Bring a touch of magic to your holiday table with this White Christmas Wreath. These bite-sized, no-bake treats are perfect for parties, family gatherings, or as a stunning centerpiece for your Christmas table. Combining crunchy Rice Bubbles, sweet dried fruit, toasted nuts, and creamy whipped topping, this dessert is both visually beautiful and irresistibly delicious.
The White Christmas Wreath is ideal for those who love festive desserts that are easy to prepare yet impressive in presentation. Each piece is adorned with whipped cream, freeze-dried strawberries, and fresh berries, creating a colorful, edible holiday display. With a combination of textures—from crunchy to creamy to fruity—this recipe is sure to delight both kids and adults.
Whether you’re preparing for a Christmas party or just want to add a festive touch to dessert time, these no-bake treats are quick, fun, and customizable.
Ingredients for White Christmas Wreath
To make approximately 24 mini bites, you will need:
- ½ cup (115g) glace cherries, chopped – adds sweetness and festive color.
- ⅔ cup (120g) mixed dried fruit – provides chewy texture and natural sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons brandy – optional for a warm, aromatic flavor (can be replaced with apple juice or brewed tea).
- 2 teaspoons mixed spice – adds holiday warmth with cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove notes.
- 2 ½ cups (100g) Kellogg’s Rice Bubbles – the crunchy base.
- ⅔ cup (70g) powdered full cream milk – enhances creaminess.
- ½ (50g) slivered almonds, toasted – nutty crunch.
- ½ cup (70g) icing sugar, sifted – sweetens and binds the mixture slightly.
- ⅔ cup (55g) desiccated coconut – for festive texture and flavor.
- 250g Copha, chopped – binds the mixture and provides a firm, no-bake base.
- 300ml thickened cream – whipped for topping.
- Freeze-dried strawberries, chopped – for decoration.
- Fresh berries and cherries – for garnish and added freshness.
Tips and Substitutions:
- Replace brandy with apple juice or cooled brewed tea for a non-alcoholic version.
- Copha can be melted in the microwave in 30-second bursts instead of on the stove.
- You can make these 3–4 days in advance, storing them un-decorated in an airtight container in the fridge.
How to Make White Christmas Wreath
Step 1: Prepare Muffin Tins
Lightly grease 2 x 24-hole mini muffin tins with cooking spray. This ensures the treats release easily once set.
Step 2: Mix Fruit and Spices
In a small bowl, combine the chopped glace cherries, mixed dried fruit, brandy, and mixed spice. Stir well so the fruit absorbs the brandy and the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine Rice Bubbles, powdered milk, slivered almonds, icing sugar, and desiccated coconut. Stir the dry ingredients to mix thoroughly.
Step 4: Add Copha and Fruit Mixture
Melt Copha over low heat until fully liquid, then allow it to cool slightly. Pour the melted Copha over the dry ingredients and fruit mixture. Stir well to ensure the Copha coats all components evenly, creating a sticky, cohesive mixture.
Step 5: Shape the Mini Bites
Press 1 heaped tablespoon of mixture into each muffin hole. Flatten the tops gently with the back of a spoon. Refrigerate for 1 hour or until firm.
Step 6: Assemble the Wreath
Remove the mini bites from the tins and arrange them on a serving platter in the shape of a wreath.
Step 7: Decorate with Whipped Cream and Fruits
Whip the thickened cream to stiff peaks and transfer it to a piping bag fitted with a 2cm nozzle. Pipe the cream onto each mini bite and decorate with freeze-dried strawberries. Surround the wreath with fresh berries and cherries for a colorful, festive presentation.
Serving Suggestions
This White Christmas Wreath is perfect as a centerpiece dessert or as individual bite-sized treats for a holiday party.
- Serve alongside hot chocolate, coffee, or mulled wine.
- Pair with other festive treats like candy canes, chocolates, or Christmas lollies for a full holiday spread.
- Use as a fun family activity, letting kids help pipe cream and arrange fruit for decorating.
Storage Tips
- Store un-decorated mini bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
- Decorate just before serving to keep whipped cream fresh and maintain visual appeal.
- Avoid freezing, as whipped cream and fruit toppings may not hold their texture.
Tips for the Perfect White Christmas Wreath
- Toast almonds and coconut flakes to enhance flavor and texture.
- Press the mixture firmly into muffin tins to prevent crumbling.
- Melt Copha gently to avoid burning or graininess.
- Arrange decorations carefully for maximum visual impact; use bright, contrasting colors like red cherries and strawberries.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Not letting the Copha cool slightly before mixing can melt fruit and cause uneven texture.
- Skipping refrigeration can prevent the bites from setting properly.
- Overfilling muffin tins can make it difficult to remove bites cleanly.
Variations
- Nut-Free Version: Replace almonds with extra coconut or seeds.
- Chocolate Variation: Add small chocolate chips to the mixture for a chocolaty twist.
- Mini Wreaths: Create smaller individual wreaths for party favors or gift boxes.
- Different Fruits: Use dried cranberries, apricots, or mixed berries for variety.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! The mini bites can be prepared 3–4 days in advance and stored in the fridge un-decorated. Decorate just before serving.
Can I replace brandy with something non-alcoholic?
Yes, apple juice or cooled brewed tea works perfectly.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, ensure the Rice Bubbles or puffed rice cereal you use is certified gluten-free.
How long does the decorated wreath last?
Once decorated with whipped cream, it’s best enjoyed within a few hours for optimal texture and freshness.
