Eggnog Sugar Cookies

Eggnog Sugar Cookies are the perfect holiday dessert, combining the creamy, spiced flavors of classic eggnog with the soft, chewy texture of sugar cookies. These cookies are a seasonal favorite, featuring warm notes of nutmeg, cinnamon, and a subtle hint of rum extract to replicate the rich flavor of traditional eggnog. Ideal for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying with a warm drink by the fire, these cookies bring the festive spirit to your dessert table.

With their buttery flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, Eggnog Sugar Cookies are easy to prepare and even easier to devour. Whether you choose to enjoy them plain or topped with a creamy eggnog glaze, these cookies are a surefire way to impress family and friends this holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Festive and Unique Flavor
   The combination of eggnog, nutmeg, and cinnamon makes these cookies stand out among traditional holiday treats.
2. Soft and Chewy Texture
   These cookies strike the perfect balance between being soft in the center and slightly crisp on the edges.
3. Customizable
   Add an eggnog glaze, sprinkles, or decorative icing for a personalized holiday touch.
4. Kid-Friendly
   This recipe is simple enough for kids to help with, especially when it comes to decorating.
5. Perfect for Gifting
   Pack these cookies in festive tins or boxes for a thoughtful homemade gift.
6. Versatile Dessert
   Pair these cookies with coffee, hot cocoa, or (of course) a glass of eggnog for the ultimate holiday experience.
7. Easy to Make
   With straightforward ingredients and minimal prep time, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 55-60 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies
• Serving Size: 1 cookie

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 130
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 12g

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon rum extract (optional, for authentic eggnog flavor)

For the Eggnog Glaze (Optional)

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons eggnog
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of ground nutmeg (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

for Eggnog Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

1. Beat in the egg, eggnog, vanilla extract, and rum extract (if using) until well combined. The mixture may look slightly curdled, but this is normal.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

1. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances their flavor.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

1. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies

1. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Make the Eggnog Glaze (Optional)

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, eggnog, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar or eggnog as needed.
2. Drizzle or spread the glaze over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with a pinch of nutmeg for a festive finish.

Ingredient Background

Eggnog

Eggnog provides the cookies with their signature flavor and moist texture. Use high-quality store-bought eggnog or homemade for the best results. If you don’t have eggnog, substitute with a mix of milk and heavy cream, flavored with vanilla and nutmeg.

Nutmeg and Cinnamon

These warm spices capture the essence of eggnog and add depth to the cookies’ flavor. For a fresher taste, grate whole nutmeg instead of using pre-ground.

Rum Extract

A small amount of rum extract mimics the flavor of spiked eggnog. It’s optional but highly recommended for an authentic touch.

Butter

Softened unsalted butter ensures the cookies are rich and tender. Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.

Brown Sugar

Brown sugar adds a slight caramel flavor and enhances the chewiness of the cookies.

Technique Tips for the Best Eggnog Sugar Cookies

1. Don’t Skip Chilling
   Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking and allows the flavors to meld together.
2. Measure Flour Accurately
   Too much flour can make the cookies dense. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour properly.
3. Don’t Overbake
   For soft, chewy cookies, remove them from the oven when the edges are set, and the centers are still slightly soft.
4. Customize the Glaze
   Add a touch of cinnamon or maple extract to the glaze for a fun twist on the classic flavor.
5. Use Parchment or Silicone Mats
   These prevent sticking and promote even baking.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Cookie Sandwiches
   Spread a layer of eggnog buttercream or cream cheese frosting between two cookies for a decadent treat.
2. Holiday Cookie Platter
   Arrange Eggnog Sugar Cookies alongside gingerbread men, peppermint bark, and chocolate crinkle cookies for a festive dessert spread.
3. Cut-Out Shapes
   Roll out the dough and use holiday-themed cookie cutters for a fun and decorative presentation.
4. Gift Wrapping
   Place cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon or arrange them in festive tins for thoughtful holiday gifts.
5. Cookie Sticks
   Shape the dough into long rectangles for cookie sticks that are perfect for dipping into coffee or hot cocoa.

Freezing and Storing Eggnog Sugar Cookies

Refrigeration

Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To extend freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing the Dough

Freeze the dough in two ways:

1. Roll it into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and slice into rounds before baking.
2. Scoop out individual balls of dough, freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, and transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the bake time.

Freezing Baked Cookies

Freeze fully baked cookies by layering them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Use Whole-Wheat Flour
   Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole-wheat flour for added fiber.
2. Reduce Sugar
   Cut back on the sugar by 1/4 cup and add a touch more cinnamon for flavor balance.
3. Dairy-Free Option
   Use dairy-free eggnog and replace the butter with a plant-based alternative.
4. Gluten-Free Version
   Substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose baking blend.
5. Lower-Calorie Glaze
   Swap powdered sugar for a sugar-free alternative to create a lighter glaze.

Serving Suggestions for Events

1. Christmas Eve Treat
   Serve Eggnog Sugar Cookies with a glass of eggnog or hot cocoa for a cozy holiday tradition.
2. Cookie Exchange Party
   Bring these cookies to a holiday cookie exchange—they’re unique and full of festive flavor.
3. Holiday Dinner Dessert
   Pair the cookies with vanilla ice cream or eggnog pudding for an elegant dessert option.
4. Kids’ Activity
   Set up a cookie-decorating station where kids can glaze and decorate their own cookies with sprinkles and edible glitter.
5. Office Potluck
   Pack these cookies in a holiday-themed container for a delightful and easy-to-share potluck treat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use homemade eggnog?
Yes, homemade eggnog works perfectly and enhances the flavor of the cookies.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

3. What if I don’t have rum extract?
You can substitute it with vanilla extract or leave it out entirely.

4. How do I keep my cookies soft?
Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.

5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles easily to make a larger batch for parties or gifting.

6. Can I skip the glaze?
The cookies are delicious on their own, but the glaze adds an extra festive touch.

7. What other spices can I use?
Add a pinch of cloves or ginger for additional warmth and complexity.

8. Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Yes, both the dough and baked cookies freeze well for future enjoyment.

Conclusion

Eggnog Sugar Cookies are a festive, flavorful addition to your holiday baking lineup. With their soft, chewy texture and warm, spiced flavors, they capture the essence of the season in every bite. Whether you enjoy them plain or topped with a sweet eggnog glaze, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your family and friends.

This versatile recipe is easy to customize and perfect for gifting, entertaining, or savoring on a cozy winter night. Add these Eggnog Sugar Cookies to your holiday traditions and create sweet memories with every batch!

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