Why Make This Recipe
Reindeer cookies are a delightful treat that brings a smile to both kids and adults during the festive season. Their fun design and simple preparation make them an excellent addition to holiday gatherings or cookie exchanges. These cookies also add a touch of creativity to any party.
Not only are they visually appealing, but the combination of chocolate, pretzels, and candy creates a delicious sweet and salty flavor. Whether for family, friends, or school parties, this recipe is bound to be a hit!
Equipment Needed for Reindeer Cookies
To make reindeer cookies, you’ll need some basic kitchen equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment or wax paper
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula for stirring
- Cooling rack (optional)
What You Need to Make Reindeer Cookies
To create these fun reindeer cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 15 plain sandwich cookies (double stuffed works best)
- 1.5 cups milk chocolate chips or chocolate melting wafers
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)
- 30 mini pretzels
- 30 candy eyes
- 15 red M and Ms
How to Cook Reindeer Cookies Step by Step
First, prepare your workspace by lining a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper. This will make it easier to remove the cookies once they have set. Next, set out the bowls with mini pretzels, candy eyes, and red M and Ms for easy access.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate chips and coconut oil. This coconut oil helps give your chocolate a smooth, glossy finish. Microwave the chocolate mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Be cautious not to overheat the chocolate; it should be melted but not too hot.
Once the chocolate mixture is ready, take a sandwich cookie and dip it into the melted chocolate. Make sure to coat it well, gently tapping off any excess chocolate to avoid drips. Place the cookie on the prepared tray. While the chocolate is still wet, press two mini pretzels into the top of each cookie to create antlers. Then, add two candy eyes and finally place a red M and M on the cookie for the nose.
Allow the cookies to sit at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes, or place them in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to help the chocolate firm up faster. This step is crucial to ensure your decorations stay in place.
How to Make Reindeer Cookies
Making reindeer cookies is a fun and straightforward process. Begin by melting the chocolate chips in a microwave safe bowl, stirring in between heating sessions. Once the chocolate is ready, dip each sandwich cookie, allowing the chocolate to coat the sides and top.
After dipping, immediately add the mini pretzels to create antlers. It’s important to do this step while the chocolate is still wet, so the pretzels adhere well. With the candy eyes and red M and M ready to go, place them on as soon as the pretzels are in place.
Once all the cookies are decorated, let them cool until the chocolate sets. Patience is key here, as you want the chocolate to be firm before enjoying or packing away.
How to Serve Reindeer Cookies
Reindeer cookies can be served in many creative ways. You can arrange them on a festive platter for family and friends. These cookies also make great gifts, especially around the holidays. Simply package them in a clear cellophane bag tied with a colorful ribbon for a lovely presentation.
For kids’ parties, consider adding these cookies to a dessert table. They are visually striking and sure to be a favorite among the little ones. Plus, their bite-sized shape makes them easy for kids to pick up and enjoy.
What to Serve with Reindeer Cookies
When serving reindeer cookies, consider pairing them with milk for a classic treat. Hot cocoa is another fun option, especially during cold winter nights. For holiday gatherings, you might also offer a variety of other festive cookies or treats to create a cookie bar.
These cookies can also be great alongside a festive punch or sparkling cider. If you want a more balanced offering, include some fruit or cheese platters to provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
How to Store Reindeer Cookies
Storing reindeer cookies is quite simple. Once the chocolate has completely set, transfer the cookies into an airtight container. Be sure to place parchment paper between the layers to prevent them from sticking together.
Keep the container in a cool, dry place. If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies, especially if your kitchen is warm. Under proper storage, these cookies can last for about a week.
Tips to Make Reindeer Cookies
To ensure the best results with your reindeer cookies, follow these tips:
- Use double stuffed sandwich cookies for a thicker treat.
- Make sure your chocolate is fully melted for smooth coating.
- Work quickly when adding pretzels and candy, as chocolate can set up fast.
- Experiment with different types of candies for nose and eye options, like chocolate chips or gumdrops.
Variation
Feel free to get creative with the design of your reindeer cookies! You can use different colored candies for eyes or make different animals using the same technique. Consider adding coconut flakes for a snowy effect or using white chocolate for a different flavor. You can even try using graham crackers instead of sandwich cookies for a fun twist.
Best Time to Make Reindeer Cookies
Reindeer cookies are perfect for the holiday season, especially in December. They are great for Christmas parties, gifting, and cookie exchanges. Making them in advance also allows you to enjoy treats without the last-minute rush.
Baking them early in the month gives you time to share with friends or even to add to a cookie tray for holiday gatherings. Kids will especially love helping to decorate them during the festive season!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your reindeer cookies turn out perfectly, be mindful of these common mistakes:
- Overheating the chocolate can ruin the texture, so watch it closely while microwaving.
- Not tapping off excess chocolate can lead to messy cookies with drips.
- Forgetting to work quickly when adding decorations can result in them sliding off.
- Not storing them properly can lead to softening or melting of the chocolate.
Nutritional Notes
While reindeer cookies are a fun treat, it’s good to be mindful of portion sizes, as they can be quite rich. Each cookie features a mix of sugars from the chocolate, cream from the sandwich cookies, and salty crunch from the pretzels. Balance them with healthier snacks to enjoy during festive times.
FAQs
Q: Can I use white chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
A: Yes, white chocolate can be used as an alternative for a sweeter and creamier flavor.
Q: How can I make these cookies more festive?
A: Consider using colored candy melts and sprinkles to add even more holiday cheer to these cookies.
Q: Can I use gluten-free cookies for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just choose gluten-free sandwich cookies, and you can enjoy this recipe without gluten.
Conclusion
Reindeer cookies are a joyous treat that is easy to make and brings smiles to everyone. With a few ingredients and simple steps, these fun festive cookies can brighten up any holiday gathering. Whether you are an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to create lasting memories filled with laughter and deliciousness. So gather your ingredients, invite the family, and have fun making these delightful treats together!
