Delightful Christmas Reindeer Cookies for Festive Fun

Name: Christmas Reindeer Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 large egg; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup M&M's or chocolate chips (for eyes/buttons); 24 small twist pretzels (for antlers)

Published: November 6, 2025

by Amelia

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Christmas Reindeer Cookies are easy to make and fun for the whole family
Their delightful flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds
With their charming appearance, they bring smiles to any holiday gathering
Plus, they’re versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings and decorations

One year, I decided to bake these cookies for my office holiday party, and my coworkers practically turned into cookie monsters fighting over the last one!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of our cookie dough; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
Baking Powder: A key ingredient that helps your cookies rise perfectly without being too fluffy. For more inspiration, check out this Thick and Chewy Cookies recipe.
Unsalted Butter: Use softened butter to create that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all love.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cookies beautifully; feel free to adjust the amount based on your taste.
Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with vanilla.
Eggs: You’ll need one large egg for binding everything together nicely.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract enhances the flavor profile tremendously.
Cocoa Powder: For those chocolatey reindeer faces; use unsweetened cocoa for best results.
M&M’s or Chocolate Chips: These will be used as eyes and buttons; choose your favorite colors!
Pretzels (small twist variety): Perfect for antlers; they add that festive touch we all adore.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Christmas Reindeer Cookies

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Dough: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add in Wet Ingredients: Beat in one large egg and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should look smooth and creamy—just like a cozy blanket on a chilly day.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet ingredients until just combined; resist the urge to overmix!

Scoop & Shape Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Flatten each mound slightly so they spread nicely while baking.

Decorate & Bake Cookies: Before popping them in the oven, press M&M’s into each cookie as ‘eyes’ and ‘buttons.’ Bake for about 10-12 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft—trust me; underbaking is key here!

Add Antlers & Cool Down : After removing cookies from the oven, gently place pretzels on top as antlers while they are still warm. Let cool completely on wire racks before serving or storing.

Now you have delicious Christmas Reindeer Cookies ready to bring holiday cheer! Enjoy them during festive gatherings or simply treat yourself after a long day of holiday shopping. Grinch-themed sugar cookies Happy baking!

You Must Know

These Christmas Reindeer Cookies are not just cute; they bring joy to holiday gatherings
The delightful aroma of gingerbread fills your kitchen, creating a festive atmosphere
Perfect for cookie exchanges, they also make great edible gifts, bringing smiles all around

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing your dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately to ensure even blending. Once combined, chill the dough before rolling it out for perfectly shaped cookies.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding crushed peppermint or colored sprinkles to the icing for extra flair. You can also swap in almond extract for a unique flavor twist that will delight everyone.

Storing & Reheating

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you need to freeze them, wrap each cookie individually and place them in a freezer bag.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve the best texture, avoid overmixing your dough as it may result in tough cookies
Use fresh ingredients to enhance flavor and ensure festive fun with vibrant decorations!
Enjoy experimenting with different icing tips for unique designs

The first time I made these Christmas Reindeer Cookies, my niece squealed with delight when she saw them. savory Christmas tree appetizer Watching her decorate each cookie was pure magic!