Ever since Alex and Sarah saw the delightful turkey-shaped cookies on a Thanksgiving special, they've been begging me to recreate them at home. Enter Thanksgiving Turkey Cookies—a fun and tasty treat that's as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. These cookies have quickly become a family tradition in our Manhattan apartment, offering a playful and delicious way to embrace the holiday spirit.

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Why you’ll love this recipe
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Recipe tips & variations
Storage & reheating
FAQs
Recipes you may like
Thanksgiving Turkey Cookies

Speaking of playful baking, if you love family-friendly creations, you might want to try our Nutter Butter Turkey Cookies.

Why you’ll love this recipe

These Thanksgiving Turkey Cookies are perfect for bringing together family and friends. They're super easy to make, and you can even get the kids involved in decorating. Plus, these cookies are a delightful break from the traditional Thanksgiving pies and offer a fun alternative that everyone will rave about!

Ingredients

1 (16oz.) package ready to bake peanut butter cookie dough
⅓ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
24 Reese’s miniature cups
120 pieces candy corn
24 yellow or orange Reese’s pieces
24 red mini M&Ms
48 candy eyes

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat the oven based on the peanut butter cookie dough directions. Line two large cookie sheets with parchment paper. Place the cookie dough on the lined cookie sheet at least 2 inches apart.
Use your palm or a flat bottomed glass to flatten the dough balls. Do not use a fork to create a criss-cross pattern as the package directions may instruct. Bake the cookies according to the package directions.
Once the cookies have completely cooled, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave at 20-second intervals until smooth.
Dip the bottom of an unwrapped Reese’s cup in the chocolate and place it in the center of the cookie in the lower third to create the turkey head.
Create the tail of the turkey by dipping one side of five pieces of candy corn into the chocolate, then place them in a fan shape above the Reese’s cup.
Press one of the Reese’s pieces in the center of the Reese’s cup to create the beak. Press a mini M&M into the Reese’s cup next to the beak to create the wattle.
Dip the bottom of two candy eyeballs in the chocolate and add to the Reese’s cup above the beak. Allow the chocolate to set for 20 to 30 minutes before serving.

Recipe tips & variations

Swap candy corn with colored sprinkles or small candy-coated chocolates for a different look.
If you're short on time, use pre-made cookies and just focus on decorating.

Storage & reheating

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to prepare them in advance, you can make the cookies a day before and assemble them on the day of serving.

FAQs

How do you assemble Peanut Butter Turkey Cookies so the candies stick properly?

Use melted chocolate as the "glue" to hold everything together. It creates a strong bond once set and adds a sweet touch!

Can I make these turkey cookies ahead of time for Thanksgiving?

Yes, you can bake the cookies a day ahead and decorate them on the day you plan to serve them. This will keep the candies fresh and vibrant.

What’s the best way to melt chocolate for decorating these cookies?

Microwave the chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure they melt evenly without burning.

How should I store Peanut Butter Turkey Cookies to keep them fresh?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If stacked, place a sheet of parchment between layers to prevent sticking.

Recipes you may like

Try our Gooey Oreo Turkey Cookies for a Sweet Treat or if you're after something a little simpler, our Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies are a delightful choice!