Nut-Filled Wreaths
Nut-filled wreaths are festive, buttery cookies with crunchy pecans and sweet candied cherries, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions needing a rich, nutty treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the softened butter and gradually add the granulated sugar, mixing until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla until well combined.
- Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour to form a soft dough.
- Remove 1/3 cup of dough and set aside.
- Mix the remaining dough with the finely chopped pecans, light corn syrup, and almond flavoring.
- Shape the dough into wreaths or rings, using the reserved dough to create decorative accents if desired.
- Place on baking sheets and bake at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown, about 12-15 minutes.
- Decorate with sliced candied cherries as desired before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. If pecans aren't available, walnuts or almonds can serve as suitable substitutes. To ensure even baking, rotate the baking sheets halfway through the baking time. Allow the wreaths to cool completely before decorating to prevent the cherries from sliding off.
Serving Suggestions
These nut-filled wreaths are perfect for holiday gatherings and pair beautifully with a cup of Fireplace Hot Chocolate. Serve them alongside a selection of cookies, such as Eloise'S Cookies, for a festive dessert spread. A sprinkle of powdered sugar can add a nice touch for presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover nut-filled wreaths in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nut-Filled Wreaths contains roughly 1714 calories, with 42g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 130g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (94% of the Daily Value), protein (84% of the Daily Value), and iron (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 26g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before shaping it into wreaths.
How can I make these wreaths more festive?
You can enhance the festive appeal by adding colored sprinkles or edible glitter along with the candied cherries. Drizzling melted white chocolate over the wreaths after they cool can also add a lovely touch. Consider pairing them with other holiday treats for a delightful display.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
To make a gluten-free version of these wreaths, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for better texture. Additionally, always check that your other ingredients, like baking powder or extracts, are gluten-free.
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).