Pin A festive assortment of cookies inspired by Santas reindeer—perfect for holiday gatherings, featuring classic flavors and whimsical decorations.
This festive platter always brings smiles and joy to our holiday celebrations every year.
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.
Pin Sharing these cookies warms our hearts and creates cherished family memories each holiday season.
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 (per cookie)
Calories 120 Total Fat 5 g Carbohydrates 18 g Protein 1 g
Pin Enjoy making these delightful cookies that bring festive cheer and tasty smiles to all.
Recipe Q&A
- → What ingredients create the cookie dough?
The dough includes all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, with an optional almond extract for subtle flavor.
- → How is the reindeer decoration achieved?
Cooled cookies are iced with tinted powdered sugar glaze, then adorned with red and black candy-coated chocolates for noses and eyes, and mini pretzels for antlers.
- → Can I make chocolate-flavored versions?
Yes, add cocoa powder to a portion of the dough to create chocolate-flavored cookies for variety.
- → What is the ideal chilling time for the dough?
The dough should be chilled at least 1 hour to ensure easier rolling and better cookie shape retention during baking.
- → Are there alternative decorating options?
You can use chocolate chips or edible black pearls for eyes and enhance decorations with sprinkles or edible glitter.
- → What tools are recommended for preparation?
Mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups, rolling pin, cookie cutters or glass, baking sheets, parchment paper, and a wire rack are helpful for this process.