Nothing says holiday fun like festive treats that bring smiles to every face. Our Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies are the perfect blend of crunchy peanut butter goodness and adorable holiday cheer. These cookies are quick to make and a delightful way to add some whimsy to your seasonal spread.
We love how simple ingredients come together to create a playful and tasty snack that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or just want to add some joy to your cookie platter, these reindeer cookies are sure to impress. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that turns classic Nutter Butter cookies into charming reindeer ready to brighten up your celebrations.
Ingredients
To create our festive Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies, we gather simple yet essential ingredients for both the cookie base and charming decorations. Each element plays a key role in transforming classic cookies into delightful holiday treats.
Cookie Base Ingredients
- 24 Nutter Butter cookies (classic peanut butter sandwich cookies)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (smooth texture for easy spreading)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar (adds sweetness and blendability)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (enhances flavor depth)
Decoration Ingredients
- 24 small pretzel twists (reindeer antlers)
- 48 mini chocolate chips (two eyes per cookie)
- 24 red candies (such as red M&M’s or red hots for the noses)
- 1 cup white frosting (use as edible glue to attach decorations)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Nutter Butter cookies | 24 cookies | Cookie base |
| Creamy peanut butter | 1 cup | Binding and flavor |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup, softened | Creaminess |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup | Sweetness |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Flavor enhancement |
| Small pretzel twists | 24 pieces | Antlers decoration |
| Mini chocolate chips | 48 pieces | Eyes |
| Red candies | 24 pieces | Rudolph noses |
| White frosting | 1 cup | Edible glue for decorations |
With these ingredients ready, we are set to assemble our charming Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies that are sure to spark joy and holiday cheer.
Equipment Needed
To create our festive Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies, we need to gather a few essential tools that will make the assembly process smooth and enjoyable. Here is the list of equipment that helps us put together these whimsical cookies efficiently:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | To blend peanut butter, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla into the cookie filling. |
| Hand Mixer or Spoon | To thoroughly mix the filling ingredients until creamy. |
| Small Spatula or Butter Knife | To spread the filling evenly inside the Nutter Butter cookies. |
| Piping Bag or Zip-Top Bag | For applying white frosting precisely to attach pretzels, candies, and chocolate chips. |
| Baking Sheet or Large Plate | To arrange and assemble cookies for easy decoration and setting. |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | To accurately portion peanut butter, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla. |
We recommend using a small piping bag for frosting application since it gives us control for neat decorative touches like fixing the tiny pretzel antlers and candies. If a piping bag is unavailable, cutting the tip of a zip-top plastic bag works equally well.
Having these tools ready ensures that our Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies Recipe comes together quickly with minimal mess. They support each step—mixing, spreading, and decorating—helping us achieve that charming reindeer look every time.
Instructions
Let’s come together to create Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies with clear and simple steps. Follow along for perfect festive treats every time.
Prep
- Gather all ingredients and tools listed earlier on a clean workspace.
- Use a mixing bowl to combine creamy peanut butter, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Mix thoroughly with a hand mixer or sturdy spoon until the filling is smooth and creamy.
- Prepare a piping bag or a zip-top bag by filling it with the creamy peanut butter mixture. Snip one corner for controlled frosting application.
- Line a baking sheet or large plate with parchment or wax paper to hold assembled cookies during decoration.
Baking the Cookies
Note: We do not bake the Nutter Butter cookies themselves since they come pre-baked. Our focus is on assembly and decoration.
- Place the 24 Nutter Butter cookies flat on the lined baking sheet or plate.
- For each cookie, use the piping bag to pipe a generous amount of the peanut butter filling onto the flat side of one cookie half.
- Gently press another cookie half on top to create a sandwich with creamy filling inside.
Cooling
- Once all cookie sandwiches are assembled, place them in the refrigerator.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to firm up and hold the cookie halves together.
- This step ensures the cookies do not fall apart when handling the next decorating steps.
| Step | Time | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing filling | 3-5 minutes | Create smooth peanut butter cream |
| Assembly | 10-15 minutes | Form sandwich cookie base |
| Cooling | 30 minutes | Firm up filling for stability |
Decorating the Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies
Now that our Nutter Butter cookie sandwiches are chilled and firm, it’s time to bring them to life with festive decorations. Let’s jump into the step-by-step process of Decorating the Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies to make them truly holiday-ready.
Preparing the Icing
To secure the decorations in place and add a little festive flair, we start by preparing a smooth, sturdy icing.
- In a small bowl, combine 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened), and 1-2 teaspoons milk, adjusting the milk to reach a thick but pipeable consistency.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for flavor.
- Mix thoroughly with a small spatula or spoon until the icing is smooth and holds its shape.
- Transfer the icing into a piping bag or a zip-top bag, cutting a small hole in the corner for precise application.
