Holiday Treat Holly Wreaths
Festive holiday treat featuring buttery, creamy wreath-shaped cookies decorated with cinnamon candies, perfect for sharing during celebrations and adding a sweet, aromatic touch to any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter and cream cheese; add sugar and mix well.
- Add vanilla extract.
- Add flour and green food coloring; mix well.
- Put the dough through a cookie press using a star plate and form into wreath shapes on baking sheets.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8 to 10 minutes until lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely.
- Frost with white icing and decorate with cinnamon candies.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding crushed nuts or chocolate chips to the dough for added texture. If you don't have green food coloring, you can use matcha powder for a natural color. Make sure to chill the dough for 30 minutes before using the cookie press if it's too soft. This recipe can also be adapted for different holidays by changing the icing colors and decorations.
Serving Suggestions
These festive wreaths make a delightful addition to any holiday cookie platter. Serve them alongside other treats like Orange Pumpkin Cookies for a colorful spread. Pair with a warm cup of cocoa or spiced cider to enhance the holiday spirit. They also look great on a dessert table at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled wreath cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. You can also freeze the unbaked dough for up to three months; just thaw it in the fridge before using.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Treat Holly Wreaths contains roughly 108 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 11g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a few days in advance and refrigerate it. Alternatively, the baked cookies can be made and stored in an airtight container for up to a week. This allows you to enjoy fresh cookies without the last-minute rush.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free wreaths, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum, or add some separately to help with the texture. This way, you can enjoy delicious holiday treats without gluten.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for cream cheese, consider using mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Both options will help maintain the cookies' creaminess while keeping the flavor profile intact.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).