When the leaves turn golden and the air fills with the scent of pumpkin spice, I know it’s time for our annual Thanksgiving tradition: making adorable turkey cookies! These delightful creations are not just a treat; they’re a canvas for creativity, inviting kids to dive into the joy of baking and crafting. I remember my own childhood, excitedly piecing together cookie turkeys with my family, their whimsical faces sprouting colorful feathers made of cardstock.
This fun project not only results in a sweet snack but also fosters a wonderful bonding experience, perfect for school parties or family gatherings. Whether you opt for store-bought cookies for speed or decide to roll up your sleeves for homemade dough, this recipe ensures that everyone can join in on the fun. Get ready to bring laughter, creativity, and deliciousness to your Thanksgiving table with these turkey cookies—a cute Thanksgiving treat kids can make!
These Turkey Cookies Are A Cute Thanksgiving Treat Kids Can Make?
Creative Fun: This recipe invites your kids to express their artistic flair by decorating their own turkey cookies.
Endless Possibilities: With options for store-bought or homemade cookies, you can easily cater to your schedule and preferences.
Kid-Friendly Activity: It’s a delightful way to engage children in the kitchen, enhancing their baking skills while making tasty treats.
Holiday Spirit: Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, these cookies add a playful touch that both kids and adults will love.
Memorable Tradition: Create lasting memories as you whip up these whimsical desserts together, establishing a cherished family tradition!
Turkey Cookie Ingredients
For the Cookies
• Cookies – These turkey cookies can be made with either your favorite homemade recipe or store-bought cookies for a quick option.
For the Decoration
• Red and Orange Cardstock – Perfect for crafting the colorful feathers; substitute with any colored paper you have on hand.
• Googly Eyes – Essential for adding that cute, whimsical touch to your turkey faces.
• Real Fall Leaves – Use these for a natural decoration; if you make the cookies in advance, opt for artificial leaves to maintain freshness.
For Packaging
• Cello Bags – Ideal for gifting these festive treats; choose 5″ wide bags for the best fit and presentation.
How to Make Turkey Cookies
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Prepare the Cookies: Start by either baking your favorite cookie recipe or using store-bought cookies. If baking, aim for a golden brown color, typically at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, then let cool.
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Cut the Cardstock: Using scissors, cut the red and orange cardstock into feather shapes, about 3-4 inches long. Let the kids get creative with different sizes and shapes!
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Assemble the Turkeys: Grab your cooled cookies and attach the cardstock feathers to the back using a dab of frosting or candy melts. Add googly eyes to give your cookie turkeys their signature charming look.
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Add the Finishing Touch: Optional: For an authentic fall vibe, place a real fall leaf on top of each cookie or alongside the feathers. This will give them a delightful and natural touch!
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Package the Cookies: Once decorated, gently place your turkey cookies into the cello bags, sealing them for gifting or sharing at your Thanksgiving table.
Optional: Add a little note with the recipe for gifting joy!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Turkey Cookies
- Creative Freedom: Encourage kids to use their imagination—let them choose different feather shapes or colors to make each turkey cookie unique!
- Frosting Guide: Use a thick frosting or candy melts for easy adhesion of the cardstock feathers and googly eyes; avoid runny frosting that won’t hold.
- Storage Advice: Keep cookies in a cool place if using real leaves; otherwise, opt for artificial leaves so you can prepare them in advance.
- Family Bonding: Make this a family tradition by incorporating storytelling while you decorate; share favorite Thanksgiving memories during the crafting!
- Timing is Key: Serve the turkey cookies fresh, preferably the same day they are made, to ensure they maintain their vibrant, fun appearance—these turkey cookies are a cute Thanksgiving treat kids can make!
How to Store and Freeze Turkey Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep decorated turkey cookies in a cool, dry place for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. If using real leaves, store them away from direct sunlight to prevent browning.
Fridge: For longer storage, place the cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and preserve the adorable designs.
Freezer: For longer-term storage, freeze undecorated cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before decorating with fun allergens-free toppings.
Reheating: If you decide to serve warmed cookies, gently reheat them in the oven at 300°F for about 5–7 minutes. This keeps the texture soft, making these turkey cookies a cute Thanksgiving treat kids can make!
Make Ahead Options
Prepare to make your Thanksgiving a breeze with these Turkey Cookies! You can bake the cookie bases up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container to maintain their soft texture. Additionally, cut the red and orange cardstock feathers ahead of time (up to 24 hours) and keep them flat and dry to prevent curling. When it’s time to bring the fun to life, simply assemble the decorated cookies by attaching the cardstock feathers and googly eyes. This way, you’ll save precious minutes on the big day, ensuring your Turkey Cookies remain just as adorable and delicious as if they were made fresh.
Turkey Cookie Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity with these fun twists on your turkey cookies that will delight everyone!
