Save to Pinterest A festive assortment of cookies inspired by Santas reindeer—perfect for holiday gatherings, featuring classic flavors and whimsical decorations.
This recipe captures the holiday spirit with cute and festive treats that are fun to make and share.
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 to Pinterest These cookies always bring smiles at our family holiday parties especially when the kids decorate their own.
Notes
For variety add cocoa powder to a portion of the dough for chocolate-flavored reindeer. Use chocolate chips or edible black pearls for eyes as an alternative. Great to serve with hot cocoa or spiced cider.
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.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy the festive spirit with these delightful cookies that are as fun to make as they are to eat.
Recipe FAQs
- → What ingredients give the cookies their classic flavor?
The combination of unsalted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a hint of almond extract creates the signature classic flavor.
- → How do I achieve the delicate texture of these cookies?
Chilling the dough for at least an hour before baking helps the cookies hold their shape and results in a tender, delicate texture.
- → What can I use for decorating the reindeer faces?
Brown-tinted icing is spread to resemble fur, while candy-coated chocolates are used for eyes and noses, and mini pretzels serve as antlers. Sprinkles and edible glitter add festive touches.
- → Can I make a chocolate variation?
Yes, adding cocoa powder to part of the dough creates a chocolate-flavored version that pairs well with the decorations.
- → What tools are essential for creating these cookies?
You'll need mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring tools, a rolling pin, cookie cutters or a glass for shapes, baking sheets, parchment paper, and a wire rack for cooling.