Name: Savory Splash: Irresistibly Fun Christmas Tree Pop Tarts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 package Pre-made Pie Crust (Can be substituted with homemade pie crust for a fresher taste.); 1 cup Strawberry or Raspberry Jam (Can swap for other flavors like peach or apricot to suit preferences.); 1 large Egg (Used as an egg wash to give cookies a golden finish.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (No substitutions necessary for intended sweetness.); 2 tablespoons Milk (Any type of milk can be used, including almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.); 3 drops Green Food Coloring (Omit if not desired; use natural colorants for healthier alternatives.); 1 cup Sprinkles or Edible Glitter (Optional, can use chopped nuts or coconut for a different texture.)

As the holiday season approaches, our homes begin to fill with the enchanting scents of cinnamon, gingerbread, and warm apples. I couldn't help but get swept up in the festive spirit one chilly afternoon when I found myself experimenting with a classic treat that captures the essence of these joyful months. Picture this: gooey, sweet jam nestled within a flaky crust, reminiscent of cherished fruit pastries. These Holiday Cornflake Cookies not only bring comfort and warmth but also add a delightful twist to your festive dessert table.

With minimal effort, these cookies quickly become a fun activity for the whole family, making togetherness a priority during this busy time. Imagine laughter and joy filling your kitchen as kids roll out dough and decorate with colorful sprinkles, transforming a simple recipe into a treasured holiday memory. So, gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let's create these irresistible cookies that are bound to impress both young and old alike. Who knew a few simple ingredients could lead to such delightful connections? Let's get baking!

Why You'll Love These Holiday Cornflake Cookies

Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.

Family Fun: Kids will love joining in on the fun, rolling out dough and decorating with colorful sprinkles.

Customizable Flavors: Swap out jams for your favorites, from strawberry to chocolate, it's all up to you!

Perfect for Celebrations: These cookies make a stunning addition to any holiday dessert table, delighting both young and old.

Quick Bake Time: In just 25 minutes, you'll have fresh, golden cookies ready for enjoyment, perfect for those last-minute gatherings.

So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy creating lasting memories while whipping up these festive treats!

Holiday Cornflake Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

Pre-made Pie Crust - Provides the flaky base for the cookies. Can be substituted with homemade pie crust for a fresher taste.
Strawberry or Raspberry Jam - Adds sweetness and flavor. Can swap for other flavors like peach or apricot to suit preferences.
Egg (beaten) - Used as an egg wash to give cookies a golden finish. Omit for a vegan version, or use a flaxseed or chia seed gel as a substitute.

For the Icing

Powdered Sugar - Used for sweetening the icing. No substitutions necessary for intended sweetness, but granulated sugar can be pulsed in a blender for a DIY version.
Milk - Helps in preparing the icing and achieving the right consistency. Any type of milk can be used, including almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Green Food Coloring - For festive icing to enhance visual appeal. Omit if not desired; use natural colorants for healthier alternatives.

For Decoration

Sprinkles or Edible Glitter - Adds decoration and festive flair. Optional, can use chopped nuts or coconut for a different texture.

With these simple, delightful ingredients, you're all set to create your very own Holiday Cornflake Cookies that will bring the warmth of togetherness to your festive celebrations!

How to Make Holiday Cornflake Cookies

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the first step to ensure your cookies bake evenly and become that perfect golden color.
Roll Out the pre-made pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Aim for about ¼ inch thick, giving it just the right texture for delicious crunch.
Cut Shapes using your favorite cookie cutters. These can be festive shapes like stars or Christmas trees to add to the holiday vibe!
Spoon Jam onto one half of each cookie shape. Use about a teaspoon of strawberry or raspberry jam per cookie-this will create that delightful gooey center.
Fold and Seal the edges well. Press them together to prevent any jam from leaking during baking. You want a nice, tight seal!
Brush Tops with a beaten egg for a glossy finish. This step gives your cookies that appealing, golden look.
Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them-baking times may vary, so you want that perfect hue!
Cool on a wire rack before decorating. This allows them to set nicely, making it easier when you add the icing and sprinkles.

Optional: Drizzle with icing and sprinkle colorful decorations for an extra festive touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Holiday Cornflake Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these cookies your own by trying out different flavors and textures!

