Irresistible Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Nutmeg Frosting: Your Ultimate Holiday Treat
Eggnog. It’s a classic holiday beverage, but it definitely evokes strong opinions – you either adore its rich, creamy goodness or you shy away from its unique flavor. I fall firmly into the “love it” camp, as do two of my sons, embracing every festive sip. However, my other son and daughter aren’t usually fans of the drink. That’s precisely why these eggnog cookies are so special. They possess just enough of that distinctive eggnog flavor to delight enthusiasts, yet they are remarkably subtle and delicious, truly winning over even the most ardent eggnog skeptics!
These soft, delightful cookies are a must-make for anyone looking to add a touch of festive cheer to their holiday baking repertoire. Topped with a silky, creamy eggnog frosting and a delicate dusting of freshly ground nutmeg, they’re not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making them an ideal addition to any holiday platter or cookie exchange.
Why This Recipe Is a Holiday Game-Changer
There’s a reason this recipe stands out among other holiday treats. When I convinced an anti-eggnog friend to try one of these, her initial skepticism quickly turned into surprise. She exclaimed, “I’m really not an eggnog fan, but I can’t stop eating these, who knew?” This common reaction speaks volumes about the cookie’s widespread appeal. The secret lies in the delicate balance of flavors.
Unlike some eggnog-flavored desserts that can be overly assertive, these cookies strike the perfect note. The cookie base itself is incredibly soft, with a tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth. This delightful texture provides a perfect foundation for the star of the show: the creamy eggnog frosting. Made with real eggnog, it delivers that signature holiday warmth and spice without overpowering the palate. A final flourish of freshly ground nutmeg elevates the experience, adding an aromatic depth that is undeniably festive.
The combination of a tender cookie and rich, subtly flavored frosting makes these cookies irresistible. They’re sweet, but not cloyingly so, and the spices (cinnamon and nutmeg) are perfectly balanced to evoke that cozy holiday feeling. Whether you’re a lifelong devotee of eggnog or someone who typically steers clear, these cookies offer a delightful entry point into the festive flavor, making them an absolute must-have for your Christmas cookie rotation.
Essential Ingredients You Will Need for Eggnog Cookies
Crafting these delectable eggnog cookies requires a selection of standard baking ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your pantry. However, the quality of each ingredient can significantly impact the final taste and texture of your cookies. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will ensure the best possible results.
For the cookies, you’ll need: all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, granulated sugar, unsalted butter (softened), eggnog, vanilla extract, and large egg yolks. For the luscious frosting, you’ll combine unsalted butter (softened), additional eggnog, and sifted powdered sugar, with extra ground nutmeg for garnish. A key tip for baking success is to ensure your butter and egg yolks are at room temperature. This allows them to cream together more smoothly with the sugar, creating a lighter, more uniform dough.
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How to Create Your Perfect Eggnog Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide
These step-by-step photos and instructions are designed to help you visualize each stage of making this delicious recipe. For a complete, printable version of this recipe, including all precise measurements and instructions, please Jump to Recipe at the very bottom of this post.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, thoroughly whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Whisking ensures that the leavening agent and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour, leading to consistent flavor and rise in your cookies. Once combined, set this mixture aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well-combined. This creaming process incorporates air into the butter, which is crucial for achieving a tender and soft cookie texture. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is fully blended.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: To the creamed butter and sugar, add the eggnog, vanilla extract, and egg yolks. Beat these ingredients on medium speed until they are thoroughly combined and smooth. The egg yolks add richness and help bind the dough.
- Add Flour Mixture: Gradually add the whisked flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed just until no traces of dry flour remain. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tougher cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Form and Chill the Dough: The cookie dough will be quite sticky at this stage, which is perfectly normal. Transfer the dough onto a sheet of waxed paper. Using the waxed paper to help, form the dough into a log shape. If the dough is too sticky to handle easily, place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up slightly before shaping into a log. Once shaped, wrap the dough log tightly in the waxed paper (or plastic wrap) and chill it in the freezer for at least 2 hours. This chilling step is essential as it helps the cookies hold their shape during baking and prevents excessive spreading. It also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line insulated baking sheets with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents sticking and aids in even baking.
