Save A festive assortment of cookies inspired by Santas reindeer—perfect for holiday gatherings, featuring classic flavors and whimsical decorations.
This recipe brings back warm holiday memories every time I prepare it with my family.
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 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 Making these cookies every year creates treasured family moments filled with laughter and sweet treats.
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.
Save These cookies bring joy to any holiday table and are sure to impress your guests.
Recipe Help
- → What dough ingredients create the base flavor?
All-purpose flour, baking powder, butter, sugar, egg, vanilla, and optional almond extract combine for a tender, buttery dough with subtle vanilla and nutty notes.
- → How long should the dough chill before baking?
Refrigerate the shaped dough discs for at least one hour to ensure proper firmness and easier handling during rolling and cutting.
- → What baking temperature and time yield optimal texture?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until edges turn golden, which ensures crisp edges and a tender center.
- → How are the reindeer faces decorated?
Brown tinted icing covers the cookie surface, with red candy noses, black candy eyes, and mini pretzel antlers attached using icing, plus optional sprinkles or edible glitter.
- → Can the cookies be varied with additional flavors?
Yes, adding cocoa powder to part of the dough creates a chocolate-flavored version, and chocolate chips or black edible pearls can replace candy eyes.