How to Decorate Reindeer Cookies for Christmas 🦌🍪

Make Cute Reindeer Cookies with Nutella

Kids and adults alike will love learning how to decorate these adorable Reindeer Cookies for the Christmas season!

This recipe uses a clever and simple technique, starting with pre-packaged or homemade oatmeal cookies and decorating them with delicious Nutella, candy eyes, and a bright red nose.

The key to this simple project is using chocolate hazelnut spread to pipe the antlers, giving Rudolph a fun, professional look that is easy to achieve.

These cookies are perfect for a festive family activity, a school party, or adding a charming touch to your holiday dessert platter.

Get ready to create the cutest (and tastiest!) reindeer treats around!

Choosing Your Cookie and Antler Spread 🌰

The foundation of the cookie is important, but the key to success lies in the creamy spread used for the antlers.

Cookie Base Recommendations

Oatmeal Cookies: These are highly recommended because their texture naturally resembles a reindeer’s face, adding to the charm.
Store-Bought vs. Homemade: This recipe is extra easy if you start with pre-packaged oatmeal cookies, but homemade cookies (like gingerbread or sugar cookies) also work well.
Note: Avoid lumpy cookies, like those with raisins, as they can make the piping process more difficult.

Piping with Nutella

The Best Spread: Nutella chocolate hazelnut spread is recommended because its creamy consistency is ideal for piping through a narrow round tip without clogging.
Practice Makes Perfect: If you are new to piping, take a moment to test out the piping bag on a piece of parchment paper first. This helps you get a feel for the pressure needed to create smooth, delicate antler shapes. If you make a mistake on the cookie, simply wipe the Nutella off and try again! 👍

Rudolph’s Finishing Touches 🔴👀

The eyes and nose are what bring these reindeer to life, and the same Nutella used for the antlers acts as the perfect edible adhesive.

Candy Choices

The Red Nose: The preferred choice for Rudolph’s bright nose is a red peanut M&M candy for its size and color, but any small red candy, such as a Red Hot or a plain red M&M, works well.
The Eyes: Candy eyes are essential for giving your reindeer a friendly, cartoonish expression.

Storing Decorated Cookies

To keep your reindeer looking their best after decorating:

First, let the decorated cookies air dry for a little while so the Nutella antlers and “glue” can set slightly.
Then, store them carefully in an airtight container or on a plate covered with plastic wrap, being mindful not to bump the delicate antlers or nose.