Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting and Spiced Topping Recipe

If you’re a fan of festive flavors and cozy holiday treats, you are going to absolutely adore this Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting and Spiced Topping Recipe. These cookies boast a soft, cakey texture infused with rich eggnog flavor that instantly brings the warmth and joy of the season straight to your kitchen. Topped with a luscious eggnog frosting and a perfectly balanced sprinkle of nutmeg and cinnamon, they make every bite a delightful celebration. Trust me, once you try these, they will quickly become a staple for your holiday baking repertoire and a showstopper at any cookie exchange!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the right ingredients for this recipe is simpler than you think, but each one plays a special role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and that unmistakable festive color. From the creamy softness of butter to the aromatic spices, these essentials come together to make magic happen in your cookie jar.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and helps keep the cookies soft and tender.
• 1/2 cup sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with a light texture.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Brings a deep, caramel-like flavor and moistness.
• 1 egg: Acts as a binder and contributes to the cakey structure.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, sweet aroma.
• 1/2 cup eggnog: Infuses the dough with authentic eggnog flavor and moisture.
• 2 1/2 cups flour: The foundation of the dough—holds everything together.
• 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just right.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg: Adds a classic holiday spice note.
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and a cozy spice kick.

For the Eggnog Frosting:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Makes the frosting creamy and smooth.
• 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect spreadable consistency.
• 1/3 cup eggnog: Continues the festive flavor theme in every bite.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic touch to the frosting.

For the Spiced Topping:

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg: Perfect finishing touch with spicy warmth.
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon: Complements the nutmeg with subtle sweetness and depth.

How to Make Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting and Spiced Topping Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze—this simple step lays the groundwork for perfectly baked eggnog cookies.

Step 2: Mixing the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl or your stand mixer, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar until it’s fluffy and light. Then, beat in the egg, vanilla, and the star of the show, eggnog, until everything is smoothly combined into a soft, creamy mixture. This infusion of eggnog in the batter is what gives the cookies their signature flavor.

Step 3: Combining the Dry Ingredients

Take another bowl and whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisking ensures the spices are evenly mixed, which will allow every bite to have that perfect hint of holiday warmth.

Step 4: Forming the Dough

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined and a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender and cakey rather than tough.

Step 5: Shaping and Baking the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dollops of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Then, press each cookie down gently with the back of a drinking glass until about 1/4 inch thick. If the glass sticks, just grease it lightly with a bit of oil or butter. Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, or until you see a subtle golden hue around the edges. Transfer them to a cooling rack so they can set perfectly.

Step 6: Making the Eggnog Frosting

While your cookies cool, whip up the frosting. Using an electric mixer, blend the softened butter, powdered sugar, eggnog, and vanilla until you get a fluffy, spreadable frosting. This luscious layer will elevate your cookies to true holiday indulgence.

Step 7: Frosting and Topping the Cookies

Once the cookies are fully cool, spread a generous amount of eggnog frosting atop each one. Then mix together nutmeg and cinnamon for your spiced topping and sprinkle it evenly over the frosting. This final touch adds both flavor and festive charm.

How to Serve Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting and Spiced Topping Recipe

Garnishes

Consider adding a sprinkle of finely grated nutmeg or even a dusting of powdered sugar to enhance presentation and add an extra hint of spice that makes each cookie look as festive as it tastes.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee, spiced chai tea, or a glass of classic eggnog. The creamy beverages complement the softness and spices in the cookies perfectly, creating a cozy treat for any holiday gathering.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your cookies on a decorative holiday plate or tiered tray, surrounding them with fresh evergreen sprigs, cranberries, or cinnamon sticks for an inviting display. You could also place each cookie in a festive cupcake liner or wrap them individually with a ribbon to gift as a sweet homemade treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover eggnog cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This preserves their soft texture and keeps the frosting fresh, so every bite tastes just baked.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead of time, you can freeze these cookies unfrosted for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw completely before frosting to maintain that beautiful, creamy topping.

Reheating

Gently warm cookies in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds if you prefer them slightly soft and fresh-tasting. Just be careful not to overheat or it may melt the frosting too much.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought eggnog or should I make my own?

Store-bought eggnog works wonderfully for this recipe and adds the iconic flavor you’re craving, but homemade eggnog gives it a fresher, more personalized touch if you want to customize your spices.

What if I don’t have nutmeg or cinnamon?

While those spices are traditional, you can experiment with other warming spices like allspice or pumpkin pie spice to keep the festive vibe going.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend, just ensure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

How thick should I press the cookies before baking?

About 1/4 inch thick is perfect. Pressing the dough helps the cookies bake evenly and get that lovely cakey texture we all love.

Is it okay to frost warm cookies?

It’s best to wait until the cookies have fully cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting and Spiced Topping Recipe that makes holiday baking even more special. These tender, flavorful cookies will fill your kitchen with the scents of the season and bring happiness to anyone lucky enough to enjoy them. So go ahead and bake a batch — your taste buds and your friends will thank you!

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