Name: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Eggnog Cookies for Festive Cheer
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg (can swap with allspice for a unique flavor twist); 1 teaspoon cinnamon (pumpkin pie spice works well as a fragrant substitute); 1 teaspoon baking powder (acts as a leavening agent); 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (ensure it's fresh for best results); 3/4 cup unsalted butter (can substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option); 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar (coconut sugar provides a lower glycemic substitute); 1 large egg (a flax egg can be an excellent vegan alternative); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (can replace with almond extract for a twist); 1 teaspoon rum extract (omit if needed, use extra vanilla); 2 cups powdered sugar (sift for a creamier texture); 1/4 cup heavy cream (can use coconut cream for a dairy-free option)

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As I unwrapped the festive baking supplies and breathed in the inviting aroma of spices, my heart raced with excitement. Nothing brings the warmth of the holiday season quite like a batch of homemade Eggnog Cookies. These delightful cookies are a perfect harmony of soft, chewy texture and a creamy, buttery frosting that evokes memories of cozy family gatherings. What’s more, they are budget-friendly and incredibly easy to whip up, ensuring you’ll have more time to bask in the festive spirit. With nutmeg and cinnamon working their magic, these cookies make for a truly special treat, whether you’re hosting a holiday party or enjoying a quiet evening at home. Are you ready to bring a sprinkle of holiday joy to your kitchen?

Why Are Eggnog Cookies a Holiday Favorite?

Delightfully Soft: These Eggnog Cookies are unbelievably soft and chewy, making them a true treat for your taste buds.

Festive Flavor: The combination of nutmeg, cinnamon, and a hint of rum extract perfectly captures the essence of the holidays, creating a nostalgic vibe you’ll adore.

Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch without breaking the bank—perfect for holiday gifting or gathering with friends.

Easy to Prepare: The straightforward steps make these cookies accessible for bakers of all skill levels, leaving you with more time to enjoy the festivities.

Customizable Fun: Feeling adventurous? Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to create your unique version; the options are endless!

Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are sure to impress family and friends, making them a fantastic addition to any holiday gathering. Try pairing them with a warm cup of cocoa or even a splash of holiday eggnog for an extra festive touch.

Eggnog Cookie Ingredients

• Prepare for a festive baking experience with these essential ingredients!

For the Cookies

Flour – Provides structure; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Salt – Enhances flavor; no substitutions needed.
Ground Nutmeg – Adds warm, holiday spice; can swap with allspice for a unique flavor twist.
Cinnamon – Contributes to the holiday aroma; pumpkin pie spice works well as a fragrant substitute.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for the perfect rise; baking soda can be used with some adjustments.
Baking Soda – Another leavening agent; make sure it’s fresh for the best cookie results.
Unsalted Butter – Contributes creaminess and flavor; vegan butter is a great dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetness and browning enhancement; coconut sugar provides a lower glycemic substitute.
Egg – Binds the cookie dough together; a flax egg is an excellent vegan alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; feel free to replace with almond extract for a twist.
Rum Extract – Imparts that classic eggnog flavor; if omitted, an extra splash of vanilla works too.

For the Frosting

Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve a smooth frosting; sift for a creamier texture.
Heavy Cream – Creates a rich and luscious frosting; coconut cream makes for a dairy-free option.

These delectable ingredients come together to create your holiday Eggnog Cookies—an irresistible blend of festive flavors that are sure to delight!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Eggnog Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking. While the oven heats up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will help prevent the Eggnog Cookies from sticking, ensuring they come out perfectly baked and easily removable.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. This blend of dry ingredients adds the perfect festive flavor and aroma to your Eggnog Cookies. Set this bowl aside while you work on the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, grab your electric mixer and cream together 3/4 cup of unsalted butter at room temperature with 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, giving your Eggnog Cookies their delightful soft texture.

Step 4: Add Egg and Extracts
Beat in 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of rum extract into the creamed butter-sugar mixture. Mix until everything is thoroughly incorporated, creating a rich and flavorful batter that will truly capture the essence of the holidays in your Eggnog Cookies.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients using a spatula or the mixer on low speed. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. You want a soft, sticky dough that’s ready to become the base of your Eggnog Cookies.

Step 6: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough and place it in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes. Chilling is essential as it prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking, helping maintain their lovely shape. This is also a great time to clean up your workspace!

Step 7: Shape and Roll the Cookies
Once chilled, preheat the oven again if necessary. Scoop out about 1 oz of dough and roll it into a ball using your hands. Then roll each ball in sugar to coat for a delightful sweetness. These steps not only add flavor but also create a beautiful finish on your Eggnog Cookies.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the sugared dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball with your hand. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. They should be lightly golden, signaling they are ready to come out.

Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the Eggnog Cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This lets them firm up a bit before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Skipping this step could lead to messy frosting later!

Step 10: Prepare the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, whip together 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1/4 cup of softened butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of rum extract, and about 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Mix until creamy and smooth, achieving the perfect texture for your Eggnog Cookie frosting.

