What Is Reindeer Food?
Reindeer Food is a fun, edible (or magical!) snack mix made during the holiday season. It’s typically made with oats, sprinkles, and sometimes cereal or candy.
Some families make edible snack versions (for humans), while others make “magical reindeer food” meant to be sprinkled on the lawn on Christmas Eve to guide Santa’s reindeer. Either way — it’s festive, easy, and fun.
Why Kids (and Parents) Love It
✅ No baking needed
✅ Mess-free holiday activity
✅ Perfect for class parties or stocking stuffers
✅ Customizable with fun add-ins
✅ Adds sparkle to Christmas Eve traditions
Ingredients You’ll Need
🥣 Edible Version (Snack Mix):
- 1 cup oats (quick or old-fashioned)
- ½ cup holiday sprinkles
- 1 cup Chex cereal or pretzel sticks
- ¼ cup mini marshmallows
- ¼ cup red & green M&Ms
- 1 tbsp white chocolate chips (optional)
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
⏱️ Total Time: 10 minutes
🎁 Makes: 3–4 small treat bags
Step 1: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine oats, cereal, sprinkles, M&Ms, and any extras like marshmallows or chocolate chips.
Step 2: Scoop & Package
Divide into small plastic bags, jars, or festive paper cones.
Step 3: Add a Tag
Attach a poem or label for fun (see below!).
Fun Packaging & Gifting Ideas
| Idea | Use |
|---|---|
| Mason jars | Reusable & giftable |
| Cellophane bags | Budget-friendly, cute with ribbon |
| Holiday treat boxes | Great for parties |
| Reindeer-print paper cones | Festive and creative |
Printable Poem Idea
📜 “Sprinkle this mix on Christmas Eve night,
To guide Santa’s reindeer with sparkly delight!”
You can create a small tag with this rhyme and clip it to each bag for a magical touch.
Storage & Safety Notes
- 🧊 Storage: Keep in sealed containers for up to 1 week
- ❄️ Cold weather safe: Great for outdoor traditions
- 🚫 Avoid glitter: If making outdoor “magical” food, use edible glitter or sugar only — safe for wildlife
FAQs
❓ Can I make a non-edible version?
Yes! Just use oats + edible sugar sprinkles (no chocolate or candy) and toss outdoors as reindeer bait.
❓ Is this safe for pets?
No — keep human snack mix away from pets (especially chocolate). Outdoor mix should be safe and wildlife-friendly.
❓ Can I let kids make this?
Absolutely! It’s one of the best holiday crafts for kids — safe, quick, and fun.
👉 Looking for more kid-friendly holiday treats? Check out our Chocolate-Covered Marshmallows — easy, sweet, and fun to decorate!
🏁 Final Thoughts
Reindeer Food is a magical blend of holiday spirit and family fun. Whether you’re gifting it, snacking on it, or leaving it out for Santa’s team, it’s a cherished Christmas tradition worth sharing.
Quick to make, endlessly customizable, and packed with seasonal joy.
