Best Eggnog Cookies

why make this recipe

Eggnog Cookies are a delightful spin on the classic holiday drink. These cookies capture the rich, creamy flavors of eggnog, making them a perfect treat for gatherings during the festive season. The unique combination of spices, such as nutmeg and cinnamon, not only brings warmth to each bite but also fills your kitchen with a sweet, comforting aroma.

If you’re looking for a fun and easy way to celebrate the holidays or simply want to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is an excellent choice. They’re soft, chewy, and have a festive touch that can brighten up any holiday dessert platter. The vibrant flavors make them a great addition to cookie exchanges or as a sweet surprise for friends and family. Once you bake these cookies, you will find them disappearing quickly as everyone will want a second piece.

how to make Best Eggnog Cookies

Making Best Eggnog Cookies is a straightforward process. You don’t need fancy equipment or complex techniques—just a few bowls, a mixing spoon, and a love for baking. With easy-to-follow steps, even novice bakers can create these festive treats. The blend of spices and creamy eggnog gives these cookies a unique flavor that will be a wonderful addition to your holiday traditions.

Ingredients

To prepare the Best Eggnog Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 blend)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup full-fat eggnog

For the glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons eggnog

Directions

Follow these easy steps to create your Best Eggnog Cookies:

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). While your oven is warming up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Using a whisk or a fork works well for this task. This dry mixture is essential for providing structure and flavor to your cookies.

In another bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. You want to beat these together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step typically takes about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer. Adding air to the butter and sugars is key for a light cookie texture. Next, add the large egg, vanilla extract, and eggnog, mixing until combined.

Step 3: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to your wet ingredients. You can start by adding about a third of the dry mixture, then mix it in before adding another third. This step will help prevent flour from flying everywhere. Once all the dry ingredients are mixed in, you will have a thick cookie batter.

Step 4: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave space between each dough ball so that they can spread while baking.

Step 5: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. They should be lightly golden when done. Once baked, let them cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up a bit before moving.

Step 6: While the cookies are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and eggnog until it’s smooth and has no lumps. The glaze should be thick but pourable. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.

how to serve Best Eggnog Cookies

Best Eggnog Cookies can be served in many delightful ways. Here are some suggestions:

• As a festivity treat: Place them on a decorative platter during holiday parties. Their festive flavor makes them a perfect addition to any holiday dessert table.
• With milk or eggnog: Enjoy them with a glass of cold milk or even a warm cup of eggnog. The beverage will complement the flavors of the cookies nicely.
• Gift them: Pack these cookies in a festive tin as a thoughtful gift for friends, family, or neighbors. They will love receiving homemade treats during the holidays.

how to store Best Eggnog Cookies

To keep your Best Eggnog Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Proper storage will ensure they remain soft and chewy. If kept well, they can last up to a week.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until firm. Then, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you want to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature.

tips to make Best Eggnog Cookies

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps to achieve a better texture.
• Do Not Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Adjust Spices to Taste: If you love spices, you can increase the nutmeg or cinnamon content a bit, tailoring the flavors to your preference.
• Check for Doneness Wisely: Keep an eye on the cookies as they near the end of baking time. Remove them from the oven as soon as they are lightly golden to avoid overcooking.

variation

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are a few variations to consider:

• Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts into the cookie dough for added texture and a nutty flavor.
• Chocolate Chips: You can sprinkle in some white chocolate chips or semisweet chocolate chips for a delicious twist.
• Frosting Option: Instead of a simple glaze, try frosting these cookies with a cream cheese frosting for a richer taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes, you can use sugar substitutes, but the texture and flavor may vary. Always follow the conversion instructions on the packaging of the substitute.

2. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free 1:1 blend. Just ensure that the rest of your ingredients are gluten-free as well.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. You can also freeze it for longer storage, about 2-3 months. Just let it thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

4. How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies should be lightly golden at the edges and slightly soft in the middle when they are done. They will firm up as they cool.

By following these steps and tips, you’ll soon find yourself enjoying soft, delicious Best Eggnog Cookies that bring holiday cheer to every bite. Happy baking!

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