There’s nothing quite like the festive spirit that fills the air during the holiday season, especially when you’re met with the irresistible scent of freshly baked Eggnog Cookies. Imagine pulling a warm tray from the oven, soft and slightly spiced, topped with a creamy frosting that beckons you to indulge. These cookies are more than just a delightful treat; they’re an experience that rekindles joyful memories of cherished gatherings and cozy moments by the fireplace.
As I tinkered in the kitchen one chilly afternoon, combining spices and eggnog, a serendipitous moment erupted into these delicious, buttery delights. With each bite, I found myself transported back to childhood holiday traditions, where laughter and scrumptious treats flowed freely. Easy enough for a weeknight baking session yet impressive enough to wow guests at a festive gathering, these Eggnog Cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite on your dessert table. So, let’s dive into this heart-warming recipe that will turn your kitchen into a winter wonderland!
Why are Eggnog Cookies a Must-Try?
Delightful aroma fills your kitchen, enveloping you in warmth and nostalgia.
Spiced perfectly with nutmeg and cinnamon, they offer a festive flavor burst with every bite.
Creamy frosting adds a silky finish, making them eye-catching and decadent.
Family-friendly and easy to bake, these cookies invite everyone into the kitchen for some fun.
Perfectly versatile, enjoy them at holiday parties or cozy nights in.
Get ready to impress your guests and create lasting memories with this seasonal favorite!
Eggnog Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
- All-purpose flour – 2 1/2 cups helps create the perfect chewy texture for your Eggnog Cookies.
- Nutmeg – 1 teaspoon adds that signature festive aroma that warms the heart.
- Cinnamon – 1/2 teaspoon enhances the cozy flavor profile of these delightful treats.
- Baking soda – 1 teaspoon ensures your cookies rise beautifully for a perfect bite.
- Salt – 1/4 teaspoon balances the sweetness and elevates the flavors.
- Unsalted butter – 3/4 cup, softened to room temperature, lends a rich, creamy flavor to your cookies.
- Granulated sugar – 3/4 cup contributes to the cookie’s sweetness and helps it spread well.
- Brown sugar – 1/4 cup adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
- Egg yolks – 2 large provide richness and help with texture.
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon brings an inviting sweetness to the dough.
- Rum extract – 1/2 teaspoon gives an authentic eggnog taste, enhancing the overall experience.
- Eggnog – 1/3 cup is the star ingredient that makes these cookies truly special.
For the Frosting
- Unsalted butter – 2/3 cup, whipped until creamy, serves as the base for your velvety frosting.
- Powdered sugar – 3-4 cups sweeten your frosting to perfection, adjusting for desired thickness.
- Nutmeg – 1/4 teaspoon for an extra festive touch in every bite of frosting.
- Rum extract – 1/2 teaspoon adds a delightful consistency and flavor that complements the cookie base.
- Salt – 1/4 teaspoon helps balance the sweetness of the frosting.
- Eggnog – 3-5 tablespoons for achieving the right consistency and flavor profile in your frosting.
- Cornstarch – 1-2 tablespoons can help stabilize the frosting if needed, ensuring a smooth finish.
With these simple yet essential ingredients, you’re just moments away from creating warm and inviting Eggnog Cookies that will become a cherished part of your holiday traditions!
How to Make Eggnog Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) or 325°F (170°C) for convection ovens. Line your cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
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Whisk together the flour, nutmeg, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Setting this mixture aside will help ensure a well-distributed blend of spices and leavening agents.
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Beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl until fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes, creating a light and creamy texture essential for your cookies.
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Incorporate the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and rum extract into the butter mixture. Beat until everything is combined and your mixture looks smooth and silky, reminiscent of holiday cheer.
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Mix in the eggnog on low speed, ensuring it effortlessly blends into the creamy butter mixture. This will add that signature flavor to your Eggnog Cookies, making them a holiday highlight.
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Combine the flour mixture into the butter and eggnog mixture, starting on low speed and gradually increasing until just combined. The dough should be thick and sticky, full of fragrant spices.
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Scoop the dough into balls with about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons each. Roll them into balls and place them about 2 inches apart on your lined cookie sheets. For slightly flatter cookies, press them down gently with your palm.
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Bake one sheet at a time on the middle rack of your preheated oven for about 8-11 minutes, or until the tops look set, and the edges start to turn golden brown.
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Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This allows them to firm up, ensuring they don’t break when moved.
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Beat the butter for the frosting until smooth and creamy, which will create a delightful base for topping your cookies. It should have a soft, spreadable consistency.
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Add in 2 cups of powdered sugar, nutmeg, salt, and rum extract to the whipped butter. Start mixing on low speed and gradually increase until everything is well combined.
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Incorporate the remaining powdered sugar, adding it about 1/2 cup at a time, alternating with 1 tablespoon of eggnog until your frosting reaches the desired flavor and thickness.
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Frost the fully cooled cookies using a flat knife. Optionally, sprinkle a little extra nutmeg on top for a lovely finishing touch that adds both flavor and a festive look.
Optional: Drizzle some melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgent twist.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Eggnog Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply scoop the dough into balls, roll them, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, take them out, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then proceed with baking as directed. You can also make the frosting up to 3 days ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and when it’s time to serve, just re-whip it for the best consistency. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy deliciously festive cookies with minimal effort on the day of your celebration!
Eggnog Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic recipe that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend, ensuring everyone can indulge in the festive spirit.
- Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil, use flax eggs, and swap eggnog for a plant-based version to create a dairy-free delight.
- Chocolate Chip: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips for an indulgent twist, enhancing your cookies with rich, creamy chocolate goodness.
