Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies

Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies are an adorable and festive holiday treat that combines the classic flavor of peanut butter with a whimsical reindeer design. These cookies are easy to make and decorate, making them perfect for baking with kids or for spreading holiday cheer at parties and gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Whimsical Design: The reindeer decorations are guaranteed to bring smiles.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and easy to whip up.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun and interactive recipe for little helpers.
• Customizable: Use your favorite decorations to make each reindeer unique.
• Perfect for Gifting: These cookies are festive and giftable for the holiday season.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Egg
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Mini pretzels (for antlers)
• Chocolate chips (for eyes)
• Red or brown candy-coated chocolates (for noses)

Directions

Make the Cookie Dough:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and softened butter until creamy. Add the egg and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Shape and Bake:

4. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
5. Flatten Slightly: Use your palm or the bottom of a glass to gently flatten each ball.
6. Bake: Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cookies cool for 2–3 minutes on the baking sheet.

Decorate:

7. Add Reindeer Features: While the cookies are still warm:
   • Press two mini pretzels into the top for antlers.
   • Add two chocolate chips for eyes.
   • Press a red or brown candy-coated chocolate in the center for the nose.
8. Cool Completely: Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or a nut-free spread.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Different Antlers: Use pretzel sticks or candy canes for unique antler shapes.
• Colorful Noses: Use a variety of candy colors to create a reindeer family.
• Chocolate Dough: Add cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate-peanut butter flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing Dough: Freeze cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Thaw slightly before baking.
• Freezing Cookies: Freeze fully baked cookies in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.

FAQs

1. Can I use chunky peanut butter?

Yes, chunky peanut butter adds a bit of texture to the cookies.

2. How do I keep the pretzels from falling off?

Press them firmly into the warm cookies, or use a small dab of melted chocolate once the cookies have cooled.

3. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure you have enough baking sheets and space to accommodate the extra cookies.

4. Can I use pre-made cookie dough?

Yes, you can use store-bought peanut butter cookie dough and decorate as directed.

5. How do I ensure the cookies don’t spread too much?

Chill the dough for 15–20 minutes before baking.

6. What if I don’t have candy-coated chocolates?

Use small red or brown gumdrops, or pipe noses with red frosting.

7. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for longer storage.

8. Can I skip the decoration?

Yes, these peanut butter cookies are delicious on their own if you prefer a simpler version.

9. What if my cookies crack?

Slight cracking is normal and adds to their charm. If it’s excessive, ensure your dough isn’t too dry.

10. Can I use almond butter or other nut butters?

Yes, almond or cashew butter works well as a substitute for peanut butter.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With their whimsical decorations and rich, nutty flavor, these cookies are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you’re baking for a party, cookie swap, or just some festive fun, these reindeer cookies bring a dash of holiday magic to your table.

Print