binding agent that melts into a sticky mixture to hold the wreath together.
  • Butter: Richness enhancer that helps create a smooth, glossy base for the mixture.
For the Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, sweet undertone that complements the marshmallow base.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
For the Decorative Elements:
  • Green Food Coloring: Creates a festive green color reminiscent of holiday greenery.
  • Red Candies: Mimics holly berries for a traditional Christmas wreath appearance.
  • Powdered Sugar: Provides a delicate, snow-like finish to the completed wreath.

How To Shape Cornflake Wreath Cookies Like A Pro

Step 1: Prepare Baking Surface

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to create a non-stick surface for easy cookie removal.

Step 2: Melt Butter

In a spacious, heavy-bottomed saucepan, gently melt butter over low heat, stirring continuously to prevent burning.

Step 3: Incorporate Marshmallows

Add marshmallows to the melted butter and stir persistently until they transform into a smooth, glossy mixture.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

Remove the pan from heat and quickly blend in:
  • Vanilla extract
  • Salt

Ensure a uniform consistency throughout the mixture.

Step 5: Fold in Cornflakes

Carefully fold cornflakes into the marshmallow blend, gently coating each flake without crushing them and maintaining even distribution.

Step 6: Add Holiday Color

Introduce green food coloring to the mixture, stirring carefully to create a vibrant, festive holiday appearance.

Step 7: Shape Wreath

Using buttered hands or a silicone spatula, delicately form the mixture into a wreath-like shape on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 8: Decorate with Berries

Strategically place red candies around the wreath to resemble holly berries, gently pressing them into the surface.

Step 9: Let Cool and Set

Allow the wreath to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes until it becomes firm and maintains its shape.

Step 10: Finish with Powdered Sugar

Lightly dust the completed wreath with powdered sugar, creating a delicate, snow-like coating.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy

Once fully cooled, slice into individual servings or break into rustic pieces for a delightful holiday treat.

Top Tips For Festive Cornflake Wreath Cookies

  • Prep Baking Sheet Smartly: Line with parchment paper or silicone mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cookie removal.
  • Master Butter Melting: Use low heat and stir constantly in a heavy-bottomed saucepan to avoid burning and achieve smooth consistency.
  • Color with Care: Add green food coloring gradually and mix gently to create a vibrant, festive holiday look without creating streaks.
  • Decorate Strategically: Place red candies carefully to mimic holly berries, pressing them gently into the surface for a professional finish.
  • Cool Completely: Let the wreath set at room temperature for 30 minutes, allowing it to firm up and maintain its shape before serving.

Fun Ways To Switch Up Cornflake Wreath Cookies

  • Gluten-Free Holiday Wreath: Replace cornflakes with gluten-free rice cereal, ensuring celiac-friendly enjoyment without compromising taste or texture.
  • No-Bake Chocolate Version: Swap green food coloring for cocoa powder, adding melted dark chocolate drizzle and chocolate sprinkles for a rich, decadent alternative.
  • Nutty Winter Crunch: Incorporate chopped almonds or pecans into the marshmallow mixture, providing extra crunch and nutty warmth for sophisticated palates.
  • Vegan Festive Wreath: Use plant-based butter substitute, vegan marshmallows, and dairy-free white chocolate chips, creating an inclusive holiday treat for everyone.

What To Serve With Cornflake Wreath Cookies

  • Pair Creamy Eggnog: Complement the sweet, festive cornflake wreath with a classic holiday eggnog, enhancing the seasonal flavor profile.
  • Serve Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Create a delightful contrast by offering a rich, minty hot chocolate that matches the green wreath's holiday spirit.
  • Match Spiced Chai Latte: Elevate the dessert experience with a warm, aromatic chai latte that balances the wreath's sweetness and provides a cozy touch.
  • Garnish with Sparkling Prosecco: Add a celebratory fizz with a light, bubbly prosecco that cuts through the treat's sugary richness and adds elegance.

How To Store Cornflake Wreath Cookies Without The Crunch Fading

  • Wrap the wreath tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
  • Place the wreath in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 2 weeks. Thaw at room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving.
  • Keep the wreath in a sealed container at room temperature for 2-3 days. Ensure the area is cool and dry to prevent marshmallow mixture from becoming sticky.
  • Gently warm individual pieces in the microwave for 5-10 seconds. Alternatively, let the wreath sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften slightly before serving.

Cornflake Wreath Cookies Questions Answered

  • Why use cornflakes in this recipe?

Cornflakes provide a crispy, crunchy texture that helps the wreath hold its shape and adds a delightful crunch to each bite.

  • How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands?

Butter your hands or use a silicone spatula before shaping the wreath to prevent the sticky marshmallow mixture from clinging to your hands.

  • Can I use different candies for decoration?

Absolutely! Feel free to use red M&Ms, red jellybeans, or any small red candies that complement the festive wreath design.

  • Is this recipe kid-friendly to make?

Yes, kids can help with decorating the wreath and placing the red candies, making it a fun holiday activity for the whole family.

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Cornflake Wreath Cookies Recipe

Cornflake Wreath Cookies Recipe


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4.8 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Festive holiday “cornflake wreath cookies” sparkle with green-tinted marshmallow magic and cheerful sprinkle decorations. Holiday bakers can craft these nostalgic treats quickly, delighting friends and family with a classic Christmas sweet.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 cups cornflakes
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 4 cups mini marshmallows

Binding/Sweetening Ingredients:

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Color/Decoration Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup green food coloring
  • 1/4 cup red candies or red hots
  • 1 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone mat, ensuring a non-stick surface for easy cookie removal.
  2. In a spacious, heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt butter over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
  3. Once butter is completely liquefied, add marshmallows and continue stirring until they transform into a smooth, glossy mixture.
  4. Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in vanilla extract and salt, blending thoroughly to create a uniform consistency.
  5. Gradually fold cornflakes into the marshmallow mixture, gently coating each flake without crushing them, ensuring even distribution.
  6. Drop a few drops of green food coloring into the mixture, stirring carefully to achieve a vibrant, festive holiday hue.
  7. Using buttered hands or a silicone spatula, carefully shape the mixture into a wreath-like form on the prepared baking sheet.
  8. Strategically place red candies around the wreath to mimic holly berries, pressing them gently into the surface.
  9. Allow the wreath to set and cool at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes until it becomes firm and holds its shape.
  10. Lightly dust the completed wreath with powdered sugar for a delicate, snow-like finish.
  11. Once fully cooled, slice into individual servings or break into rustic pieces for serving.

Notes

  • Prevent sticky hands by lightly coating them with butter or cooking spray when shaping the wreath, ensuring smooth and effortless molding.
  • Swap green food coloring with natural alternatives like matcha powder or spirulina for a healthier, more vibrant green color that adds nutritional benefits.
  • Experiment with different candies like mini M&Ms, sprinkles, or crushed peppermint for creative variations that personalize the holiday treat.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, separating layers with parchment paper to maintain their crisp texture and prevent sticking.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: No-Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 11 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
Truc Tran (Kris)

Truc Tran (Kris)

Senior Food Editor

Expertise

Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert

Education

  • Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) at TasTAFE
  • Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
  • Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef at HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program)

Truc Tran (Kris), an experienced food writer and editor, is great at exploring and describing global cuisines, from simple street food to fancy dining. In her writing, she skillfully mixes different flavors, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, showing the unique character of various cultures through their food and drinks. On azcuisines.com, Kris highlights her knowledge, especially in Asian cuisine and worldwide traditional dishes.

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