- Spiced Rum: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of spiced rum in addition to the rum extract for a warm, festive burst of flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Grate in some orange or lemon zest to brighten the flavor profile, giving the cookies a refreshing twist.
- Nutty Texture: Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and extra depth in each bite.
- Pumpkin Eggnog: Add 1/4 cup of pumpkin puree to the dough for a seasonal flavor fusion that screams cozy autumn vibes.
- Cranberry Drizzle: Top with a cranberry glaze for a tart contrast that beautifully complements the sweet cookie and creamy frosting.
What to Serve with Eggnog Cookies?
Let the festive flavors shine as you gather the perfect side dishes to elevate your holiday spread.
- Creamy Hot Chocolate: Warm, rich, and comforting, the smooth texture of hot chocolate pairs beautifully with the spiced sweetness of Eggnog Cookies.
- Spiced Apple Cider: This fragrant beverage complements the nutmeg and cinnamon in your cookies, creating a delightful drink for holiday gatherings. Serve it hot for an extra touch!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A cool scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a creamy contrast to your cookies and melts deliciously into each warm bite.
- Cheese Platter: Balance the sweetness with a selection of sharp cheeses, like aged cheddar or gouda, offering a delightful play of flavors and textures.
- Gingerbread Cake: For a warm dessert option, a slice of gingerbread cake with its spices will echo your cookies’ flavors while adding festive spirit.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mixture of seasonal fruits provides a vibrant contrast, balancing the richness of the cookies while adding a pop of color to your holiday table.
- Eggnog Latte: Amplify the flavors even more with a festive drink! The creamy coffee with hints of eggnog creates a delightful pairing everyone will love.
- Chocolate-Dipped Fruits: Fresh fruits dipped in dark chocolate create a sweet, indulgent treat that’s light enough to complement the richness of the cookies.
- Nutty Biscotti: For an interesting texture, serve crunchy biscotti. Their nutty flavors harmonize with the cookie’s delicious taste while inviting a delightful dip in coffee or tea.
Expert Tips for Eggnog Cookies
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Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your nutmeg and cinnamon are fresh for maximum flavor; stale spices can dull the overall taste of your Eggnog Cookies.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow the butter and eggs to reach room temperature to create a smooth and fluffy texture for the cookie dough, improving the end product.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the flour mixture with the wet ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
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Uniform Sizing: Use a cookie scoop for uniform dough balls, ensuring even baking. This helps every cookie achieve that perfect golden edge.
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Cooling Time is Key: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes before moving them to a cooling rack. This helps them set properly and prevents crumbling.
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Taste Test the Frosting: Adjust the sweetness of your frosting by tasting it as you mix. It should complement the cookie, making your Eggnog Cookies irresistible!
Storage Tips for Eggnog Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cooled Eggnog Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving to enhance the taste.
Freezer: Freeze undecorated cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag, where they’ll last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes before frosting.
Eggnog Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripened ingredients for these cookies?
Absolutely! For the best results, use high-quality eggs and fresh, room-temperature unsalted butter. When selecting nutmeg and cinnamon, look for whole spices that you can grate or freshly ground spices for maximum flavor. If your eggnog has been sitting in the fridge, check for any dark spots or sour smells to ensure it’s still good to use.
How should I store my Eggnog Cookies?
For room-temperature storage, place your cooled Eggnog Cookies in an airtight container. They’ll stay deliciously soft for up to 3 days! If you want them to last longer, transfer them to the fridge, where they can remain fresh for up to a week. Just make sure you bring them back to room temperature before indulging to enhance the flavor.
Can I freeze Eggnog Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the undecorated cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, allowing them to harden for about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and seal tightly. You’ll be able to enjoy these treats for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to refresh them.
What should I do if my cookies come out too dry?
Very good question! If your Eggnog Cookies turn out too dry, it may be due to overbaking or too much flour. Always measure your flour accurately; for best results, use the spoon-and-level method instead of scooping straight from the bag. If you notice that your cookies are browning too quickly, consider rotating the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even cooking. Adding an extra tablespoon of eggnog in the dough next time can also help retain moisture!
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
For those with allergies, note that this recipe contains butter, eggs, and gluten from all-purpose flour. If you’re baking for guests with dietary restrictions, I recommend substituting with gluten-free flour blends and using dairy-free butter alternatives. You can also replace eggnog with a dairy-free version or homemade eggnog to accommodate lactose intolerance. Always make sure to review ingredient labels to avoid allergens, especially for store-bought eggnog!
Is it safe to give these cookies to pets?
While your furry friends may beg for a taste, it’s best to keep Eggnog Cookies away from pets. Some ingredients like nutmeg, butter, and sugars aren’t suitable for them. If you want to treat your pets, consider making them special, pet-friendly cookies without harmful ingredients instead!
Delicious Eggnog Cookies for a Festive Holiday Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) or 325°F (170°C) for convection ovens. Line your cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Whisk together the flour, nutmeg, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set this mixture aside.
- Beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl until fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and rum extract into the butter mixture. Beat until combined.
- Mix in the eggnog on low speed, ensuring it blends into the creamy butter mixture.
- Combine the flour mixture into the butter and eggnog mixture, starting on low speed until just combined.
- Scoop the dough into balls with about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons each. Place them about 2 inches apart on your lined cookie sheets.
- Bake one sheet at a time on the middle rack for about 8-11 minutes.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
- Beat the butter for the frosting until smooth and creamy.
- Add in 2 cups of powdered sugar, nutmeg, salt, and rum extract to the whipped butter. Start mixing on low speed.
- Incorporate the remaining powdered sugar, alternating with eggnog until the frosting reaches desired thickness.
- Frost the fully cooled cookies using a flat knife. Optionally, sprinkle extra nutmeg on top.