If you’re looking for a festive, fun, and absolutely delicious treat to brighten up your holiday season, the Rudolph Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe is just the thing to add some cheer! These cookies are bursting with rich peanut butter flavor, perfectly balanced sweetness, and the cutest Rudolph decorations that make them as charming to look at as they are to eat. Whether you’re baking with kids or surprising guests at a holiday party, this recipe delivers a perfect blend of nostalgia and whimsy that’s sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Rudolph Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe uses a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a perfectly soft and flavorful cookie. Each component plays an essential role in the texture, taste, and festive look of these treats.
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky): The star ingredient that gives these cookies their rich, nutty base and moist texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds buttery richness and helps create a tender crumb.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Gives sweetness and a slight crunch to balance the peanut butter.
- 1 large egg: Binds the dough together and adds moisture for perfect chewiness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors with a warm, comforting note.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and helps keep the cookies soft but firm.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a light, airy bite.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the peanut butter flavor.
- 24 mini pretzels (for antlers): Adds a salty crunch and the iconic reindeer antler look.
- 24 red M&Ms (for Rudolph’s nose): Creates that signature bright red nose, adding color and fun.
- 48 mini chocolate chips (for eyes): Small but crucial details that bring Rudolph’s face to life.
How to Make Rudolph Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Baking is all about preparation, so start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and clean up is a breeze. A warm oven creates the foundation for perfectly baked cookies.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Grab a large bowl and beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, and granulated sugar for about two minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial because it helps to aerate the dough, resulting in a lighter texture. Once creamy, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is fully incorporated.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, combining until no streaks of flour remain. This gradual incorporation helps prevent over-mixing, keeping your cookies tender and soft.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Next, roll the dough into one-inch balls and place them on your prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave about two inches of space between each cookie. Press down gently on each ball with a fork to flatten slightly—a classic peanut butter cookie signature. This also creates those lovely crisscross patterns that scream cozy holiday vibes.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges turn a light golden brown. Keep a close eye to avoid over-baking, as you want that soft center. After removing from the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for five minutes so they firm up, then gently transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.
Step 6: Decorate Your Rudolph Cookies
This is the fun part! Carefully press two mini chocolate chips onto each cookie for eyes, add a red M&M for that unmistakable Rudolph nose, and place two mini pretzels sticking out at the top as antlers. Press decorations gently but firmly so they stay put. These little touches truly bring the Rudolph Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe to life and make each cookie feel like a festive work of art.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the decorated cookies to set for a few minutes to ensure everything adheres perfectly. Then, gather your loved ones, pour some milk, and relish the joy of sharing these delightful treats. Every bite is filled with holiday spirit and that perfect peanut butter goodness!
How to Serve Rudolph Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe
Garnishes
If you want to elevate your Rudolph Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe presentation, consider lightly dusting the cookies with powdered sugar for a snowy effect. A small sprig of fresh rosemary or a sprinkle of edible glitter can also add an elegant festive touch without overwhelming the cookie’s flavor.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair amazingly well with classic holiday beverages such as hot cocoa, spiced apple cider, or even a peppermint mocha latte. If you’re serving a dessert platter, add some fresh cranberries or orange slices for vibrant color and a refreshing contrast to the rich cookies.
Creative Ways to Present
For a memorable holiday party, arrange the Rudolph Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe cookies on a festive platter surrounded by evergreen sprigs, pinecones, or fairy lights. You can also package them in clear treat bags tied with red and green ribbons for a charming homemade gift everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Rudolph Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe treats in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay soft and fresh for up to five days, making them perfect for sharing throughout the holiday week. Just be sure to keep them away from heat or sunlight to preserve their texture and vibrant decorations.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these special cookies later, you can freeze both the dough and the baked cookies. For the dough, shape into balls and freeze on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag. Baked cookies should be cooled and stored in a sealed container with parchment between layers. Thaw at room temperature before decorating.
Reheating
To enjoy the cookies warm, reheat in a microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. This brings out the fresh-baked aroma and softens the cookies just right—perfect for dipping in your favorite holiday drink.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds delightful texture to the cookies. It’s a great way to make the Rudolph Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe extra interesting and nutty. Just keep in mind that it might slightly change the softness, but the flavor will be fantastic.
What if I don’t have mini pretzels for antlers?
If mini pretzels are hard to find, you can substitute with small pretzel sticks or even pretzel twists broken carefully to resemble antlers. The key is to maintain that iconic reindeer look while enjoying the salty crunch.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use a one-to-one gluten-free baking flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture. The Rudolph Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe adapts well and still tastes delicious with this simple swap.
How do I keep the decorations from falling off?
Let your cookies cool completely before adding the decorations. Press the mini pretzels, M&Ms, and chocolate chips gently but firmly into the cookie surface so they adhere. If needed, a dab of melted peanut butter or frosting can act as edible glue for extra security.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Definitely! The dough can be made a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but can improve flavor as the ingredients meld together. Just bring the dough to room temperature before shaping the cookies.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the Rudolph Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe that goes beyond just taste. It’s the joy of creating something festive, the smiles that come from those adorable antlers and red noses, and the warmth shared around the holiday table. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—it’s simple, delightful, and guaranteed to bring holiday cheer in every bite.
Print
Rudolph Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Rudolph Peanut Butter Cookies are a festive and fun treat perfect for the holiday season. These soft and chewy cookies combine creamy peanut butter with a classic cookie dough, then get a playful Rudolph makeover with mini pretzels for antlers, red M&M noses, and mini chocolate chip eyes.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Decoration
- 24 mini pretzels (for antlers)
- 24 red M&Ms (for Rudolph’s nose)
- 48 mini chocolate chips (for eyes)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a uniform dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten each ball slightly by pressing down with a fork.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges become lightly golden. Then remove them and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Decorate: Once cooled, decorate each cookie by pressing two mini chocolate chips for eyes, a red M&M for Rudolph’s nose, and two mini pretzels on top as antlers, gently pressing decorations so they stick well.
- Serve: Let the decorated cookies set for a few minutes and then serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.
Notes
- For chunkier texture, use chunky peanut butter.
- Ensure cookies are cooled completely before decorating so the toppings adhere better.
- You can substitute pretzels with small pretzel sticks if mini pretzels are unavailable.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week at room temperature.
- These cookies freeze well; freeze unbaked dough balls or baked cookies separately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
