The festive season always brings with it a warm hug of nostalgia, and nothing quite captures that spirit like the comforting scent of Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting wafting through my kitchen. One chilly afternoon, I found myself craving the seasonal delight of eggnog but wanted to channel it into something new and exciting. The result? These soft, fluffy cookies that are perfect for sharing—and, let’s be honest, perfect for sneaking a couple for yourself!
Imagine sinking your teeth into each cookie, a delightful burst of eggnog flavor enhanced by a hint of nutmeg and a luscious frosting that adds just the right amount of sweetness. They’re not just treats; they’re little bites of holiday joy that can turn any casual gathering into a memorable celebration. Plus, the best part is that they come together in under an hour, making them an ideal choice for last-minute holiday baking or cozy winter evenings when you just want to indulge in something handmade and delicious. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that effortlessly combines tradition and creativity!
Why will you love Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting?
Delightful flavors: The rich warmth of eggnog combined with a hint of nutmeg creates a festive explosion of taste in every bite.
Quick preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep, these cookies are perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Perfect for sharing: Bake a batch for family gatherings, holiday parties, or cozy nights in with friends.
Frosting magic: The smooth eggnog frosting caps off these cookies, adding an irresistible sweetness that everyone will love.
Unique twist: Stand out at any gathering with this creative take on traditional eggnog flavors! Enjoy the festive spirit by trying these delicious cookies today.
Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting Ingredients
For a batch of these festive delights, here’s what you need:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – sifted for a lighter texture
- 1 tsp baking powder – ensures cookies rise nicely
- 1/2 tsp baking soda – for that perfect tender bite
- 1/2 tsp salt – balances sweetness
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg – brings out the holiday flavors
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – for a rich, buttery taste
- 1 cup granulated sugar – sweetens it up perfectly
- 1 large egg – binds the ingredients together
- 1/4 cup eggnog – infuses the cookie with rich flavor
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – adds a hint of classic sweetness
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar – for a sweet frosting base
- 2 tbsp eggnog – smoothens the frosting, enhancing the flavor
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg – whipped into frosting for an extra kick
Now that you have all the ingredients, get ready to create some mouthwatering Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
How to Make Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This warmth will help your cookies bake evenly and develop that lovely golden edge that we all adore.
Whisk together the dry ingredients in a bowl: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg. Aim for a light and airy mix that sets the foundation for your cookies.
Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar in a separate large bowl. Beat until light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect soft texture.
Blend in the egg, eggnog, and vanilla extract until everything is harmoniously combined. The mixture should feel rich and smooth, with a delightful eggnog aroma wafting through your kitchen.
Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture gradually. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork it! You want to preserve that tender crumb.
Scoop the dough by tablespoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave enough space between each dollop to let the cookies spread beautifully while baking.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as you want that perfect balance between soft and slightly crisp.
Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to set properly and ensures they don’t crumble.
Prepare the frosting by mixing powdered sugar, eggnog, and nutmeg in a bowl until you achieve a smooth consistency. This delightful topping adds an extra festive flair!
Frost the cooled cookies generously with your eggnog frosting. The creamy layer will elevate each cookie into an irresistible treat that beckons for joy-filled bites.
Optional: Sprinkle with a little extra nutmeg for a beautiful finishing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting Variations
Feel free to play around with this delightful recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free option everyone can enjoy.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and almond milk eggnog for a creamy alternative that keeps the festive vibe alive.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for a warm twist that enhances the holiday flavors.
- Choco Delight: Mix in chocolate chips or chunks for a rich, decadent surprise in every bite—who can resist chocolate?
- Nutty Touch: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for additional texture and flavor. The crunch pairs beautifully with the soft cookie base.
- Frosting Variation: Try cream cheese in place of powdered sugar for a tangy twist in your frosting, making each cookie even more irresistible.
- Limiting Sweetness: Reduce the granulated sugar to 3/4 cup for a less sweet cookie that highlights the eggnog flavors beautifully.
