Save A festive assortment of cookies inspired by Santas reindeer—perfect for holiday gatherings, featuring classic flavors and whimsical decorations.
This recipe has been a holiday favorite in our family, bringing joy and festive spirit to every gathering.
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 23 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 1012 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 These cookies always bring smiles to family gatherings, sparking festive memories and traditions.
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
Save Enjoy making these delightful reindeer cookies that will light up your holiday season.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I achieve the best cookie texture?
Chill the dough for at least an hour before rolling to ensure the cookies hold their shape and bake to a crisp, tender texture.
- → What is the best way to create the reindeer decorations?
Use brown-tinted icing for the face, red candies for noses, black candies for eyes, and attach mini pretzels as antlers using icing.
- → Can I make a chocolate version?
Add cocoa powder to part of the dough to create chocolate-flavored cookies for variety on the platter.
- → How long should the cookies cool before decorating?
Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack to prevent melting of the icing and decorations.
- → What tools are needed for shaping cookies?
A cookie cutter or a glass can be used to cut dough into round or oval shapes resembling reindeer faces.