When the days grow chilly and holiday cheer fills the air, these Eggnog Cookies become a delightful and comforting treat. Imagine soft, chewy cookies kissed with the warm spices of nutmeg and cinnamon, bringing the essence of the season right to your kitchen. A light glaze dusts their tops, transforming each bite into a sweet, creamy indulgence. Trust me, these cookies have quickly become an annual favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Eggnog Cookies combine the nostalgic flavors of holiday eggnog with the classic comfort of cookies. They’re easy to make, perfect for sharing, and bring a festive touch to any gathering. Plus, the tender texture and spiced aroma will have everyone asking for your secret!
Ingredients Needed For Eggnog Cookies
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature: Make sure your butter is soft to create a creamy mixture that helps the cookies rise properly.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: This sweetener gives the cookies a nice sweetness while helping them achieve that perfect texture.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Pure vanilla brings warmth and depth to the cookies. Be generous!
- 1/2 cup eggnog: Use real eggnog for an authentic flavor boost in both the dough and the glaze.
- 2 large egg yolks: The yolks add richness and moisture that create a tender cookie.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: This will help create the structure of the cookies. Be sure to spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: This is the leavening agent that gives the cookies a lovely lift.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Nutmeg adds that quintessential holiday flavor, so don’t skip it!
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Cinnamon complements the nutmeg beautifully and adds warmth.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted: A smooth glaze starts with sifted sugar, ensuring no lumps.
- 3-4 tablespoons eggnog for glaze: Just like in the dough, this will add flavor and creaminess to your glaze.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla for glaze: It will bring everything together in the glaze.
- Dash of cinnamon for glaze: Finish off the glaze with a sprinkle of cinnamon for that extra touch of festivity.
How to Make Eggnog Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a stand mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla and eggnog, then mix in the egg yolks until well incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
- Combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients until just mixed—be careful not to overmix.
- Scoop the dough onto a greased cookie sheet, spacing them out about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden. The centers may look a bit soft, but they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Cool the cookies on a rack.
- For the glaze, mix the powdered sugar, eggnog, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Dip cooled cookies in the glaze and let them set on a wire rack.
How to Serve Eggnog Cookies
These cookies are wonderful on their own, but they shine during holiday festivities. Serve them at cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or as a sweet treat with your favorite cup of coffee or tea. Consider stacking them on a festive plate or wrapping them in cellophane for a delightful homemade gift.
How to Store Eggnog Cookies
Store your Eggnog Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them, but do note that they tend to be best enjoyed at room temperature.
Tips to Make Eggnog Cookies
- For extra flavor, consider infusing your eggnog with a splash of rum or bourbon if you like a little boozy kick.
- You can roll the edges of the cookies in granulated sugar before baking for a little sparkle and added sweetness.
- If the dough seems a bit too sticky, you can chill it for 30 minutes before scooping to make handling easier.
Variations and Substitutions
- Swap out the eggnog for more almond milk or milk for a non-dairy version, but the flavor will change significantly.
- Add chocolate chips for a delightful twist—you can never go wrong with chocolate!
- Substitute pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch; just chop them finely and mix into the dough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought eggnog for these cookies?
Absolutely! Just ensure you choose a quality brand for the best flavor.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Keep an eye on the edges. They should be golden brown while the centers may still look slightly soft—that’s just perfect!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.
Is it possible to make them ahead of time?
Definitely! You can bake them a few days in advance and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve. Glaze them just before serving for that fresh touch.
What can I serve with Eggnog Cookies?
These cookies pair beautifully with coffee, hot chocolate, or even a festive holiday punch. Enjoy the warmth of the season with every bite!
Eggnog Cookies
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature Make sure your butter is soft to create a creamy mixture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar Provides sweetness and texture.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Pure vanilla brings warmth and depth.
- 1/2 cup eggnog Use real eggnog for the best flavor.
- 2 large egg yolks Add richness and moisture.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour Spoon into the measuring cup and level off for accuracy.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder Leavening agent for lift.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg Adds quintessential holiday flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Complements nutmeg beautifully.
For the Glaze
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted Ensure it is sifted for a smooth glaze.
- 3-4 tablespoons eggnog for glaze Adds flavor and creaminess.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla for glaze Brings everything together.
- dash cinnamon for glaze Adds an extra festive touch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a stand mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla and eggnog, then mix in the egg yolks until well incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
- Combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients until just mixed—be careful not to overmix.
- Scoop the dough onto a greased cookie sheet, spacing them out about 2 inches apart.
Baking
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden. The centers may look a bit soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
- Cool the cookies on a rack.
Glazing
- For the glaze, mix the powdered sugar, eggnog, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Dip cooled cookies in the glaze and let them set on a wire rack.
