Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

These Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting are a delightful treat, perfect for the holiday season or any cozy gathering. With their soft texture and rich eggnog flavor, topped with a creamy frosting, these cookies will surely appeal to eggnog lovers and cookie enthusiasts alike. The hint of nutmeg adds a festive touch, making them an ideal dessert for celebrations and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: These cookies bring the classic taste of eggnog right into your dessert.
• Easy to Make: Simple instructions make these cookies perfect for beginner bakers or anyone short on time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a cozy night in, these cookies fit any celebration.
• Customizable Frosting: Adjust the sweetness and thickness of the frosting to suit your taste.
• Great for Sharing: With 30 cookies per batch, you’ll have plenty to share with friends and family!

Tools and Preparation

To make these scrumptious eggnog cookies, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool ensures that your butter and sugars are perfectly creamed together for a light and fluffy texture.
• Parchment paper: Using this prevents the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, ensuring they come out easily without breaking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking; this tool helps achieve the correct ratios for perfect cookies.

Ingredients

These eggnog cookies are soft and tender with a delicious eggnog flavor and a layer of thick and creamy eggnog frosting. With a hint of nutmeg – these are perfect for eggnog lovers or anyone who loves thick and tender sugar cookies.

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 works)
• 2 large egg yolks (discard the whites)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract (you can use up to 1 teaspoon)
• 1/3 cup eggnog (80 ml)

For the Eggnog 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 alcohol-free vanilla extract
• 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

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Whisk until well combined.

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 Eggs and Flavorings

Add in:
1. Egg yolks
2. Vanilla extracts
3. Eggnog

Mix until well incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Scoop tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 7: Cool Cookies

Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Step 8: Prepare Frosting

In a clean bowl, beat together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Powdered sugar
3. Nutmeg
4. Vanilla extract
5. Salt

Add in eggnog gradually until you reach desired consistency.

Step 9: Frost Cookies

Once cooled, frost each cookie generously with your eggnog frosting using a spatula or piping bag.

Enjoy your deliciously festive Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting!

How to Serve Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

These delightful eggnog cookies with eggnog frosting can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a holiday gathering or simply indulging in a sweet treat, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee – Pair your cookies with a warm cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Hot Chocolate – The rich flavors of hot chocolate complement the sweetness of eggnog cookies perfectly.
• Tea – A classic cup of tea can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy frosting.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Assortment – Include these cookies on a dessert platter along with other holiday favorites like gingerbread and sugar cookies.
• Fruit Garnish – Serve alongside some fresh fruit like berries or citrus slices for a refreshing touch.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches – Use two cookies to create delicious ice cream sandwiches; choose flavors that pair well with eggnog!

Gift Idea

• Gift Boxes – Package these cookies in decorative boxes as thoughtful gifts during the holiday season.
• Party Favors – Provide small bags of cookies as party favors for guests to take home after gatherings.

How to Perfect Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

To ensure your eggnog cookies turn out soft and flavorful, follow these tips for perfection.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Make sure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Correctly – Spoon flour into measuring cups and level off; this avoids dense cookies from too much flour.
• Don’t Overmix Dough – Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the cookies tender and soft.
• Chill the Dough – Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading and enhance flavor.
• Adjust Frosting Consistency – Add more eggnog if the frosting is too thick, or more powdered sugar if it’s too thin to achieve desired thickness.

Best Side Dishes for Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

Eggnog cookies pair well with various side dishes, making them versatile treats. Here are some delicious options that complement their flavor.

1. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses adds savory depth; consider including sharp cheddar or creamy brie.
2. Spiced Nuts – Roasted spiced nuts bring crunch and warmth, enhancing the festive spirit of your cookie plate.
3. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
4. Mini Quiches – These savory bites offer a delightful contrast to sweet treats, perfect for brunch gatherings.
5. Veggie Tray – Crunchy vegetables served with dip create a colorful addition that balances indulgence with health.
6. Savory Scones – Pairing sweet cookies with savory scones makes for an interesting texture and flavor combination.
7. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels – The salty-sweet profile complements the rich flavors of eggnog perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making eggnog cookies with eggnog frosting can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to perfecting this delightful treat.

• Incorrect Measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Too much flour or sugar can alter the cookie’s texture.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and tender ones.
• Ignoring Temperature: Ensure butter is softened to room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a creamy dough consistency.
• Skipping Nutmeg: Nutmeg is essential for that classic eggnog flavor. Don’t skip it or you’ll miss the festive taste!
• Frosting Too Early: Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting. Otherwise, the frosting may melt and slide off.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Item: Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Duration: They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

• Item: Place cookies in single layers between sheets of parchment paper within an airtight container.
• Duration: They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting?

Eggnog cookies with eggnog frosting are soft and flavorful treats inspired by the classic holiday drink, featuring nutmeg and vanilla flavors.

How do I make these cookies more festive?

You can add colored sprinkles or edible glitter on top of the frosting for a fun holiday touch!

Can I substitute ingredients in Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting?

Absolutely! You can use dairy-free butter or alternative flours if you’re looking for variations suitable to your dietary preferences.

How long does it take to make Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting?

The total time includes about 30 minutes of preparation and around 10 minutes of baking, plus cooling time.

Can I use store-bought eggnog?

Yes, using store-bought eggnog is perfectly fine and saves time while still adding delicious flavor to your cookies!

Final Thoughts

These eggnog cookies with eggnog frosting are not only soft and tender but also bring the festive spirit into your home. With their rich flavor and customizable options, they are perfect for holiday gatherings or enjoying with a warm drink. Try adding different spices or toppings to make them uniquely yours!