Save A festive assortment of cookies inspired by Santas reindeer—perfect for holiday gatherings, featuring classic flavors and whimsical decorations.
This cookie platter has become a holiday tradition in our family, bringing smiles and sweet memories together.
Ingredients
- For Sugar Cookie Dough: 2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter, room temperature, 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- For Decorating: 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar, 1–2 tablespoons milk, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, Brown gel food coloring, Red and black candy-coated chocolates (for noses and eyes), Mini pretzels (for antlers), Sprinkles, edible glitter (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Step 3:
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter mixture beat until combined.
- Step 4:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing just until a dough forms.
- Step 5:
- Divide dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Step 6:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 7:
- Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into oval or round shapes (for reindeer faces) using a cookie cutter or glass.
- Step 8:
- Place cookies 1 inch apart on prepared sheets. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are just golden. Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Step 9:
- Make the icing: Mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla until smooth and pourable. Tint part of the icing brown.
- Step 10:
- Decorate cooled cookies: Spread brown icing over each cookie for the reindeers face. Use red candies for noses, black candies for eyes, and mini pretzels for antlers (attach with icing). Add sprinkles or glitter if desired. Allow icing to set before serving.
Save Sharing these cookies with family while sipping hot cocoa has made many cherished holiday moments.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, Electric mixer, Measuring cups and spoons, Rolling pin, Cookie cutters or glass, Baking sheets, Parchment paper, Wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten), eggs, milk, nuts (if almond extract is used), soy (in some candies), and possibly peanuts (if using peanut butter candies). Always check candy and sprinkle labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 120, Total Fat: 5 g, Carbohydrates: 18 g, Protein: 1 g per cookie
Save These reindeer cookies are a delightful holiday treat that bring joy to both baking and sharing.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What ingredients create the dough base for the cookies?
The dough is made from all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla, and optional almond extract.
- → How is the reindeer face decoration achieved?
Brown-tinted icing forms the face, with red and black candy-coated chocolates used for noses and eyes, and mini pretzels serve as antlers.
- → What is the best way to roll out the dough?
Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness before cutting shapes.
- → Can the dough be flavored differently?
Yes, adding cocoa powder to part of the dough creates a chocolate variation for added variety.
- → What baking temperature and time are recommended?
Bake cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until the edges turn just golden.