Holiday Eggnog Cookies: Irresistibly Rich and Decadent Delights

I remember the first time I tasted holiday eggnog cookies. It was during a festive family gathering, where the air was filled with laughter and the aroma of freshly baked treats. These cookies captured the essence of the holidays with their warm spices and sugary dusting, instantly transporting me to a place of comfort and joy.

As someone who finds solace and connection in the kitchen, I couldn’t resist the urge to recreate that magical moment. The holiday eggnog cookies quickly became a staple in my home, a recipe I turn to whenever I want to evoke that special holiday feeling. The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in these cookies mirrors the flavors of traditional eggnog, making them a perfect treat for the season.

These cookies are not just about taste; they are about bringing people together. Every year, I host a cookie swap party, and these holiday eggnog cookies are always a hit. They are simple to make, yet their flavor is rich and complex, a testament to the power of a few well-chosen ingredients. Join me on this culinary journey as we dive into the art of making these delightful cookies.

Holiday Eggnog Cookies

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 30-32 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Learn how to make delicious Holiday Eggnog Cookies that are perfect for spreading festive cheer this season. Try our easy recipe today!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup (240 ml) unsalted butter, softened (226 grams)
• 1 cup (240 ml) granulated sugar (200 grams)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) packed light brown sugar (100 grams)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract (5 milliliters)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk (120 milliliters)
• 3 cups (720 ml) all-purpose flour (375 grams)
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) baking powder (4 grams)
• 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) ground nutmeg (1 gram)
• 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) ground cinnamon (1 gram)
• 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) salt (1.5 grams)
• 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) ground cloves (0.5 grams)
• 1 cup (240 ml) powdered sugar, for dusting (120 grams)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract and milk until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, salt, and ground cloves.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
7. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
11. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

• Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugars.
• Use high-quality vanilla extract for a more flavorful cookie.
• Sift powdered sugar before dusting for smooth, even coverage.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 7g
• Protein: 2g

Keywords: 1. Eggnog cookies recipe, 2. Holiday dessert, 3. Eggnog treats, 4. Festive cookies, 5. Christmas baking, 6. Eggnog flavor

Crafting the Perfect Holiday Eggnog Cookies

Fundamentals

The secret to perfect holiday eggnog cookies lies in the balance of ingredients. Starting with high-quality unsalted butter ensures a rich flavor without overpowering the spices. Granulated and brown sugars add sweetness and a hint of molasses, enhancing the overall taste. Incorporating large eggs provides structure, while vanilla extract adds depth to the flavor profile.

To achieve the desired texture, all-purpose flour serves as the foundation, offering just the right amount of sturdiness. Baking powder acts as a leavening agent, giving the cookies a light, airy texture. The spices—nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves—are the heart of this recipe, infusing each bite with warm, festive notes. A touch of salt balances the sweetness, ensuring each flavor shines.

Preparation/setup

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for even baking. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, essential for the cookies’ texture. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Next, stir in the vanilla extract and milk until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, spices, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. This method prevents overmixing, which can lead to tough cookies. Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, allowing for easy removal and cleanup.

Mastering the Technique of Holiday Eggnog Cookies

Technique

Perfecting the technique for holiday eggnog cookies involves attention to detail. Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing ensures the cookies have room to spread without merging.

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Keep a close eye on them, as overbaking can lead to dryness. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is vital for maintaining their shape and texture.

Tips and Tricks

To enhance the flavor of your holiday eggnog cookies, consider toasting the spices before adding them to the dough. This technique releases their essential oils, intensifying their aroma and taste. Additionally, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This consistency helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother dough.

If you love experimenting with cookie recipes, you might also enjoy our Drop Butter Cookies or the delightful White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies, both offering unique twists on classic flavors.

Refining Your Holiday Eggnog Cookies

Perfecting Results

Achieving the perfect holiday eggnog cookies means paying close attention to the ingredients and baking time. Ensure your butter is just softened, not melted, to maintain the dough’s integrity. Measure your flour accurately; too much can make the cookies dense. Use the spoon-and-level method for best results.

The key is to watch for that golden hue around the edges—this indicates they are ready to be removed from the oven. If you enjoy a softer cookie, aim for the lower end of the baking time. For those who prefer a crisper texture, let them bake a minute or two longer, but be cautious to avoid burning.

Troubleshooting and Variations

If your cookies spread too much, your butter may have been too soft, or the dough could have been overmixed. In such cases, chilling the dough for 15-30 minutes before baking can help. Alternatively, if you’d like to experiment with flavors, consider adding a teaspoon of rum extract for an extra punch, reminiscent of traditional eggnog.

For more cookie inspiration, explore our Carrot Cake Breakfast Cookies or the scrumptious Peach Cobbler Cookies. Each offers a unique twist and can add variety to your holiday baking repertoire.

Presenting and Serving Holiday Eggnog Cookies

Serving and Presentation

Once your holiday eggnog cookies have cooled, it’s time to add the finishing touch: a dusting of powdered sugar. This not only enhances their appearance but also adds a delicate sweetness. Serve them on a festive platter for an inviting presentation that complements any holiday spread.

Consider arranging them alongside other delightful treats like our Coffee Butter Cookies or the light and airy Whipped Shortbread Cookies. These combinations create a variety of flavors and textures, sure to please any crowd.

Pairings and Storage

For a delightful pairing, serve your holiday eggnog cookies with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate. These beverages complement the cookies’ spices, enhancing your tasting experience. To keep them fresh, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

If you’re interested in more cookie creations, check out the Healthy Grab and Go Banana Breakfast Cookies for a nutritious and convenient option that pairs wonderfully with breakfast or as a midday snack.

Conclusion

Holiday eggnog cookies encapsulate the spirit of the season with their warm, inviting flavors. Their simple preparation and delightful taste make them a must-have for any holiday gathering. By mastering the fundamentals and paying attention to detail, you can create perfect cookies every time.

The versatility and ease of these cookies highlight their appeal, making them an excellent addition to any baker’s repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these cookies offer a comforting touch of holiday cheer. Embrace the joy of baking and share these delectable treats with your loved ones this festive season.

FAQs – Holiday Eggnog Cookies