Begin by measuring 6 cups of cornflakes cereal into a large mixing bowl. This will serve as the delightful base for your Christmas Cornflake Wreath Cookies, adding that essential crunch. Make sure to break up any clumps of cornflakes gently so that each flake is well-distributed, ensuring every bite is filled with that trademark crispy texture.
In a large saucepan, melt ½ cup of butter over low heat, stirring occasionally. As the butter begins to melt, add in 5 heaping cups of mini marshmallows. Continue to stir the mixture until it’s completely melted and smooth, taking about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye out for any signs of burning; maintaining low heat will prevent that from happening.
Once the butter and marshmallow mixture is fully melted, stir in 1 teaspoon of green food coloring until evenly distributed. This will give your Christmas Cornflake Wreath Cookies that festive touch! Make sure to mix thoroughly until the color is vibrant and uniform throughout the gooey mixture.
Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the bowl of cornflakes. Using a spatula, carefully stir the mixture to coat all the cornflakes evenly. This should take about 2-3 minutes and will create a sticky, cohesive texture that binds the wreaths together. Be gentle to avoid crushing the cornflakes.
Now, prepare a sheet of parchment paper on your countertop. Using your hands, which should be lightly greased or dipped in water to prevent sticking, dollop spoonfuls of the cornflake mixture onto the parchment. Shape each dollop into a wreath form by creating a circle with a hole in the middle. Aim for a thickness of about 1 inch, and work quickly as the mixture will begin to set as it cools.
To finish decorating your Christmas Cornflake Wreath Cookies, place your desired amount of red hots or other candies on each wreath while they’re still warm. The heat will help secure the candies in place, making your cookies look festive and inviting. Sprinkle them generously or in patterns to enhance visual appeal.
Allow the wreaths to cool completely on the parchment paper, which will take about 30 minutes. Once set, transfer them to an airtight container for storage. These delightful Christmas Cornflake Wreath Cookies are now ready to be enjoyed! They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week or frozen for longer enjoyment, allowing your family to savor the festive spirit.