Reindeer Gingerbread Cookie Sandwiches are a festive holiday treat that combines soft, spiced gingerbread cookies with a creamy filling and adorable reindeer decorations. These cookie sandwiches are perfect for Christmas baking, holiday parties, school events, and gift boxes. With warm gingerbread spices and a smooth frosting center, they taste just as good as they look.
What makes these cookies extra special is their playful presentation. Each sandwich is decorated to look like a reindeer, making them a favorite among kids and a standout on Christmas cookie trays. Despite their detailed appearance, these Reindeer Gingerbread Cookie Sandwiches are surprisingly easy to make and perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Why You’ll Love These Reindeer Gingerbread Cookie Sandwiches
- Soft, spiced gingerbread cookies with a creamy filling
- Fun and festive reindeer design
- Perfect for Christmas parties and cookie exchanges
- Great for baking with kids
- Make-ahead and freezer-friendly
- Eye-catching holiday dessert
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you’re looking for a Christmas cookie that goes beyond traditional cut-outs, this recipe is a must-try. These cookie sandwiches combine classic gingerbread flavor with a rich filling and a creative holiday design. They’re impressive enough for gifting yet simple enough for home bakers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Gingerbread Cookies
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- ½ cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Decorating
- Mini pretzels (antlers)
- Candy eyes or chocolate chips
- Red candies (for noses)
- Chocolate icing or melted chocolate
How to Make Reindeer Gingerbread Cookie Sandwiches
Step 1 — Make the Cookie Dough
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
In another bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg, molasses, and vanilla. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
Step 2 — Chill and Roll
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Roll dough to about ¼-inch thickness and cut into circles or shapes using a cookie cutter.
Step 3 — Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, until cookies are set but still soft. Let cool completely.
Step 4 — Make the Filling
Beat butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until creamy and spreadable.
Step 5 — Assemble Sandwiches
Spread filling on the flat side of one cookie and top with another cookie to form a sandwich.
Step 6 — Decorate as Reindeer
Press mini pretzels into the top for antlers. Add candy eyes and a red candy nose using icing or melted chocolate.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per sandwich)
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 2g
Values may vary depending on filling and decorations.
Tips for the Best Reindeer Gingerbread Cookie Sandwiches
- Chill dough to prevent spreading
- Do not overbake; cookies should stay soft
- Match cookie sizes before sandwiching
- Let cookies cool completely before filling
- Use piping bags or toothpicks for neat decorating
- Assemble decorations before chocolate sets
Variations & Substitutions
- Use cream cheese frosting instead of buttercream
- Make chocolate gingerbread cookies
- Use store-bought gingerbread cookies to save time
- Add orange zest to the filling for extra flavor
- Swap molasses with dark honey for a milder taste
What to Serve With Reindeer Gingerbread Cookie Sandwiches
- Hot chocolate or cocoa bar
- Coffee or peppermint latte
- Christmas dessert boards
- Holiday cookie platters
- Gift boxes and treat bags
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the dough chilling step
- Overbaking cookies (makes them hard)
- Using filling that’s too soft
- Decorating before cookies are fully cool
- Overloading decorations causing them to fall off
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Store assembled sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Refrigerate for up to 7 days
- Freeze unfilled cookies for up to 2 months
- Assemble and decorate after thawing for best appearance
Conclusion
Reindeer Gingerbread Cookie Sandwiches are the perfect combination of festive fun and classic holiday flavor. With soft gingerbread cookies, creamy filling, and adorable reindeer decorations, these cookie sandwiches are guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re baking for a party, gifting homemade treats, or starting a holiday tradition, this recipe delivers joy in every bite.
General Information
- Course: Dessert / Cookies
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Bake Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Servings: 18 sandwich cookies
- Difficulty: Medium
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Bake cookies in advance and assemble the day before serving.
Can kids help decorate these cookies?
Absolutely. Decorating the reindeer faces is fun and kid-friendly.
Can I freeze the cookie sandwiches?
Freeze cookies without filling. Assemble after thawing.
What if I don’t have pretzels for antlers?
Use sliced almonds, candy antlers, or piped chocolate instead.
Can I use store-bought frosting?
Yes, store-bought frosting works well if you’re short on time.