Nutty Twist: Substitute jam with almond or peanut butter for a crunchy, nutty flavor that's delightfully rich.
Spiced Sensation: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pie crust for a warm, cozy spice that enhances holiday flavors.
Fruit Fusion: Swap traditional jam for a mix of diced dried fruits like apricots and cranberries, bringing a chewy texture and tartness.
Chocolate Delight: Use chocolate hazelnut spread instead of jam for a decadent twist that chocolate lovers can't resist.
Vegan Option: Omit the egg wash and substitute with non-dairy milk in the icing to enjoy a fully plant-based treat!
Savory Surprise: Experiment with herb-infused cheese spread as the filling for a unique savory take that pairs beautifully with holiday wines.
Crunch Factor: Top with crushed nuts, like pecans or walnuts, before baking to add a delightful crunch to each bite.
Zesty Citrus: Mix lemon or orange zest into the icing for a refreshing burst of flavor that cuts through the sweetness.

Storage Tips for Holiday Cornflake Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.

Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate the cookies. They can last in the fridge for up to 10 days and will still taste fresh.

Freezer: Freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container to prevent sticking, then thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating: If you want to enjoy them warm, microwave for about 10-15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through. Indulge in these Holiday Cornflake Cookies anytime you need a festive treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Holiday Cornflake Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their holiday baking! You can prepare the cookie shapes and fill them with jam up to 24 hours in advance. Simply roll out the dough, cut your shapes, and spoon in the jam before sealing the edges well. To maintain their delicious quality, cover the uncooked cookies with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. When it's time to enjoy these treats, just brush with egg wash, pop them in the oven, and bake for a quick 25 minutes. This way, you can have fresh cookies with minimal effort, perfect for festive gatherings!

Expert Tips for Holiday Cornflake Cookies

Seal It Right: Ensure to properly seal the edges of the cookies; if not, jam can ooze out during baking, leading to a messy result.
Chill That Dough: If the pie crust becomes sticky while working, chill it briefly in the fridge. This will make it easier to handle and cut.
Experiment with Jam: Feel free to switch jams for your personal favorites or even nut butters! This will not only provide variety but also cater to different taste preferences.
Watch the Bake: Ovens can vary, so start checking the cookies a few minutes early to catch that perfect golden brown color without burning.
Decorate Creatively: Let the kids express their creativity! Provide various decorations like sprinkles and edible glitter to make each cookie unique and festive.
Storage Solutions: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness. They make great snacks after the holiday fun!

What to Serve with Holiday Cornflake Cookies?

The joyous occasion of baking these cookies deserves a delightful spread to elevate your festive gathering.

Hot Cocoa: Warm and comforting, hot cocoa pairs perfectly with the flaky sweetness of cookies, bringing a cozy ambiance to your celebrations.
Eggnog: This creamy classic enhances the holiday spirit, with its rich, spiced flavor balancing the sweetness of your cornflake cookies.
Candied Nuts: Crunchy and slightly salty, candied nuts provide a delightful contrast to the sweet, gooey texture of the cookies, making each bite more interesting.
Fresh Fruit Platter: Vibrant fruits like sliced oranges, pomegranates, and berries add freshness and brighten up your dessert table, cutting through the richness beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts delightfully over warm cookies, creating a decadent dessert that everyone will love.
Spiced Wine: Whether mulled or warm, spiced wine is a wonderful adult pairing that complements the festive flavors of your cookie creations.
Gingerbread Men: For a themed touch, include classic gingerbread cookies. Their warm spices harmonize so well with the fruity flavors of your cornflake treats.
Holiday Tea: A fragrant herbal tea, perhaps with hints of cinnamon or vanilla, offers a soothing backdrop to your bustling holiday dessert spread.

Holiday Cornflake Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my pie crust is fresh enough to use?
Absolutely! A good pie crust should be pliable and not cracked. If you see dark spots all over or if it has an off smell, it's best to toss it. Always give it a quick touch to make sure it feels soft and fresh.

What's the best way to store leftover Holiday Cornflake Cookies?
The more you know! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just wrap each cookie in wax paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent them from sticking.

Can I freeze these cookies? If so, how?
Definitely! To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, placing parchment paper between layers if stacking. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.

What can I do if my cookies are leaking jam during baking?
Very important to check your seals! If this happens, it means the edges weren't sealed tightly enough. Next time, press the edges firmly together and even consider using a fork to crimp them for an extra secure seal.

Are these cookies safe for children, or do they contain allergens?
Great question! These cookies contain common allergens like wheat and eggs. If you're making them for kids with allergies, you can easily modify the recipe. Use a flaxseed or chia gel as a substitute for eggs and opt for gluten-free pie crusts. Always ensure the jam you choose is allergen-free as well!

How can I make my icing thicker for decorating?
Absolutely! To achieve a thicker icing, simply start with less milk and add it gradually until you reach your desired consistency. You can also add more powdered sugar to thicken it up. If it becomes too thick, just add a dash more milk. This way, you can control how drippy or thick you want that festive icing to be!

These Holiday Cornflake Cookies Recipe FAQs should help you craft the perfect festive treat filled with joy and deliciousness!