Reindeer Linzer Cookies

Reindeer Linzer Cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season—and, honestly, any day of the year! These adorable cookie sandwiches, filled with rich Nutella and decorated to resemble cheerful reindeer, add a whimsical touch to your baking. Picture yourself in the kitchen, the sweet aroma of baking cookies wafting through the air, while you’re creating these charming treats. Whether you’re surprising your kids, impressing your friends, or simply indulging in some sweet nostalgia, these cookies will surely spread joy. Trust me, it’s not just about the taste; it’s about the smiles you’ll bring to your loved ones’ faces when they see and, of course, taste these Reindeer Linzer Cookies!

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Why This Recipe Works

This Reindeer Linzer Cookies recipe combines the delightful flavor of sugar cookies and the rich taste of hazelnuts, creating a deliciously unique treat. The Nutella filling adds a creamy surprise that makes these cookies irresistible for both kids and adults alike. Plus, the seamless blend of sweet flavors and festive shapes makes your baking experience a joyful one.

Why You’ll Love This Reindeer Linzer Cookies

Imagine the joy on your loved ones’ faces as they bite into these adorable reindeer cookies, filled with Nutella and decorated with festive flair. Perfect for holiday gatherings or sweet treats year-round, these cookies not only taste amazing but also bring a fun, whimsical element to your baking. The combination of flavors, textures, and playful designs makes them a standout treat!

Ingredients

• 1 (17.5 ounce) package sugar cookie mix
• 1/2 cup finely ground hazelnuts
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup Nutella
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 15 red candies for noses
• 30 black nonpareils for eyes
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate, melted

Preparing the Dough for Reindeer Linzer Cookies

Mix Sugar Cookie Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sugar cookie mix with finely ground hazelnuts. This mixture resembles the traditional sugar cookie base but adds a rich, nutty flavor that makes it distinctly special.

Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, add in the large egg, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until a smooth dough forms. Don’t rush this; a consistent blend is crucial for a great texture.

Chill the Dough

Once mixed, divide the dough into two halves. Flatten them into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps maintain the cookie’s shape while baking, which is super important for our reindeer faces!

Baking the Reindeer Linzer Cookies

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This makes for an easy cleanup and helps the cookies bake evenly.

Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thick. Be gentle; you want it nice and even.

Cut Out the Cookies

Use a 2 1/2-inch round cutter to cut out cookies. Remember to reroll scraps to maximize the dough; no cookie left behind!

Bake the Cookies

Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; they can go from perfect to overbaked swiftly.

Assembling the Reindeer Linzer Cookies

Cut Out Face Shapes

When the cookies are warm, use a 1 1/2-inch round cutter (or the wide side of a piping tip) to cut a hole in the lower third of half the cookies for the face cutouts. This step adds the signature reindeer look!

Cool the Cookies

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling is crucial to ensure they hold up while being decorated.

Decorate the Face Cookies

Dust the top face cookies with powdered sugar to create a snowy effect. On the bottom cookies, spread a generous layer of Nutella before gently pressing a face cookie on top to form a sandwich. The Nutella acts like glue and, of course, tastes amazing!

Add Finishing Touches

Using a toothpick, trace antlers into the powdered sugar. Then, pipe melted dark chocolate over the traced lines. Attach nonpareils for eyes and red candies for noses to the exposed Nutella. Each cookie becomes a tiny masterpiece!

Tips for Success

• Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing; it makes a difference.
• Refrigerate the dough sufficiently to maintain its shape when baking. This is your secret weapon!
• Experiment with different fillings or decorations to make these cookies truly yours.

Variations

Consider substituting Nutella with strawberry jam or peanut butter for different flavor profiles. You can also use chocolate sugar cookie mix instead of the regular sugar cookie mix for a richer taste. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions

These cookies shine at holiday parties, school functions, or simply as a delightful everyday treat. Pair them with a glass of milk, hot cocoa, or festive eggnog for an indulgent experience. They’re just perfect for making simple moments feel special.

Storage Tips

Store leftover Reindeer Linzer Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies without the decoration. Trust me; they’ll taste just as delicious when you’re ready to enjoy them again!

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Easy peasy!

2. Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?
Absolutely! Substitute with finely ground almonds or walnuts for a different flavor. Get creative!

3. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading when baking?
Chilling the dough is key; it helps the cookies maintain their shape beautifully.

4. Is there a gluten-free version of these cookies?
Yes, use a gluten-free sugar cookie mix to make these cookies gluten-free. Everyone deserves a treat!

5. Can I use store-bought frosting instead of Nutella?
Yes, store-bought frosting can work too for filling—an easy alternative if you’re in a pinch!

Creating fun and festive treats like Reindeer Linzer Cookies adds a little magic to your baking routine. By combining flavors and festive designs, not just cookies but memories form too! Enjoy the process, share the joy, and savor every bite together with loved ones!

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