Step 11: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, it’s time to frost! Use a piping bag or spatula to generously spread the creamy frosting on each cookie. This adds an indulgent touch that enhances the flavors of the Eggnog Cookies, making them incredibly festive.

Step 12: Add a Final Touch
For an extra special holiday presentation, sprinkle a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon on the frosting. This not only looks lovely but also reinforces those delightful flavors in your cookies, making them a beautiful centerpiece for any holiday gathering.

Make Ahead Options

These Eggnog Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and then chilling the dough in the refrigerator. This helps enhance the flavors while maintaining a soft texture when baked. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature or freeze the un-frosted cookies for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw and frost the cookies, and you’ll have a delightful holiday treat that’s just as delicious as the day they were baked!

Expert Tips for Eggnog Cookies

Chill the Dough: Always chill your dough for 20-30 minutes to prevent spreading. This keeps your Eggnog Cookies soft and chewy with a perfect shape.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for optimal rise. Old leavening agents can lead to flat cookies that lack fluffiness.

Cool Before Frosting: Allow the cookies to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a creamy finish.

Frost Generously: Don’t skimp on the frosting! A thick layer adds richness and enhances the festive look of your Eggnog Cookies.

Sprinkle Some Spice: For added flair, sprinkle a little nutmeg or cinnamon on top of the frosting. It gives a lovely aroma and elevates the flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Eggnog Cookies

Fridge: Store frosted Eggnog Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain their soft texture and freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze un-frosted Eggnog Cookies between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the cookies in the fridge overnight, then let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. This helps restore their delightful texture.

Frosting Storage: If you’ve made frosting in advance, store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Re-whip before using to achieve that creamy consistency once more.

What to Serve with Eggnog Cookies

As you savor the delightful taste of homemade Eggnog Cookies, imagine creating a complete holiday feast that tantalizes every sense.

Warm Cocoa: The rich, creamy chocolate perfectly balances the festive spices in the cookies, making each bite an indulgent experience.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm beverage echoes the warm spices in the cookies, adding an autumnal and comforting flair.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast to the chewy cookies, turning them into a festive dessert dream.
Cheese Platter: Pairing with a selection of cheeses adds an elegant touch, inviting contrast to the sweetness and making your gathering feel special.
Eggnog Milkshake: Blend ice cream with eggnog and a sprinkle of nutmeg for a deliciously festive drink that enhances the cookie experience.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad brightens the plate, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich, spiced flavors of the cookies.

These pairings elevate your holiday events, inviting friends and family to share in the delicious joy of festive favorites.

Eggnog Cookies: Flavorful Twists Await

Feel free to get creative with these delectable Eggnog Cookies—your taste buds will thank you!

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make it accessible for everyone.
Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the cookies’ softness beautifully.
Chocolatey Treat: Stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips or white chocolate for a sweet surprise that pairs perfectly with the warm spices.
Spiced Up Frosting: Incorporate 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract into the frosting for a refreshing minty twist; it’s like the holidays in a bite.
Extra Creamy: Substitute heavy cream in the frosting with rich coconut cream for a luscious, dairy-free frosting that everyone will love.
Vegan Variation: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan substitutes for butter and cream to convert this into a vegan delight.
Rum-Less Flavor: If you prefer to skip the rum extract, double the vanilla extract; your cookies will still be magical, without losing the festive vibe.
Frosting Fiesta: For a fun twist, drizzle your frosted cookies with melted white chocolate or colored candy melts to add that extra festive cheer!

These variations elevate the classic Eggnog Cookie experience and can turn your festive baking into a fun adventure. If you’re in the mood for more sweet treats, you might also enjoy our delightful Lemon Raspberry Cookies or the ever-popular Almond Snowball Cookies. Let’s get baking and create memories that taste as good as they feel!

Eggnog Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best nutmeg?
When selecting nutmeg, opt for whole nutmeg seeds if possible, as they retain their flavor longer than pre-ground versions. Look for nutmeg that feels heavy for its size and has a warm, aromatic scent. Ground nutmeg should be stored in a dark, cool place to maximize freshness.

What’s the best way to store leftover Eggnog Cookies?
Store frosted Eggnog Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure they are completely cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup that could affect their soft texture.

Can I freeze Eggnog Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze un-frosted Eggnog Cookies, place them in a single layer between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to regain their delightful texture.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your Eggnog Cookies spread too much, it’s often due to not chilling the dough long enough or using warm butter. For the next batch, make sure to chill the dough for at least 20-30 minutes and use butter that is at room temperature, not melted. This will help maintain their shape and enhance their chewy texture.

Are Eggnog Cookies safe for pets?
While Eggnog Cookies are delicious for humans, they are not suitable for pets. Ingredients like butter and sugar can upset a pet’s stomach, and the spices used may not be safe for them. Always keep holiday treats out of reach of your furry friends.

How can I make these cookies dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version of Eggnog Cookies, simply substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the frosting. For the egg, you can use a flax egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, allowing it to sit until it thickens. This way, everyone can enjoy these festive treats!