Name: Delicious Christmas Wreath Cookies to Brighten Your Holidays
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 47 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (or dairy-free margarine for vegan); 1 cup Sugar (brown sugar for a deeper flavor); 2 large Eggs (or applesauce for vegan); 2.5 cups Flour (all-purpose or gluten-free); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 2 cups Powdered Sugar (adjust water for consistency); 2 tablespoons Milk (or non-dairy milk); 1 teaspoon Green Food Coloring (mix to desired shade); 1 cup Sprinkles (festive shapes or colors); 1 cup Mini Chocolate Chips (for mixing in or decoration)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet scent of cinnamon and vanilla filled the air, pulling me deeper into the holiday spirit. There’s something truly magical about baking, especially when it comes to making Christmas Wreath Cookies. These delightful treats are not just visually stunning with their vibrant green icing and festive decorations; they’re also a breeze to whip up, making them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike. With their charming shape and cheerful appearance, they easily become a holiday favorite for cookie exchanges and family gatherings. Plus, with the option to mix in fun toppings or even create a gluten-free version, you’ll have something to please everyone at your holiday table. What festive twist will you add to your wreaths this year?

Why Are Christmas Wreath Cookies Special?

Visually Stunning: The vibrant green icing makes these cookies a festive centerpiece on any holiday table.
Incredibly Easy: With straightforward directions, even novice bakers can create these delightful treats.
Customizable Options: Feel free to mix in your favorite toppings or sprinkles to personalize each cookie.
Gluten-Free Friendly: A simple substitution allows everyone to indulge, making them versatile for gatherings.
Perfect for Sharing: Their charming presentation makes them a great choice for cookie exchanges!

Whether you’re also making Cone Crunch Cookies or looking for healthier options like Banana Oatmeal Cookies, these wreath cookies are sure to bring holiday cheer to your kitchen!

Christmas Wreath Cookies Ingredients

Get ready to create these festive delights!

For the Cookie Base

Butter – A must for rich flavor and tenderness; consider using dairy-free margarine for a vegan version.
Sugar – Adds sweetness; brown sugar can deepen the flavor for a more complex taste.
Eggs – Essential for binding; substitute with applesauce for a vegan option.
Flour – Provides structure; choose all-purpose or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Baking Powder – Helps the cookies rise for a delightful texture; keep this fresh for best results.

For the Frosting

Powdered Sugar – Sweet and smooth, this is the base for your festive icing; adjust water for desired consistency.
Milk or Non-Dairy Milk – Aids in achieving a creamy frosting texture; can be swapped with almond or oat milk.
Green Food Coloring – Brings that festive color to your cookies; mix in slowly to reach your perfect shade.

For Decoration

Sprinkles – Use festive shapes or colors to jazz up your wreath cookies; let your creativity shine!
Mini Chocolate Chips – These add both sweetness and visual appeal; they can be mixed in or used as decoration.

These Christmas Wreath Cookies will not only bring joy to your holiday gatherings but also allow for some creative expression in your baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Wreath Cookies

Step 1: Gather Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients and ensuring that the butter and eggs are at room temperature for smooth mixing. Arrange them on your countertop for easy access while preparing your delicious Christmas Wreath Cookies. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking once your dough is prepared.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. This process is crucial for incorporating air and ensuring an even rise in your Christmas Wreath Cookies. Once combined, set the bowl aside and focus on creaming the butter and sugar, as the right texture will greatly enhance your cookie’s tenderness.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The blend should appear pale and airy, indicating that you’ve successfully incorporated air into the mixture, essential for the perfect cookie texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Next, add the eggs one at a time to your butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter. Follow this by mixing in your vanilla extract. This step not only binds your ingredients but also enriches the flavors in your Christmas Wreath Cookies, enhancing their scrumptiousness.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gently blend the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tough cookies. When your dough starts to come together, you’ll know it’s ready for the next step. If desired, now is also the time to fold in mini chocolate chips for an extra touch of sweetness.

Step 6: Shape Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough and roll it into balls before placing them onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. You should have around 12 cookies per sheet. Press each ball slightly to flatten them into thick disks; this step allows them to spread while baking, creating a lovely shape.

Step 7: Bake
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown while the centers remain slightly soft. Keep an eye on them as they bake, as the visual cue of golden edges will indicate they’re ready. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Step 8: Prepare the Frosting
While the cookies cool, combine powdered sugar, milk, and green food coloring in a medium bowl. Mix until you achieve a smooth, spreadable icing consistency. Adjust the thickness by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed, ensuring your frosting will beautifully coat the Christmas Wreath Cookies.

Step 9: Decorate the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cooled, use a spatula or piping bag to frost the tops with your vibrant green icing. Let your creativity shine by adding festive sprinkles or mini chocolate chips to mimic ornaments on the wreath. The contrast of colors will make your Christmas Wreath Cookies eye-catching and delicious at your holiday gatherings.

Step 10: Enjoy and Share
Now that your Christmas Wreath Cookies are beautifully decorated and ready, it’s time to share them! Present these delightful treats at cookie exchanges or family celebrations, and watch them bring smiles and holiday cheer to everyone. Enjoy the love and warmth these cookies will add to your festive season!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Wreath Cookies are ideal for busy bakers looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly and refrigerate. For added convenience, consider shaping the dough into balls and freezing them. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough on the baking sheet and add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Additionally, you can prep the frosting a day ahead and store it in an airtight container at room temperature; just give it a quick stir before decorating. These make-ahead options ensure your Christmas Wreath Cookies are just as delicious, allowing you to enjoy your holiday gatherings without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with Christmas Wreath Cookies?