- Slice and Arrange: Remove the chilled dough log from the freezer. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the log into 1/2-inch thick slices. Arrange these slices on the prepared baking sheets, leaving an inch or so of space between each cookie, as they will expand slightly during baking. If your dough is still very frozen and difficult to slice, let it sit out at room temperature for a few minutes until it’s just pliable enough to cut.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the cookies for approximately 15 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden, but the centers should still be soft. Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on them; avoid over-baking to maintain their tender texture. Once baked, remove the sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to rest on the hot pan for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly before being transferred. Afterwards, carefully move the cookies to cooling racks to cool completely before frosting.
Crafting the Creamy Eggnog Frosting
No eggnog cookie is complete without a generous dollop of rich, flavorful frosting. This creamy eggnog frosting is the crowning glory of these holiday treats, adding moisture, sweetness, and that unmistakable seasonal spice.
- Cream the Butter: In a medium bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with an electric mixer until it is light and creamy. This is the foundation for a smooth frosting, so ensure it’s whipped sufficiently.
- Begin Sweetening: Slowly add 1 cup of the sifted powdered sugar to the butter, mixing on low speed until combined. Gradually adding the sugar prevents a powdered sugar cloud from taking over your kitchen!
- Infuse with Eggnog: Add 4 tablespoons of the eggnog to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat well until smooth. This is where the distinct eggnog flavor begins to shine through.
- Continue Mixing Sugar: Incorporate the remaining powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting is smooth and lump-free.
- Adjust Consistency: The consistency of your frosting is key. You can use the remaining 2 tablespoons of eggnog, adding it one tablespoon at a time, to achieve your desired frosting consistency. For a thick, pipeable frosting, you might use less. For a slightly thinner, easily spreadable frosting, you might use more. In our tests, a total of 5 tablespoons of eggnog yielded the perfect creamy texture.
- Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cooled, generously frost each one with the prepared eggnog frosting using a knife, spatula, or piping bag for a more decorative finish.
- Garnish with Nutmeg: For that quintessential eggnog touch and an added layer of aroma, dust the frosted cookies with freshly ground nutmeg. Using a sifter ensures an even, delicate coating.
Tips for Baking Perfect Eggnog Cookies Every Time
Achieving bakery-quality eggnog cookies is easier than you think with these expert tips:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps them emulsify properly, creating a smoother, more uniform dough and frosting, which in turn leads to a better texture in your final product.
- Don’t Overmix: When adding the dry ingredients to the wet, mix only until just combined. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough, dense cookies instead of soft, tender ones.
- Chill the Dough Thoroughly: The chilling step is not optional. It allows the butter to re-solidify, preventing the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. It also gives the flavors a chance to deepen, resulting in a more pronounced eggnog taste.
- Measure Flour Correctly: For accurate measurements, spoon flour into your measuring cup and then level it off with a straight edge, rather than scooping directly from the bag. This prevents compacting the flour and adding too much.
- Use an Oven Thermometer: Oven temperatures can vary significantly. An inexpensive oven thermometer can confirm your oven is heating to the correct temperature, preventing under or over-baking.
- Fresh Nutmeg for Garnish: While ground nutmeg works, freshly grated nutmeg for the garnish offers a superior aroma and flavor, making a noticeable difference in the overall experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eggnog Cookies
Absolutely! These eggnog cookies are excellent for making in advance, which is perfect for busy holiday schedules. The raw cookie dough can be prepared and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Yes, you can easily freeze baked and frosted eggnog cookies. To do so, place the frosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with wax paper and freeze them for 2-3 hours, or until they are solid. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to an airtight freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking. Thaw them at room temperature for a few hours before serving. This method helps maintain their texture and prevents the frosting from becoming messy.
For the richest flavor and best texture, we recommend using full-fat, traditional dairy eggnog. While lower-fat or non-dairy alternatives might work, they can sometimes alter the consistency of the dough and frosting. Always check the ingredient list for your chosen eggnog to ensure it doesn’t contain unusual thickeners or flavors that might impact the outcome.
