Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

These Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting are a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. With their soft, tender texture and rich eggnog flavor, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. The creamy frosting adds an extra layer of indulgence, making them perfect for festive occasions. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply craving a sweet treat, these cookies will impress eggnog lovers and cookie enthusiasts alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of nutmeg and eggnog creates a warm, cozy flavor profile that is synonymous with the holiday season.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are great for various occasions, from holiday parties to cozy family gatherings.
• Frosting Delight: A thick layer of creamy eggnog frosting elevates these cookies, ensuring each bite is rich and satisfying.
• Perfectly Soft Texture: The cookies have a tender crumb that melts in your mouth, making them irresistible.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together, ensuring a light texture.
• Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution while baking, leading to perfectly cooked cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy, allowing for effortless removal of cookies.

Ingredients

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)
• 2 large egg yolks (discard the whites)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)
• 1/3 cup eggnog (80 ml)

For the Eggnog Frosting

• 2/3 cup unsalted butter (151 grams) (salted works too, omit salt if using salted butter)
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar (330-440 grams)
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (alcohol-free)
• 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 the Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
* Flour
* Nutmeg
* Cinnamon
* Baking soda
* Salt

This mixture will help ensure even distribution of flavors in your dough.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together:
* Butter
* Granulated sugar
* Brown sugar

Mix until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your cookies.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Add:
* Egg yolks
* Vanilla extract
* Eggnog

Mix until fully combined. The egg yolks provide richness while the eggnog adds moisture.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave space between each cookie as they will spread. Bake for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 7: Cool Cookies

Remove from the oven and allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 8: Make Eggnog Frosting

In a mixing bowl, cream together:
* Butter
Add powdered sugar gradually until well incorporated. Then mix in:
* Nutmeg
* Vanilla extract
Adjust consistency with eggnog as needed.

Step 9: Frost Cookies

Once cookies are completely cool, generously frost each cookie with your eggnog frosting. Enjoy!

How to Serve Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

Eggnog cookies with eggnog frosting are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a festive gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies can add a special touch to your occasion.

Cookie Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a festive platter alongside other holiday treats. This creates a beautiful display that will entice your guests.

Hot Beverage Pairing

• Serve these cookies with hot beverages like cocoa or spiced tea. The warm drinks complement the flavors of the cookies perfectly.

Gift Packaging

• Package the cookies in decorative bags or boxes as gifts for friends and family. This thoughtful gesture is sure to be appreciated during the holiday season.

Dessert Table Addition

• Include these cookies on a dessert table during holiday parties. Their unique flavor will stand out among traditional desserts.

Ice Cream Topping

• Crumble the cookies over vanilla or eggnog-flavored ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. This adds a delightful crunch and enhances the overall flavor.

How to Perfect Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

To make your eggnog cookies even better, consider these helpful tips that will ensure they turn out perfect every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined helps keep the cookies soft and tender.
• Chill the dough if needed: If your dough feels too sticky, chilling it for 30 minutes can help make it easier to handle.
• Watch baking times closely: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake to prevent them from becoming too dry; they should be lightly golden around the edges.
• Store properly: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust nutmeg and cinnamon levels according to your taste preference for a more personalized flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

Pairing side dishes with eggnog cookies can enhance their flavors and create a more rounded dessert experience. Consider these delicious options:

1. Gingerbread Muffins: These spiced muffins add warmth and complement the holiday spirit.
2. Pecan Pie Bars: Sweet and nutty, these bars provide a rich contrast to the lightness of the cookies.
3. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink that pairs well with desserts, enhancing their flavors.
4. Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch balances out the sweetness of the eggnog cookies beautifully.
5. Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes: These moist cupcakes echo holiday flavors and make for a delightful pairing.
6. Cranberry Orange Scones: Tart cranberries and sweet orange zest make these scones an excellent companion to your cookie platter.
7. Cheesecake Bites: Rich cheesecake bites provide creamy decadence that contrasts nicely with cookie textures.
8. Holiday Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances out sweeter treats on your dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making eggnog cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can ruin the fun. Here are some to watch out for:

• Using cold butter – Cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Always ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best texture.
• Skipping the chilling time – Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking. Don’t skip this step; it’s vital for achieving soft, thick cookies.
• Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can make cookies tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for tender results.
• Not measuring flour correctly – Incorrect flour measurement can affect texture. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method for accuracy.
• Ignoring oven temperature accuracy – An inaccurate oven can lead to uneven baking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure proper temperature settings.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store eggnog cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

• Freeze cookies before adding frosting for better preservation; they will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 10 seconds until warm, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop – Place cookies in a skillet over low heat and cover until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making eggnog cookies with eggnog frosting:

Can I use other spices in my eggnog cookies?

You can certainly experiment! Consider adding ginger or cloves for a unique twist on traditional flavors.

How do I make my eggnog frosting thicker?

If your eggnog frosting is too thin, gradually add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Are these eggnog cookies suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! These cookies make great gifts during the holiday season when packaged nicely in festive boxes.

Can I substitute chicken broth instead of using eggnog?

While broth isn’t a direct substitute for flavor, you can adjust your recipe with plant-based alternatives like almond milk mixed with nutmeg.

Final Thoughts

These eggnog cookies with eggnog frosting are not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize them by adding different spices or even incorporating chocolate chips. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or craving a sweet treat, these cookies will surely delight everyone!