As the delightful aroma of your freshly baked Christmas Wreath Cookies fills the kitchen, it’s the perfect moment to consider what other festive treats will accompany them at your holiday gatherings.

Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of rich hot chocolate is the classic pairing for these festive cookies, enhancing the cozy vibe of the season.
Eggnog: Creamy and spiced, eggnog complements the sweet flavors of the cookies, adding a touch of holiday cheer with each sip.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing bowl of mixed seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies while adding vibrant colors to your table.
Cheese Platter: Include a selection of soft cheeses, crackers, and nuts; the savory notes beautifully contrast the sweetness of the wreath cookies.
Coffee or Tea: The warm, rich flavors of coffee or herbal tea create a comforting pairing with these cookies, perfect for afternoon gatherings.
Gingerbread Cookies: Embrace the holiday spirit by serving another classic; the spices in gingerbread add a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the wreaths.
Christmas Punch: A citrusy holiday punch, complete with floating fruit slices, brings a festive flair that guests will enjoy alongside your charming cookies.
Ice Cream: Vanilla or peppermint ice cream can elevate your cookie experience, allowing guests to create their own festive sundaes.

Use these suggestions to enhance your holiday cookie spread, making your gathering filled with joy and delightful flavors!

Tips for the Best Christmas Wreath Cookies

• Optimal Temperature: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing, leading to smoother dough.

• Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine dry and wet ingredients to prevent tough cookies; stop mixing as soon as everything is blended.

• Chill the Dough: If your cookies spread too much, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes before baking for better shape retention.

• Creative Decorations: Feel free to mix in fun toppings or sprinkles which can enhance the festive presentation of your Christmas Wreath Cookies.

• Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies in the oven; remove them once the edges are golden but the centers still feel slightly soft for the best texture.

Christmas Wreath Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will make your holiday baking even more special!

Vegan Option: Substitute butter with coconut oil and replace eggs with applesauce for a delightful vegan treat.
Made right, you won’t even miss the dairy!
Gluten-Free Twist: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a direct swap for traditional flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
With the right ingredients, everyone can enjoy these festive cookies.
Flavor Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon of almond or peppermint extract to the dough for a unique flavor boost.
This simple swap turns your wreath cookies into a holiday signature!
Chocolate Delight: Swap half of the flour for cocoa powder for delicious chocolate wreath cookies.
You’ll be surprised how well the rich chocolate complements the festive vibe!
Color Variations: Use different food coloring for the icing, such as red or blue, to create a playful cookie display.
This adds an extra layer of fun and creativity to your holiday treats.
Texture Boost: Mix in crushed nuts or candy canes for added crunch and a hint of holiday spirit.
The extra texture will keep your taste buds excited with each bite!
No-Bake Version: Prepare cookie dough and chill it in the fridge, then roll out and cut into wreath shapes.
Easy and fuss-free, this is a perfect option for warm days!
Sprinkle Swap: Celebrate with seasonal sprinkles or colored sugar to match your holiday décor.
A little touch can go a long way in making these cookies festive!

These delightful variations will not only enhance your Christmas Wreath Cookies but also turn your kitchen into a holiday wonderland. If you’re also exploring easy options, consider making Cone Crunch Cookies or some sweet Banana Oatmeal Cookies to share with family and friends!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Wreath Cookies

Room Temperature: Store completely cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.

Fridge: If you live in a warmer climate, consider refrigerating them in an airtight container; they’ll stay fresh for up to 7 days.

Freezer: Freeze these joyous Christmas Wreath Cookies for up to 3 months in a sealed, freezer-safe bag or container. Allow them to cool completely before freezing to maintain texture.

Reheating: Enjoy these festive treats straight from the freezer or thaw them in the fridge overnight; for a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Christmas Wreath Cookies Recipe FAQs

What types of flour can I use for Christmas Wreath Cookies?
You can use all-purpose flour for a classic texture, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works wonderfully. Just ensure that it contains xanthan gum, which helps with structure.

How should I store my Christmas Wreath Cookies?
Once cooled, store your Christmas Wreath Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’re in a warmer climate, it’s best to refrigerate them for up to 7 days to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze Christmas Wreath Cookies, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, ensure they’ve cooled completely. Place them in a single layer inside a freezer-safe bag or container, layering sheets of parchment paper in between if stacking. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw overnight in the fridge, or reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your dough spreads excessively, don’t worry! Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before scooping and baking. This helps retain their shape and results in beautifully formed wreaths.

Can I customize my Christmas Wreath Cookies for dietary restrictions?
Yes! For a dairy-free version, simply substitute butter with dairy-free margarine. Additionally, you can replace eggs with unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg). Each of these changes will still yield delicious results while accommodating various dietary needs.

What kind of decorations can I use for my Christmas Wreath Cookies?
Feel free to get creative! Use festive sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or even edible glitter to enhance the visual appeal of your cookies. Decorating these treats is a fun way to personalize them for your holiday celebrations!