Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies (Easy Christmas Cookie Cups)

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When it comes to easy Christmas treat idea for kids, these peanut butter reindeer cookies are the best! They’re about to become your new holiday favorite. Made with Reese’s peanut butter cups, pretzels, and Reese’s cookie dough, this simple recipe turns classic cookie cups into festive reindeer treats that are perfect for parties, classroom celebrations, and holiday baking days with kids. They’re quick to make, adorable to serve, and always disappear fast at the Christmas party food table!

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These peanut butter reindeer cookies are one of the best Christmas cookie cup ideas when you want something festive without spending hours in the kitchen. Using store-bought dough keeps things simple, while the decorations make them feel extra special and holiday-ready.

They start with store-bought Reese’s cookie dough, then transform into the sweetest Christmas party food once decorated with pretzel antlers and a candy face!

Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies

This recipe is a go-to during the holidays because it checks all the boxes for busy families. It’s an easy and simple Christmas cookie recipe that’s perfect for kids to help decorate, making it both a fun activity and a delicious treat. The combination of soft peanut butter cookie cups and creamy Reese’s peanut butter cups makes these cookies irresistible, while the reindeer design makes them a standout party food idea for December gatherings.

This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients to keep prep stress-free while still delivering big holiday fun. Each ingredient plays a role in creating the perfect peanut butter reindeer cookie cup.

• Peanut butter cookie dough – A shortcut that makes this recipe fast and foolproof; Reese’s cookie dough works especially well for extra peanut butter flavor.
• Mini Reese’s peanut butter cups – These melt perfectly into the center of the cookie cups and add rich chocolate-peanut butter flavor.
• Mini pretzels – Broken in half to create adorable reindeer antlers with a salty crunch.
• Red M&Ms – The classic Rudolph-style nose that brings each reindeer to life.
• Candy eyes – Essential for giving your reindeer cookies their cute, playful expression.

How to Make Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies

These peanut butter reindeer cookies come together quickly, making them ideal for holiday baking with kids. Be sure to decorate while the cookies are still warm for the best results.

Start by preheating your oven and generously greasing a mini muffin pan to prevent sticking. Press a piece of peanut butter cookie dough into each muffin cup, shaping it gently so it fills the bottom evenly. Bake until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft.

As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, press a mini Reese’s peanut butter cup into the center of each cookie cup. Let the cookies rest briefly so the chocolate softens, which helps the decorations stick.

While the chocolate is still slightly soft but not fully melted, carefully add two candy eyes and a red M&M for the nose.

Then carefully insert the pretzel halves at the top to form antlers. Allow the cookies to cool completely so the chocolate firms up before removing them from the pan.

If the cookies stick to the pan while you’re removing them, try using a thin, flat spatula. Run the spatula around the edges of the cookies to help loosen them from the pan.

Reindeer Cookie Recipe Ideas

These peanut butter reindeer cookies are the perfect mix of cute, fun, and easy—everything you want in a Christmas cookie recipe for kids. Whether you’re baking for a classroom party, holiday gathering, or just a cozy night at home, this simple cookie cup recipe delivers. Save this one—it’s a holiday favorite you’ll want to make every year.

And since this recipe is so easy to customize, it’s perfect for using what you already have on hand or switching things up for different preferences.

• Swap the peanut butter cups for mini chocolate cups or caramel-filled chocolates, like Rolos
• Use brown M&Ms or chocolate candies for a different reindeer nose look
• Try chocolate cookie dough instead of peanut butter for a fun twist
• Add holiday sprinkles around the edges for extra Christmas flair

FAQs About Reindeer Peanut Butter Cookies

Are peanut butter reindeer cookies gluten free?

The premade Reese’s peanut butter cookie dough is not gluten free. But you can use my gluten free peanut butter cookie cups recipe, then add gluten free pretzel antlers, a red M&M nose, and gluten free candy eyes!

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! These cookie cups are a great make-ahead Christmas treat. Prepare them a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container.

How do I store or reheat them?

These cookies don’t need reheating. Store them at room temperature or in the refrigerator to keep the chocolate firm. They’ll stay good for up to seven days in the fridge.

Can I use a different type of dough?

Absolutely. While Reese’s cookie dough adds extra flavor, other peanut butter cookie doughs work well too. You can even make your own peanut butter cookie dough from scratch, if you want!

How to Store Reindeer Cookies

Store your peanut butter reindeer cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If stacking the cookies, place parchment paper between layers to protect the decorations.

More Easy Recipe Ideas:

Cinnamon Roll Reindeer Christmas Breakfast

Peanut Butter Christmas Dream Bars

Adorable Gluten Free Reindeer Cookies

Peanut Butter Ritz Cracker Cookies