- Different Doughs: Swap traditional sugar cookies for chocolate chip or oatmeal cookies for a unique flavor experience.
- Sprinkle Feathers: Use colorful sprinkles or edible glitter instead of cardstock feathers for a sparkly, festive touch. An added crunch makes these cookies even more delightful!
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute nut butters in any cookie dough with sunflower seed butter for a tasty and allergy-friendly alternative.
- Fruit Accents: Decorate with dried fruits like apricots or cranberries to add a chewy, fruity flavor and vibrant colors while enhancing the healthy factor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder to your cookie dough for a seasonal spice that elevates the flavor profile wonderfully.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and egg replacers in your cookie recipe for a completely vegan take—everyone loves a good vegan turkey cookie!
- Flavor Extracts: Incorporate peppermint or almond extract into the dough for a new taste twist to surprise your family.
- Chocolate Drizzle: After decorating, drizzle melted chocolate over the turkey cookies for extra sweetness and a rich look.
What to Serve with Turkey Cookies?
These delightful cookies are the perfect centerpiece for your festive Thanksgiving celebrations, enhanced by simple yet scrumptious accompaniments.
- Warm Apple Cider: A cozy drink that perfectly complements the sweet and fruity flavors of the cookies, wrapping everyone in holiday warmth.
- Pumpkin Pie: The classic Thanksgiving dessert brings a familiar comfort that pairs beautifully with the whimsical nature of turkey cookies.
- Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy, slightly sweet, and full of fall flavors, this dish adds a warm, hearty texture to your Thanksgiving spread.
- Green Bean Almondine: Crisp and fresh, this dish provides a lovely contrast to the sweet cookies, balancing the meal with vibrant flavors.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness of the cookies, creating a well-rounded flavor experience.
- Kids’ Fruit Platter: A colorful and healthful addition, it visually enhances your table while keeping the kids’ fun at the forefront.
- Pecan Pie Bars: These bars offer a delightful crunch and sweetness that echoes the flavors of Thanksgiving, making them a fun dessert option.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop beside the turkey cookies will add creaminess, creating a delicious blend of flavors and textures for a festive treat.
- Hot Chocolate Station: Set up toppings like marshmallows and whipped cream for a fun and interactive drink pairing that kids will love.
Turkey Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right cookies for making turkey cookies?
Absolutely! Whether you go with store-bought or bake a homemade batch, the key is to choose a cookie that holds its shape well—sugar cookies or gingerbread are great choices! If using store-bought, look for thicker options that can support decorations without falling apart.
What is the best way to store decorated turkey cookies?
For decorated turkey cookies, place them in a cool, dry area for up to 3 days. If you have used real leaves in your decorations, ensure you store them away from sunlight to prevent browning. If using artificial leaves, you could keep them out longer without worrying!
Can I freeze the turkey cookies?
Certainly! To freeze your turkey cookies, I recommend freezing them undecorated. Just wrap the cookies tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they will last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before decorating!
What should I do if my frosting is too runny?
Very common! If your frosting is too runny and won’t hold the decorations, try adding confectioners’ sugar a little at a time to thicken it up. Alternatively, you could use candy melts, which are fantastic for adhering items like cardstock feathers and googly eyes securely.
Are these cookies safe for kids with allergies?
Absolutely! You can easily customize these cookies to accommodate dietary needs. For nut allergies, use nut-free cookie recipes and frosting. Always check labels on everything, such as googly eyes and decorations, to ensure they are allergen-free. If necessary, you can skip the decorations or use safe alternatives (like chocolate chips) to keep them festive.
How long do the turkey cookies typically last?
With proper storage, decorated turkey cookies will stay fresh for about 3 days at room temperature. If you store them in the fridge in an airtight container, they can last around 5 days. To enjoy them longer, freeze the undecorated cookies and decorate them fresh for special occasions—these turkey cookies are indeed a cute Thanksgiving treat kids can make!
These Turkey Cookies Are A Cute Thanksgiving Treat Kids Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Cookies: Start by either baking your favorite cookie recipe or using store-bought cookies. If baking, aim for a golden brown color, typically at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, then let cool.
- Cut the Cardstock: Using scissors, cut the red and orange cardstock into feather shapes, about 3-4 inches long. Let the kids get creative with different sizes and shapes!
- Assemble the Turkeys: Grab your cooled cookies and attach the cardstock feathers to the back using a dab of frosting or candy melts. Add googly eyes to give your cookie turkeys their signature charming look.
- Add the Finishing Touch: *Optional*: For an authentic fall vibe, place a real fall leaf on top of each cookie or alongside the feathers.
- Package the Cookies: Once decorated, gently place your turkey cookies into the cello bags, sealing them for gifting or sharing at your Thanksgiving table.