Red Hot Christmas Wreaths
Festive red hot Christmas wreaths are colorful, sweet holiday cookies shaped into wreaths with vibrant red accents, perfect for Christmas parties and holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Empty both mix pouches into a bowl.
- Add egg, water, and 3 to 4 drops of green food coloring.
- Mix well until dough is smooth.
- Form dough into 3/8-inch ropes, then cut into 4-inch pieces.
- Shape each piece into a wreath on an ungreased cookie sheet, placing them 2 inches apart.
- Decorate with candied cherry pieces or red hots.
- Bake for 6 to 7 minutes.
- Cool for 1 minute, then remove from the cookie sheet with a spatula.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough. If you're out of candied cherries, try using red M&M's as a colorful alternative. For a fun twist, mix in some crushed peppermint candies for added holiday cheer. Ensure your cookie sheet is truly ungreased; otherwise, the wreaths may spread too much when baking.
Serving Suggestions
These festive wreaths make a delightful centerpiece for holiday gatherings or cookie exchanges. Serve them alongside a warm cup of cocoa or coffee for a perfect pairing. They also add a cheerful touch to dessert platters, especially when combined with other treats like Pat-Pats Cookies or a slice of Apple Crumb Pie(Fast And Easy).
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover wreaths in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to maintain their freshness, place a piece of bread inside the container, as it helps absorb moisture. These cookies do not freeze well due to their decorative toppings, so it's best to enjoy them fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Hot Christmas Wreaths contains roughly 6 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 use a different cookie mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the Duncan Hines golden sugar cookie mix with any similar sugar cookie mix. Just be sure to check the instructions on the package, as baking times may vary slightly. For a more unique flavor, try a snickerdoodle or gingerbread mix during the holiday season!
How can I make these wreaths more festive?
To make your wreaths stand out, consider drizzling them with melted white chocolate or icing once they've cooled. You could also sprinkle edible glitter or colored sugar on top for an extra festive touch. Adding small edible ornaments can make them even more holiday-themed and visually appealing.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. This will make it easier to shape into ropes and wreaths. Additionally, you can lightly dust your hands and the work surface with flour to prevent sticking while forming the shapes.
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).