Soft, no-bake cornflake wreaths with marshmallow glaze—perfect for holiday cookie trays and gifting!
These retro cornflake wreath cookies are a nostalgic holiday favorite! No oven required, just butter, marshmallows, and cereal shaped into festive green wreaths with red candy 'berries.' Perfect for seniors, kids, or anyone craving a sweet, soft treat with a nostalgic twist.
Need a last-minute holiday treat that’s as photogenic as it is delicious? These cornflake wreath cookies are your answer. With a marshmallow base for softness and cornflakes for crunch, they’re easy to assemble in under 15 minutes. Add a sugared bow and red berries for instant cheer, then pack them in tins for gifting or serve them fresh on a cookie tray.
The retro design harks back to 70s-era holiday baking, but the no-bake method makes them modern and accessible. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for a nostalgic treat to share with family, these cookies are sure to disappear first.
Why This Recipe Works
Nostalgic Design
The wreath shape and red berries evoke vintage holiday baking, making these cookies a conversation starter.
15-Minute Assembly
No mixing or baking required—just press, shape, and decorate for instant results.
Family-Friendly Fun
Perfect for involving kids in holiday baking or creating personalized gifts for seniors.
Photogenic Presentation
The vibrant green and red colors make these cookies ideal for social media sharing and festive displays.
Retro Cornflake Wreath Cookies
No-bake holiday treat with marshmallow glaze
Ingredients
- - 6 cups crushed cornflakes
- - 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- - 2 cups mini marshmallows
- - 1/2 cup green food coloring (gel)
- - 30 red candy 'berries' (like Starbursts or red M&Ms)
- - 12 small sugared bows (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
Mix Base: In a large bowl, combine crushed cornflakes, melted butter, and marshmallows. Stir until a cohesive dough forms.
💡 Ensure the dough holds together when pressed. Add a few more marshmallows if too dry.
Divide Dough: Divide the dough into 24 equal portions (about 2 tablespoons each). Roll each into a ball, then flatten into discs.
💡 Use a kitchen scale for even portions if needed.
Shape Wreaths: Press each disc into a ring shape with a 1-inch hole in the center. Use a small cookie cutter or a glass for uniformity.
💡 Chill the shaped dough for 10 minutes to firm up.
Glaze: In a bowl, mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1-2 teaspoons milk and green food coloring until smooth. Drizzle over each wreath.
💡 Add red food coloring to the glaze for a gradient effect if desired.
Decorate: Press 3 red candies into each wreath as 'berries.' Add a sugared bow to the top of each cookie.
💡 Use edible gold glitter for a festive touch.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Cornflakes
Provides a crunchy texture and vibrant green color when dyed. Use whole-grain or gluten-free cornflakes for dietary needs.
Substitutions: Rice krispies (add 1 tsp honey to bind), puffed rice cereal, or crushed graham crackers.
Marshmallows
Adds softness and sweetness. Use mini marshmallows for easier mixing or vegan marshmallows for plant-based options.
Substitutions: Mini marshmallows, vegan marshmallows, or a 1:1 ratio of honey and cornstarch (1/2 cup each) for a homemade alternative.
Food Coloring
Gel food coloring ensures vibrant color without altering consistency. Use natural colorants like spinach puree for a less intense green.
Substitutions: Natural colorants (spinach, beet juice), or use pre-colored cornflakes.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cornflake Wreaths
Shape Consistency
Use a 3-inch round cookie cutter to ensure uniform wreaths. Chill the dough for 10 minutes before shaping for easier handling.
Glaze Tips
For a glossy finish, mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1 tsp milk and 1 tsp corn syrup. Apply with a pastry brush for even coverage.
Gift-Tin Ready
Pack cooled cookies in airtight tins lined with parchment paper. Add tissue paper and a holiday tag for a polished gift.
Photography Hacks
Shoot cookies on a white or wooden surface with natural light. Add a few extra berries and bows for visual interest in photos.
Variations & Customizations
Mini Wreaths
Make bite-sized cookies for appetizer platters or children’s parties. Use smaller candy pieces for decoration.
Chocolate Drizzle
Melt 1/4 cup chocolate chips and drizzle over cookies before adding berries for an extra festive touch.
Nutty Version
Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a crunchier texture and richer flavor.
Seasonal Colors
Use red and green cornflakes for Christmas, pastel colors for Easter, or gold and silver for New Year’s.
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Hot Cider: Spiced apple cider complements the sweet, nostalgic flavor.
- White Wine: A crisp Riesling or Chardonnay pairs well with the marshmallow glaze.
- Mini Sandwiches: Add to a holiday charcuterie board with cheese and cured meats.
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Serve with spiced chai tea or a festive eggnog for a holiday-themed treat.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Assemble and decorate cookies up to 3 days in advance. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Refrigerator Storage
Cookies can be refrigerated for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Freezer Storage
Freeze un-decorated dough balls for up to 2 months. Thaw and decorate as needed.
Reheating Instructions
Not required—cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: My dough is too dry. What should I do?
A: Add 1-2 more mini marshmallows or a teaspoon of milk to bind the dough. Knead gently until cohesive.
Q: Can I make these ahead for a party?
A: Yes! Assemble and decorate cookies up to 3 days in advance. Store in an airtight container to prevent the glaze from hardening.
Q: How do I prevent the glaze from sliding off?
A: Ensure the cookies are fully set before adding glaze. Chill for 10 minutes after shaping to firm up the dough.
Q: Can I use a different cereal?
A: Yes! Try puffed rice, corn puffs, or crushed graham crackers. Adjust the liquid content as needed.
Final Thoughts
These retro cornflake wreath cookies are a nostalgic, no-bake holiday treat that combines ease with festive charm. Whether you’re gifting them in tins or serving them on a cookie tray, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles and spark conversations about 70s-era baking. The soft marshmallow center and crunchy cornflake shell make them a crowd-pleaser for all ages, and the customizable decorations let you tailor them to any occasion.
For best Pinterest visibility, post this cookie recipe as part of a complete meal series over 5-7 days: start with the wreaths, followed by a festive main dish, and finish with a classic holiday dessert like a peppermint mousse. Happy baking!
