Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookies

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, delicious food! While the traditional turkey and all the trimmings are essential, sometimes a fun and festive dessert is just what you need to elevate the celebration. This year, skip the complicated pies and pastries and instead, delight your guests with these adorable and surprisingly easy-to-make Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookies. These little treats are not only visually stunning, resembling charming little turkeys ready for the feast, but they also boast a delightfully rich and decadent chocolatey flavor that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Imagine the delighted smiles as your family and friends uncover these delightful little cookies nestled amongst the other Thanksgiving goodies. They’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply enjoying as a sweet treat during those cozy evenings spent with loved ones. Prepare to be amazed by how effortlessly you can whip up these festive cookies, transforming simple ingredients into an unforgettable Thanksgiving memory.

Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookies Recipe

This Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookies recipe is a winner for several reasons, making it a must-try for your holiday baking. First and foremost, its simplicity is undeniably appealing. Unlike elaborate Thanksgiving desserts that demand hours of preparation and precise techniques, these cookies require minimal effort and time. With just a few readily available ingredients and some simple assembly, you’ll have a plate full of charming turkey cookies in no time. Secondly, the recipe’s versatility allows for customization. Feel free to experiment with different candy decorations, creating your unique Thanksgiving turkey designs. Let your creativity shine! Perhaps you’ll swap the candy corn for colorful sprinkles, or add a tiny bow for a more sophisticated look. The possibilities are endless. Thirdly, the irresistible flavor combination is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The rich chocolatey Oreo base, complemented by creamy peanut butter and smooth melted chocolate, creates an addictive treat that satisfies both chocolate and peanut butter lovers alike. Finally, these cookies are incredibly visually appealing, making them a perfect centerpiece for your Thanksgiving dessert table. Their cuteness factor alone is enough to elevate any gathering. Their festive charm will undoubtedly spark conversations and add a touch of whimsy to your Thanksgiving celebration. They are also perfect for those who want to bake with children – it is a fun, hands-on activity. So whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookies are guaranteed to be a hit.

Why You Should Try This Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookies Recipe

Beyond their undeniable charm and deliciousness, these Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookies offer several compelling reasons to add them to your Thanksgiving baking list. Firstly, they are incredibly fun to make! The assembly process is a delightful activity for all ages, making it a fantastic family project or a fun activity for a kids’ baking party. The creative process of decorating the turkeys allows for individual expression and enhances the festive atmosphere. Secondly, these cookies are a great alternative to the traditional Thanksgiving desserts. While pumpkin pie and apple crumble hold their own special place on the Thanksgiving table, these cookies offer a unique and exciting addition, diversifying the dessert spread. Their unique presentation and unexpected flavor combination will pleasantly surprise your guests. Thirdly, these cookies are incredibly versatile and adaptable. They can be easily customized to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Perhaps you want to make a batch of vegan Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookies by substituting the ingredients accordingly, or tailor them to be gluten-free. We provide some suggestions on variations in the “Tips and Variations” section below. Finally, these cookies are unbelievably easy to transport and serve. They are individually portioned, ensuring easy handling and distribution at your Thanksgiving gathering. They’re also perfect for grab-and-go snacks, making them a convenient and delightful treat for guests throughout the day. Try this recipe, and let the festive fun begin!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookies

To embark on this delightful baking journey, you’ll need a few essential ingredients and tools. Let’s delve into the specifics to ensure your Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookies turn out perfectly.

Ingredients:

• 1 package (16 ounces) chocolate sandwich cookies (Oreos recommended): The foundation of our adorable turkeys. Oreos offer the perfect chocolatey flavor and crumbly texture.
• 1 package (12 ounces) semi-sweet chocolate chips: These add richness and depth to the cookie dough. You can opt for dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips, depending on your preference.
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: This provides the perfect creamy counterpoint to the chocolate, adding both flavor and moisture to the dough. Use your favorite brand – smooth or crunchy, the choice is yours!
• 1/4 cup butter, softened: Ensures that the dough binds beautifully. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for optimal mixing.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile, adding warmth and depth.
• Candy corn (for feathers): This classic Thanksgiving candy provides the perfect colorful feathers for our turkeys. You can find these widely available at most grocery stores during the fall season.
• Mini marshmallows (for wattles): These little marshmallows create the adorable wattles under the turkey’s head.
• Pretzel sticks (for legs): These add a delightfully salty and crunchy contrast to the sweet cookies. Choose your preferred size and thickness of pretzel sticks.
• Small round candy (for eyes): These small candies can be chocolate chips, mini M&Ms, or any small round candies you prefer, adding the finishing touches to your adorable turkey creations.
• Milk (Optional): A teaspoon or two of milk can be added if your dough is too dry.

Utensils:

• Food processor or zip-top bag and rolling pin: For crushing the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs. A food processor makes quick work of this step, but a rolling pin and zip-top bag work well too.
• Medium bowl: For mixing all the ingredients.
• Mixing spoon or spatula: To combine the ingredients thoroughly and ensure a smooth dough.
• Baking sheet: For chilling the assembled cookies (optional).
• Parchment paper: To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
• Microwave-safe bowl (If melting chocolate chips in the microwave): You can also melt chocolate chips in a double boiler if you prefer.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookies

Now, let’s get baking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your adorable Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookies.

