Pin this A festive assortment of cookies inspired by Santas reindeer—perfect for holiday gatherings, featuring classic flavors and whimsical decorations.
This recipe brings back cherished holiday memories and is always a favorite at family parties.
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 this These cookies always spark joy and festive spirit during our family holiday celebrations.
Notes
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.
Pin this This cookie platter is sure to be a highlight of your holiday festivities and bring smiles all around.
Recipe FAQs
- → What dough ingredients ensure soft texture?
Combining all-purpose flour with butter and sugar, then incorporating egg and extracts helps create a tender, soft texture in the dough.
- → How do I achieve even baking for cookies?
Chilling the dough before rolling and spacing cookies an inch apart on parchment-lined sheets helps achieve even baking and golden edges.
- → What decorations enhance the reindeer faces?
Using candy-coated chocolates for eyes and noses, mini pretzels for antlers, and tinted icing adds playful, recognizable reindeer features.
- → Can the dough be flavored differently?
Adding cocoa powder to a portion of the dough creates a chocolate variant, offering tasty diversity to the assortment.
- → What tools aid in shaping the cookies?
Rolling pins and oval or round cookie cutters (or glasses) help shape consistent cookie faces for decoration.
- → How long should the dough chill before baking?
Refrigerating the dough for at least an hour firms it, making it easier to roll and shape while preventing spreading during baking.