Tip: Keep the icing thick enough to hold pretzels and candies, but soft enough to pipe easily.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Powdered Sugar | 1 cup |
| Unsalted Butter | 2 tbsp (softened) |
| Milk | 1-2 tsp |
| Vanilla Extract | 1/2 tsp |
Applying the Antlers and Eyes
The signature reindeer antlers and eyes bring character and charm to each cookie.
- Pipe a small dot of icing onto the top edges of each cookie to attach the small pretzel twists as antlers. Press gently but firmly to secure.
- Next, place two mini chocolate chips below the antlers as the reindeer’s eyes.
- Use a tiny dab of icing under each chocolate chip to ensure they stay put.
Remember: Work quickly but carefully. The icing will start to harden after a few minutes, so apply decorations efficiently.
Adding the Red Nose
The final touch completes our festive reindeer faces.
- Use the icing to attach a red candy (such as an M&M or red mini candy) centered just below the eyes, forming the classic Rudolph nose.
- Press lightly to secure the candy to the cookie in place.
- Allow all cookies to rest on a baking sheet or plate for at least 15 minutes to let the icing set completely.
“A bright red nose is what makes these cookies instantly recognizable and festive!”
By following these steps carefully, we create adorable and sturdy Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies that will bring joy and smiles to any holiday gathering.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To ensure our Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies stay fresh and festive, proper make-ahead and storage techniques are essential. Here’s how we can keep our cookies tasting delightful and looking charming for days to come:
Make-Ahead Preparation
- We can assemble the cookie sandwiches up to 24 hours in advance. After filling the cookies with the peanut butter mixture, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- For best results, it’s ideal to decorate the cookies on the day of serving. This prevents the decorations from softening or sliding off. If needed, prepared piping icing can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before use.
- We recommend chilling the filled cookies at least 30 minutes prior to decorating to ensure the filling is firm and easy to work with.
Storage Guidelines
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days | Keep in an airtight container away from heat. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Store in airtight container; bring to room temp before serving. |
| Freezer (Unfrosted) | Up to 1 month | Freeze sandwiches without decorations; thaw fully before decorating. |
| Freezer (Decorated) | Not Recommended | Decorations may soften and lose shape after freezing. |
- We always store our cookies in an airtight container to prevent drying out and to protect the delicate decorations.
- If refrigeration is chosen, we allow cookies to reach room temperature before serving to restore optimal texture and flavor.
Handling Tips
- During transport or gift-giving, layering cookies with parchment paper between them helps keep decorations intact.
- Avoid exposure to moisture or humidity to maintain crisp pretzel antlers and firm candy noses.
“Storing cookies properly maximizes the life and enjoyment of our whimsical Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies!“
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, our festive cookies remain a showstopper both in appearance and taste, perfect for holiday celebrations or delightful gifting.
Conclusion
These Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies bring a playful touch to any holiday gathering. With simple ingredients and easy assembly, they’re a festive treat that anyone can enjoy making and sharing.
Whether for a party, gift, or just a fun family activity, these cookies add warmth and cheer to the season. We’re confident they’ll become a favorite holiday tradition in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies?
Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies are festive treats made by decorating classic Nutter Butter cookies with pretzel antlers, mini chocolate chips for eyes, and red candy noses, all held together with a simple frosting. They’re perfect for holiday parties and gift-giving.
Do I need to bake the Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies?
No baking is required. Nutter Butter cookies come pre-baked, so you just need to assemble and decorate them using the filling and frosting.
What ingredients are needed to make these cookies?
You’ll need 24 Nutter Butter cookies, creamy peanut butter, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, small pretzel twists, mini chocolate chips, red candies, and white frosting.
What tools do I need to prepare these cookies?
Essential tools include a mixing bowl, hand mixer or spoon, small spatula or butter knife, piping bag or zip-top bag, baking sheet or plate, and measuring cups and spoons.
How long does it take to make Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies?
Preparation, assembly, and chilling typically take around 30-45 minutes. Decorating and setting the cookies add approximately 15 minutes more.
Can I prepare these cookies ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble the cookie sandwiches up to 24 hours in advance. Decorate them on the day of serving for best results.
How should I store the cookies after making them?
Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, refrigerate up to 1 week, or freeze un-frosted cookies for up to 1 month to maintain freshness.
How do I keep the decorations from falling off?
Use the smooth icing made from powdered sugar, butter, milk, and vanilla to firmly attach pretzels, chocolate chips, and red candies. Let the cookies set for 15 minutes to secure decorations.
Can kids help in making these cookies?
Absolutely! The assembly and decorating steps are simple and fun, making this a great holiday activity for kids with adult supervision.
Are these cookies allergy-friendly?
These cookies contain peanut butter and wheat flour, so they are not suitable for individuals with peanut or gluten allergies.