Name: Easy Reindeer Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 package easy sugar cookie mix (or use one package break and bake squares); 1 tub vanilla frosting (or use homemade); 1 Red M&Ms; 1 Chocolate Covered Pretzels; Eyeball candies or chocolate chips; ½ cup chocolate chips (or use frosting); Candy-coated sunflower seeds; Christmas sprinkles or mini M&Ms

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something truly magical about baking during the holiday season, especially when it comes to making Easy Reindeer Cookies. I remember the first time I attempted these fun and festive treats with my kids. Their eyes lit up as we gathered around the kitchen, ready to create our own little reindeer army. Each cookie became a canvas for creativity, adorned with colorful candies and frosting. It’s a memory I cherish, the laughter and joy filling the air as we crafted our cookie masterpieces. The process is as enjoyable as the end result, and the taste? Absolutely delightful!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Baking Sheet

What sets Easy Reindeer Cookies apart from other holiday cookies is their playful design and the joy they bring to both young and old. These cookies aren’t just delicious; they’re a celebration of creativity and fun. The kids and I would spend hours decorating, and each cookie would turn out uniquely special. This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, school parties, or simply to enjoy at home while sipping hot cocoa by the fire.

As we dive into this recipe, remember that cooking is about fun and the memories we create along the way. So, gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some Easy Reindeer Cookies that are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces!

With a simple base of sugar cookies, delightful frosting, and an array of fun toppings, these cookies are not only easy to make but also a fantastic way to unleash your imagination. Let’s get started!

What Makes This Easy Reindeer Cookies Special

1. A Fun Family Activity

Making Easy Reindeer Cookies is more than just baking; it’s a wonderful way to bond with family. Whether it’s gathering your kids or inviting friends over, the kitchen becomes a hub of laughter and creativity. Everyone gets to participate in decorating, making each cookie unique.

2. Perfect for Celebrations

These cookies are a hit at holiday parties! Their adorable design makes them crowd-pleasers, and they’re perfect for sharing. Imagine your guests’ delight when they see a plate of these festive treats!

3. Customizable Designs

The beauty of Easy Reindeer Cookies is in their versatility. You can decorate them however you like! Use different candies for noses and eyes or even create your own designs. The possibilities are endless!

4. Simple Ingredients

This recipe calls for basic ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. It’s simple and doesn’t require any special skills, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.

5. Delicious Taste

Who doesn’t love a classic sugar cookie? The sweet, buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with toppings, ensuring that these cookies are as tasty as they are cute.

6. Keepsake Memories

Each batch of cookies becomes a sweet memory. The joy of baking and decorating together creates moments that you’ll cherish for years to come, captured in every delicious bite.

Ingredients Required for Easy Reindeer Cookies

Every great recipe begins with quality ingredients, and Easy Reindeer Cookies is no exception. The ingredients work together harmoniously to create a tasty and festive treat. Key players include easy sugar cookie mix and delightful toppings that bring these cookies to life. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need!

1 package easy sugar cookie mix (or use one package break and bake squares): This is the base of our cookies, offering a sweet and buttery flavor that everyone loves.
1 tub vanilla frosting (or use homemade): This creamy frosting not only adds sweetness but also acts as glue for our decorations.
Red M&Ms: These are used for the reindeer’s nose, adding a pop of color and a sweet bite.
Chocolate Covered Pretzels: Perfect for antlers, these add a delightful crunch along with a chocolatey flavor.
Eyeball candies or chocolate chips: These can be used for the eyes, giving your reindeer personality!
½ cup chocolate chips: Used for various decorations or even melted to create fun designs.
Candy-coated sunflower seeds: These colorful candies add a festive touch and can be used for decorating.
Christmas sprinkles or mini M&Ms: These are the finishing touch to make your cookies extra special.

How to Cook Easy Reindeer Cookies

Ready to bring your reindeer cookies to life? The process is straightforward and enjoyable. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delightful cookies ready for decorating. Let’s dive into the fun!

Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the cookie mix packaging. Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or using a non-stick spray. This ensures your cookies will come off easily once baked.
Prepare the easy sugar cookie mix according to the package instructions. If using break and bake squares, simply separate the squares and place them on the prepared cookie sheet. Make sure to leave some space in between each cookie as they will spread while baking.
Bake the cookies in the oven for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven. The center should look slightly undercooked; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely; this step is crucial for decorating.
Prepare your decorations by setting out the vanilla frosting, Red M&Ms, chocolate covered pretzels, and other toppings. You can use a knife or spatula to spread frosting onto each cookie.
To create Rudolph, take a cooled cookie and use the frosting to attach two chocolate covered pretzels for antlers. Place a Red M&M at the center for the nose and two candies for the eyes. Get creative—the more personality, the better!
For Christmas Light cookies, frost the cookie and melt some chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds. Once melted, you can pipe it onto the cookie in a fun design to resemble a light strand. Use candy-coated sunflower seeds as lights along the strand.
If you want to make cookie cups, spray a mini muffin pan with non-stick spray. Place a break-and-bake square (or about 1 tablespoon of dough) into each cavity, and bake as directed. Allow them to cool before frosting and decorating.
Finally, get all your decorated cookies ready for a festive display on a platter. Celebrate your hard work and enjoy your Easy Reindeer Cookies with family and friends!

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t rush: Make sure to let the cookies cool completely before decorating. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures your decorations stay in place.
Experiment with flavors: You can add different extracts to your frosting or cookie dough for a unique twist.
Watch your baking times: Every oven is different. Check your cookies a minute or two before the suggested time to avoid over-baking.
Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your baking ingredients are fresh for the best flavor and texture. Outdated ingredients can affect the outcome.

Helpful Hints

Here are some helpful hints to ensure your baking experience with Easy Reindeer Cookies goes smoothly. From storage tips to serving suggestions, these tips will enhance your cookie-making adventure!

Storage: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last for about a week.
Freezing: You can freeze the undecorated cookies for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with warm beverages like hot cocoa or spiced apple cider, making them perfect for holiday gatherings.
Decorate in stages: If you’re making a large batch, consider frosting some cookies and decorating others later to keep them fresh.
Get creative: Encourage everyone to decorate their cookies differently. It’s a fun way to express creativity!

What to Serve Alongside Easy Reindeer Cookies

When it comes to serving Easy Reindeer Cookies, think about pairing them with delightful accompaniments that enhance the festive spirit. Here are some ideas:

Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of rich hot cocoa is the perfect complement. You can even add whipped cream or marshmallows on top for extra indulgence.
Milk: The classic pairing—serve your cookies with a glass of cold milk for a simple yet satisfying treat.
Holiday Fruit Punch: Combine fruit juices and soda for a refreshing drink that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert, serve cookies alongside vanilla or peppermint ice cream.
Seasonal Cheeseboard: Include a cheeseboard with sweet and savory items to provide variety during your holiday gatherings.
Gift Packaging: These cookies make delightful gifts! Package them in decorative boxes or bags to share with friends and neighbors.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare and bake the cookies a few days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to save time, you can frost them a day before your event. Just ensure they are completely cooled before frosting to prevent the icing from melting.

No problem! If you can’t find Red M&Ms, you can use any red candy like cherry jellybeans or even red gumdrops. Alternatively, you could also use small pieces of red fruit or dried cranberries to create that festive look. Just be creative!

To keep your Easy Reindeer Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their softness and flavor. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the undecorated cookies in a well-sealed container for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw them completely before decorating.

Absolutely! One of the most enjoyable aspects of making Easy Reindeer Cookies is the ability to customize them. You can choose different candies for the eyes, noses, and decorations. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand or your favorite candies to create your signature look!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Easy Reindeer Cookies are not just a treat; they’re a joyful holiday experience that brings friends and family together. The fun of decorating and the delicious flavor of these cookies make them a must-try during festive gatherings. I encourage you to gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and enjoy the sweet smiles that come with every bite!