Holly Wreaths
Delightful Holly Wreaths are festive, buttery cookies with a tender texture and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these charming treats are made with simple ingredients and shaped into wreaths, offering a delightful combination of buttery richness and sweet flavor that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar and beat in vanilla until well combined.
- Mix in the flour until the dough is blended.
- Chill the dough until firm.
- Use a cookie press to shape the dough into wreaths or various cookies.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes until lightly golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before creaming them together. If you don't have a cookie press, you can roll the dough into balls and shape them into wreaths by hand. Experiment with different flavorings, such as almond extract or lemon zest, for a unique twist. These cookies can also be decorated with icing or sprinkles for added flair.
Serving Suggestions
These Holly Wreaths make a delightful holiday treat that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Consider serving them alongside other festive desserts, like a slice of One-Step Yellow Cake, to create a dessert platter. They also make a charming addition to cookie exchanges or as gifts for friends and family during the holiday season.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you need to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holly Wreaths contains roughly 645 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value).
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 use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind it may alter the texture slightly, making the cookies less rich. Ensure it is softened to room temperature for the best results when creaming with the butter.
How do I make the dough easier to work with?
If the dough is too sticky to handle, chill it for an additional 15-30 minutes. This will firm it up, making it easier to shape with a cookie press or your hands. Remember that the dough should be cold before baking for the best cookie texture.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to the dough for extra flavor and texture. Additionally, consider using colored sugar to sprinkle on top before baking for a festive look, or drizzle with melted chocolate after cooling for an elegant touch.
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).