- Minty Fresh: Add a drop of peppermint extract to the frosting for a festive minty finish that teams up perfectly with the traditional flavors.
Let your creativity shine and personalize these Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting to make them truly yours!
Storage Tips for Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and fresh, perfect for sharing or enjoying yourself.
Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, refrigerate the cookies in a sealed container for up to a week. Just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes prior to enjoying.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies without frosting in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight bag for up to 3 months. Frost them after thawing for the best flavor.
Reheating: To enjoy your Eggnog Cookies warm, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until just warmed through. Perfect for cozy moments with a cup of hot cocoa!
What to Serve with Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting?
Create a delightful holiday spread that complements your tasty cookies and elevates your seasonal gatherings.
- Hot Cocoa: Warm and indulgent, it’s the perfect pairing to dunk your cookies and cozy up during chilly nights.
- Spiced Rum Eggnog: Enhance the eggnog flavor with a splash of spiced rum for a festive drink everyone will love.
- Gingerbread Men: The spiced sweetness of gingerbread adds a lovely contrast to the creamy frosting and festive vibe.
- Walnut Brownies: Rich, fudgy brownies provide a delightful textural balance, transforming your dessert table into a chocolate lover’s paradise.
- Holiday Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits adds a light and zesty touch to your indulgent cookie experience.
- Pecan Pie: This classic holiday dessert brings a nutty sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the flavors of your eggnog cookies.
- Peppermint Bark: Crunchy and refreshing, this treat adds a festive twist that complements the rich cookies perfectly.
- Mulled Wine: Warm spiced wine can enhance the holiday spirit while providing a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
Expert Tips for Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, egg, and eggnog are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth mixture and promotes even baking.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to keep your Eggnog Cookies tender and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Perfect Baking Time: Keep a close eye as cookies bake; they should be lightly golden at the edges. Remove them too late, and they might become dry!
- Chill the Dough (if needed): If the dough feels too sticky, chilling it for about 30 minutes will help it firm up, making it easier to scoop.
- Frost with Care: Wait until the cookies have cooled completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting away and losing that beautiful look!
Make Ahead Options
These Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients, shape the dough into balls, and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just take them out and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping them into the oven. The eggnog frosting can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; just give it a quick stir before frosting. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delightful taste and texture while saving precious minutes on busy days!
Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best eggnog for my cookies?
Absolutely! Look for eggnog that has a creamy texture and rich flavor. Check the expiration date to ensure freshness and choose one with natural ingredients for the best taste. If available, homemade eggnog can add a delightful twist to your Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting!
What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Store your Eggnog Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and tasty. If you’re opting for a longer shelf life, refrigerating them in a sealed container can extend freshness for a week.
Can I freeze Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting?
Yes, you can! To freeze the cookies, first freeze them without frosting. Arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once firm, transfer them to an airtight bag or container, where they’ll last for up to 3 months. Frost after thawing for optimal flavor and texture!
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Not a problem at all! If your dough is sticky, you can either chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or sprinkle a bit of extra flour on your work surface. This will firm up the dough and make it easier to scoop and bake beautifully!
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Yes! If you have allergies, it’s important to note that these cookies contain gluten (from flour), dairy (from butter and eggnog), and eggs. For a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative and use a dairy-free eggnog. Always double-check the ingredient labels if sharing with others.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time for an event?
Very much so! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and then scoop and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have fresh Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting ready for your gathering!
Indulge in the Best Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Whisk together the dry ingredients in a bowl: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg.
- Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar in a separate large bowl until light and fluffy.
- Blend in the egg, eggnog, and vanilla extract until everything is harmoniously combined.
- Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture gradually. Mix until just combined.
- Scoop the dough by tablespoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Prepare the frosting by mixing powdered sugar, eggnog, and nutmeg in a bowl until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Frost the cooled cookies generously with your eggnog frosting.