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough: This is where the magic begins! Begin by finely crushing the Oreo cookies. A food processor is the most efficient method, simply pulsing the Oreos until you achieve a fine, crumbly consistency. Alternatively, place the Oreos in a sturdy zip-top bag and crush them using a rolling pin. Aim for a texture resembling fine breadcrumbs.
2. Melt the Chocolate (if using chips): If using chocolate chips, melt them gently in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt them in a double boiler over simmering water.
3. Combine Ingredients: In your medium bowl, add the crushed Oreos, melted chocolate chips, softened butter, peanut butter, and vanilla extract. **Thoroughly mix all ingredients until a pliable dough forms.** If the mixture seems too dry, add a teaspoon or two of milk at a time, mixing until you reach a consistency that’s easy to mold. Avoid adding too much milk, as this can make the dough too sticky.
4. Shape the Turkeys: Roll small portions of the dough (about 1 tablespoon each) into oval shapes, creating the turkey bodies. Use your fingers to gently shape them into a slightly elongated oval, resembling a turkey’s body.
5. Add Feathers: Attach candy corn pieces to the back of each turkey body to create the feathers. Arrange them in a slightly overlapping pattern, starting from the bottom and working your way up. **Press the candy corn gently onto the dough to ensure they adhere properly.**
6. Create the Head: Use a small amount of the remaining dough to create a small ball for the turkey’s head. Attach it to the narrower end of the oval body, gently pressing it to secure.
7. Make the Wattles: Attach two mini marshmallows to the underside of the turkey’s head to create the wattles. Gently press them onto the dough to secure.
8. Add Legs: Stick two pretzel sticks into the bottom of the turkey body for legs. Ensure they are firmly inserted.
9. Add Eyes: Attach small round candies to the turkey’s head for eyes. These add the finishing touch to your adorable creations.
10. Chill (Optional): For easier handling and to firm up the cookies, place the assembled turkeys on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This step is optional but recommended for a more polished finish.
11. Serve: Once chilled (optional), your Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them on a platter, and watch your guests delight in their festive charm and delicious flavor.

Tips and Variations for Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookies

To further enhance your baking experience, consider these helpful tips and variations:

• Ingredient Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips (dark chocolate, milk chocolate), peanut butter (crunchy or natural), or even try using different types of cookies as the base, although Oreos are highly recommended for their flavor and texture.
• Vegan Option: For a vegan version, use vegan butter, vegan chocolate chips, and a vegan peanut butter alternative. Ensure all ingredients are certified vegan.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free Oreos and ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
• Decoration Variations: Get creative with the decorations! Use different colored candies, sprinkles, or even edible markers to personalize your turkeys. You could add tiny bows or other embellishments to make them even more unique.
• Avoiding Common Mistakes: Don’t over-crush the Oreos; a slightly coarse crumb adds texture. Also, ensure your butter is softened for easy mixing. Don’t overwork the dough, as this can make it tough. Finally, if your dough is too dry, add milk a teaspoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookies

While these cookies are undeniably indulgent, let’s take a quick look at their nutritional aspects and the benefits of some of the key ingredients.

Note: The following nutritional information is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used. For precise nutritional values, consult a nutritional calculator using the exact brands and quantities of your ingredients.

One Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookie (approximate values):

• Calories: Approximately 150-200
• Protein: Approximately 2-3 grams
• Fat: Approximately 10-12 grams
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25 grams

Benefits of Ingredients:

• Oreos: While not a health food, Oreos provide a satisfying dose of sweetness and chocolate, which can boost mood and provide temporary energy.
• Peanut Butter: A good source of protein and healthy fats, providing sustained energy and contributing to satiety.
• Chocolate: Rich in antioxidants, chocolate (especially dark chocolate) can have potential health benefits, such as improving heart health and cognitive function (in moderation, of course!).

Remember, these cookies are a treat to be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

FAQs

Conclusion

These delightful Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookies are the perfect addition to your holiday celebrations. Their adorable design and delicious taste will impress your family and friends. This recipe combines simplicity with festive flair, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to create these charming treats for your Thanksgiving gathering. Remember to share your creations with us – we’d love to see your festive turkey cookies! Leave a comment below, share this recipe on your social media, and don’t forget to tag us! Happy baking, and happy Thanksgiving!

For more delicious Thanksgiving recipes, check out our other blog posts, like this Creamy Pumpkin Ravioli or this amazing Apple Crisp with Oatmeal. You can also find many more dessert recipes such as our Oreo Fudge on our website.

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Adorable Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookies

These fun and festive Oreo turkey cookies are perfect for Thanksgiving. Easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 12 cookies

Course: Cookies, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 package (16 ounces) Chocolate Sandwich Cookies (Oreos)
• 12 ounces Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips
• 0.5 cup Creamy Peanut Butter
• 0.25 cup Butter softened
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• As needed Candy Corn for feathers
• As needed Mini Marshmallows for wattles
• As needed Pretzel Sticks for legs
• As needed Small Round Candies for eyes

Equipment

• Food processor or zip-top bag
• Mixing bowls
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment paper

Method

 

Instructions

1. Crush Oreos: Finely crush the Oreo cookies using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and crushing with a rolling pin. Aim for a fine crumb consistency.
2. Melt Chocolate: Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Alternatively, melt over a double boiler.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the melted chocolate, softened butter, peanut butter, and vanilla extract to the crushed Oreos. Mix thoroughly until a dough forms.
4. Shape Turkeys: Roll small portions of the dough (about 1 tablespoon each) into oval shapes for the turkey bodies. Gently shape them into slightly elongated ovals.
5. Assemble Turkeys: Attach candy corn for feathers, mini marshmallows for wattles, pretzel sticks for legs, and small candies for eyes.
6. Chill (Optional): For easier handling, chill the assembled turkeys on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 15-20 minutes.
7. Serve: Enjoy your adorable Thanksgiving Oreo Turkey Cookies!

Notes

If the dough is too dry, add a teaspoon or two of milk at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. Get creative with your decorations! You can use different colored candies or sprinkles to personalize your turkeys.