Save A festive assortment of cookies inspired by Santas reindeer—perfect for holiday gatherings, featuring classic flavors and whimsical decorations.
This is a personal favorite during the holiday season that always brings joy and smiles at family parties.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour: For Sugar Cookie Dough
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: For Sugar Cookie Dough
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: For Sugar Cookie Dough
- 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter, room temperature: For Sugar Cookie Dough
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar: For Sugar Cookie Dough
- 1 large egg: For Sugar Cookie Dough
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For Sugar Cookie Dough
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional): For Sugar Cookie Dough
- 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar: For Decorating
- 1 2 tablespoons milk: For Decorating
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: For Decorating
- Brown gel food coloring: For Decorating
- Red and black candy-coated chocolates (for noses and eyes): For Decorating
- Mini pretzels (for antlers): For Decorating
- Sprinkles, edible glitter (optional): For Decorating
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 This recipe always brings our family together to make and enjoy festive treats with lots of laughter and love.
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
Calories: 120, Total Fat: 5 g, Carbohydrates: 18 g, Protein: 1 g per cookie.
Save Enjoy these delightful festive cookies that bring charm to any holiday table and smiles all around.
Recipe Questions
- → What flavor extracts enhance these cookies?
Vanilla extract provides warmth and almond extract adds a subtle nutty note, both elevating the dough's flavor.
- → How do I achieve the reindeer look on the cookies?
Use brown tinted icing for the face, red and black candy-coated chocolates for noses and eyes, and mini pretzels as antlers.
- → Can the dough be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, the dough should be chilled for at least one hour to ensure easy shaping and a firm texture during baking.
- → Are there variations to the sugar cookie dough?
Adding cocoa powder to part of the dough creates chocolate-flavored cookies for variety.
- → What is the best way to store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and preserve the decoration's appearance.
- → What utensils are essential for making this platter?
Mixing bowls, electric mixer, rolling pin, cookie cutters, baking sheets, parchment paper, and a wire rack are recommended.