To enhance the traditional holiday flavor, you can certainly add a touch of alcohol. For the cookies, you could substitute a portion (1-2 teaspoons) of the vanilla extract with rum extract or a tablespoon of rum or brandy. For the frosting, a teaspoon of rum or brandy can be added with the eggnog, adjusting the powdered sugar as needed to maintain consistency. Start with a small amount and taste as you go to achieve your desired flavor profile.
There are a few common reasons for cookies spreading too much: the butter was too warm when creamed, the dough wasn’t chilled long enough (or at all), or your oven temperature was too low. Ensure your butter is softened but still cool to the touch before creaming, and strictly adhere to the chilling time in the freezer. Using an oven thermometer can confirm your oven is at the correct temperature.
Once frosted, store the eggnog cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If your kitchen is particularly warm, or if you’ve added alcohol to the frosting, refrigerating them might be a safer option. If stacking, place parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent the frosting from sticking together.
These eggnog cookies offer the perfect blend of festive flavor and universal appeal. Their soft texture, combined with the creamy, subtly spiced eggnog frosting and a hint of nutmeg, creates a truly irresistible treat that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re an eggnog lover or a skeptic, these cookies are sure to become a cherished part of your holiday baking traditions.
Discover More Festive Christmas Recipes
The holiday season is a perfect time for baking and sharing delicious treats. If you’ve enjoyed these eggnog cookies, you’ll love exploring some of our other favorite Christmas cookie recipes that are sure to spread cheer:
- Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies: Beautiful, vibrant, and perfectly chewy.
- Gingersnap Cookies: A classic with a satisfying snap and warm spices.
- Snickerdoodles: Soft, tangy, and coated in cinnamon sugar.
- Peanut Butter Fudge Cookies: A delightful combination of two beloved desserts.
- Cornflake Christmas Wreaths: A fun, no-bake treat perfect for kids.
- Christmas Kiss Cookies: Melt-in-your-mouth cookies topped with a chocolate kiss.
- Gingerbread Oreo Truffles: An easy and impressive no-bake truffle.
I genuinely love to bake and cook, and my greatest joy is sharing my kitchen experiences and tested recipes with all of you! Remembering to visit the blog daily for new ideas can be challenging, which is why I offer a convenient newsletter. Every time a new, delicious recipe posts, you can receive it directly in your inbox. Simply subscribe today and start receiving your free daily recipes, making your meal planning and baking adventures easier and more inspiring!
Eggnog Cookies
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 3 cups all purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter softened
- ¾ cup eggnog
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large egg yolks
- Ground nutmeg for garnish optional
Frosting
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 4-6 tablespoons eggnog
- 3 cups powdered sugar sifted
Things You’ll Need
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Insulated baking sheets
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Wire cooling racks
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Sifter
Before You Begin
- As with most cookie doughs, you can make this dough ahead of time. Eggnog cookie dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months.
- You can freeze completed cookies by placing cookies on a wax paper lined sheet and freezing 2-3 hours. When solid, place frozen cookies into an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature.
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
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In a large bowl with an electric mixer, combine butter and sugar until mixed well.
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Add eggnog, vanilla extract, and egg yolks and beat until well combined.
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Add the flour mixture and mix until no traces of flour remain.
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Place cookie dough onto a sheet of waxed paper. It will be sticky. Form a log and roll in waxed paper. If it’s too sticky, place in fridge for 30 minutes to firm up, then roll into a log. Chill in the freezer for 2 hours.
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Preheat oven to 325 F and line insulated baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Remove dough log from freezer. Cut into 1/2-inch thick slices and arrange on baking sheet an inch or so apart. If cookies are still frozen, allow to sit out for a few minutes until they are thawed.
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Bake for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to rest on pan for 5 minutes. Move to cooling racks to cool completely.
Prepare the Frosting
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Beat the butter until creamy.
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Slowly add 1 cup of the powdered sugar.
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Add 4 tablespoons of the eggnog.
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Mix in remaining powdered sugar.
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You can use the remaining 2 tablespoons of eggnog to get your frosting to the desired consistency. (We used a total of 5 tablespoons of eggnog.)
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Frost the cookies.
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Dust the frosted cookies with nutmeg using a sifter.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.