Imagine bringing the most adorable and delicious turkey to your Thanksgiving table - and no, we're not talking about the main course! These Cute Turkey Cookies are about to become the showstopper of your holiday dessert spread. Perfect for kids and adults alike, these whimsical treats combine the classic comfort of a soft sugar cookie with playful, festive decorations that will have everyone at your gathering snapping photos before they take a bite. Whether you're looking to create a memorable family baking moment or impress your guests with Instagram-worthy desserts, these turkey cookies are your ticket to becoming the ultimate holiday hero!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Assorted candies for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer on medium speed. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
- Scoop out rounded tablespoons of dough and shape them into oval turkey body shapes on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Use different colored candies to create turkey features: - Candy corn for tail feathers - M&Ms or similar round candies for eyes - Red candy or icing for the turkey's wattle - Brown or chocolate candies for the body
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, use additional icing or melted chocolate to add final decorative details and secure candy decorations if needed.
- Store the decorated turkey cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for the smoothest, creamiest cookie dough.
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to ensure uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
- Don't overmix the dough - this can lead to tough cookies instead of soft, tender ones.
- Get creative with candy decorations! Let kids help choose and place the candies for extra fun.
- If the cookie dough seems too sticky, refrigerate for 30 minutes before shaping.
- Use a toothpick or small offset spatula for precise candy placement and detailed decorations.
- For a more vibrant look, choose bright, contrasting candy colors.
- If you want to make these ahead of time, the cookie dough can be prepared and refrigerated up to 2 days in advance.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and soggy cookies.
- For a professional touch, use royal icing to add fine details and secure candy decorations.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 45mg
