Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

These Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the festive spirit. With their soft, tender texture and rich eggnog flavor, these cookies are ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy family nights. The thick layer of creamy frosting, accented with a hint of nutmeg, makes them irresistible. Whether you’re an eggnog enthusiast or just looking for a delicious holiday cookie, these treats will surely please everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal skills in the kitchen, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Festive Flavor: The combination of nutmeg and eggnog creates a unique taste that embodies the holiday season.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies can be enjoyed at various events, from Christmas parties to New Year’s celebrations.
• Perfect Texture: The cookies are soft and tender, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.
• Customizable Frosting: You can adjust the sweetness and thickness of the frosting to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious eggnog cookies, having the right tools will ensure success in your baking adventure.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients without spills.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve a light and fluffy texture in both cookie dough and frosting.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking multiple cookies at once.
• Cooling rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (313 grams)
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (168 grams) (softened to room temperature)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (50 grams) (light or dark)
• 2 large egg yolks (discard the whites)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)(up to 1 teaspoon can be used)
• 1/3 cup eggnog (80 ml)

For the Frosting

• 2/3 cup unsalted butter (151 grams) (salted works too; omit salt from recipe)
• 3–4 cups powdered sugar (330–440 grams)
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (alcohol-free)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3–5 tablespoons eggnog (45–75 ml)
• 1–2 tablespoons cornstarch (AKA cornflour, if needed)

How to Make Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Nutmeg
3. Cinnamon
4. Baking soda
5. Salt

Whisk together until well blended.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Granulated sugar
3. Brown sugar

Beat until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

To the creamed mixture, add:
1. Egg yolks
2. Vanilla extract
3. Eggnog

Mix until combined smoothly.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Scoop Cookie Dough

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dollops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 8: Make Eggnog Frosting

In a mixing bowl, cream together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Powdered sugar

Add:
1. Nutmeg
2. Vanilla extract
3. Salt

Blend in eggnog gradually until desired consistency is reached. If needed, add cornstarch for thickness.

Step 9: Frost Cookies

Once cookies are completely cooled, spread or pipe frosting generously on top of each cookie.

Enjoy your homemade Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting!

How to Serve Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

These delightful eggnog cookies, topped with creamy eggnog frosting, are perfect for sharing during the holiday season or at festive gatherings. Here are some creative ways to serve them that will impress your guests.

Festive Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter, adding sprigs of fresh mint or rosemary for a festive touch. This makes an eye-catching centerpiece on your dessert table.

With Hot Beverages

• Pair these cookies with hot apple cider or a warm cup of spiced tea. The flavors complement each other beautifully and create a cozy atmosphere.

Cookie Gift Boxes

• Package the cookies in cute gift boxes or tins. Add a personal touch with ribbons or labels for a thoughtful homemade gift during the holidays.

Dessert Bar

• Include these cookies in a dessert bar alongside other holiday treats. Guests can mix and match their favorites, making it a fun experience for everyone involved.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create ice cream sandwiches. Choose vanilla or nutmeg-flavored ice cream for an extra layer of deliciousness.

Holiday Parties

• Serve these cookies at holiday parties as a sweet treat to enjoy while mingling. Their unique flavor will be sure to spark conversations among guests.

How to Perfect Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

Perfecting your eggnog cookies involves attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Here are some ideas to ensure they turn out just right every time.

• Chill the Dough: After mixing the dough, chill it for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances their flavor.

• Use Fresh Spices: Make sure your nutmeg and cinnamon are fresh for the best flavor. Ground spices lose potency over time, so check their expiry dates regularly.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges but soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.

• Let Them Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool completely before frosting them. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.

• Adjust Frosting Consistency: If your eggnog frosting is too thick, add more eggnog one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

• Experiment with Toppings: Add crushed nuts or sprinkles on top of the frosting for extra texture and visual appeal. This can elevate their look and taste even more!

Best Side Dishes for Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

If you’re planning to serve eggnog cookies, consider pairing them with delightful side dishes that enhance their flavors and create an unforgettable dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Spiced Hot Chocolate: Rich hot chocolate infused with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg complements the flavors of the cookies perfectly, making it a cozy pairing.

2. Gingerbread Cake: A moist gingerbread cake adds warmth and spice that harmonizes well with the eggnog essence in your cookies.

3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can provide a light contrast to the richness of the cookies, balancing out sweetness.

4. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese that offer creaminess without overwhelming flavors—perfect for contrasting textures.

5. Pumpkin Pie Bars: These bars bring in additional holiday flavors that pair nicely with eggnog while maintaining that festive vibe guests love.

6. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti can be dipped into coffee or enjoyed alongside for added texture and flavor variety during dessert time.

7. Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: The salty-sweet combination makes chocolate-dipped pretzels an exciting addition next to your sweet treats, enhancing flavor play on your dessert table.

8. Mini Cheesecakes: These bite-sized desserts provide creamy indulgence that goes hand-in-hand with cookie enjoyment at any holiday gathering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting even better. Here are some tips to ensure your baking is a success.

• Incorrect measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for flour and sugar to ensure perfect results.
• Overmixing dough: Mix the cookie dough just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and tender ones.
• Ignoring temperature: Ensure your butter is softened, not melted. Softened butter creates the right texture for the cookies.
• Skipping chilling time: Allow the cookie dough to chill before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances flavor.
• Underbaking or overbaking: Keep a close eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Eggnog Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a skillet over low heat and warm cookies for 2-3 minutes, covered with a lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting that might help clarify any doubts.

Can I substitute eggnog in these cookies?

Yes, you can use any non-dairy milk flavored with nutmeg and vanilla as a substitute for eggnog if desired.

How do I make my Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting more festive?

Consider adding colored sprinkles or festive decorations on top of the frosting for a holiday touch.

Can I use a different type of frosting?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze if you prefer something different.

How long do Eggnog Cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies can last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting are a delightful treat that everyone will love! Their soft texture and rich flavors make them perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home. You can also customize them by adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra flair. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the festive vibes!