Eggnog cookies. Just the name evokes a sense of warmth, holiday cheer, and delicious anticipation. Imagine biting into a cookie that melts in your mouth, infused with the rich, creamy flavors of eggnog, and finished with a sprinkle of nutmeg. That’s exactly what these cookies deliver, and the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make!
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your baking journey, this recipe is for you. I remember the first time I tried making eggnog cookies; I was a bit intimidated, thinking they might be too complex for a beginner. But to my delight, they were surprisingly straightforward, and the end result was pure holiday magic.
So, this holiday season, ditch the store-bought cookies and treat your loved ones (and yourself!) to a batch of these homemade eggnog cookies. They’re guaranteed to fill your home with the scents and flavors of the season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these festive delights:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup eggnog
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, plus extra for sprinkling
For the Eggnog Glaze (Optional but Highly Recommended):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons eggnog
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Wire rack for cooling
Let’s Get Baking: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this aside.
3. Cream Together Butter and Sugars:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
4. Incorporate Wet Ingredients:
Beat in the egg, eggnog, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually Add Dry Ingredients:
Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Add Spices:
Stir in the cinnamon and nutmeg until evenly distributed.
7. Shaping and Baking Your Cookies:
Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown.
8. Cooling:
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Eggnog Glaze (Optional):
While the cookies are cooling, prepare the eggnog glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, eggnog, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Once the cookies have cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over them and sprinkle with a touch of nutmeg.
Eggnog Cookies Baking
Tips for Perfect Eggnog Cookies:
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chilling Time: If you have time, chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking. This will help prevent spreading.
- Storage: Store your eggnog cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
FAQs:
Can I freeze eggnog cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, bake from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
Can I use store-bought eggnog?
Yes, store-bought eggnog works perfectly in this recipe.
What can I substitute for eggnog in a pinch?
If you don’t have eggnog on hand, you can try using a mixture of milk or cream and a teaspoon of rum extract for a similar flavor profile.
Conclusion:
There you have it – a simple yet utterly delicious recipe for eggnog cookies that’s sure to become a new holiday favorite! These cookies aren’t just about the taste; they’re about creating memories, sharing with loved ones, and embracing the warmth of the holiday season. So go ahead, preheat those ovens, and get ready to experience the magic of homemade eggnog cookies.
Eggnog Cookies Platter
We’d love to hear about your eggnog cookie adventures! Share your baking experiences, photos, and any creative twists you try in the comments below. And don’t forget to check out our other festive recipes on Family Cuisine for more holiday baking inspiration!
