Eggnog Snickerdoodles

These Eggnog Snickerdoodles are the perfect holiday treat, blending the classic flavors of eggnog with the beloved texture of snickerdoodle cookies. Soft and chewy with a delightful crunch at the edges, these cookies capture the essence of festive baking. With no chilling required for the dough, they are an easy addition to your holiday cookie platter or a cozy dessert to enjoy by the fire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: No need to chill the dough, making this a simple recipe to whip up.
• Festive Flavor: The warm spices and creamy notes deliver that classic holiday taste.
• Perfect Texture: Enjoy a soft interior with a satisfying crunch on the outside.
• Versatile Treat: Great for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or cozy nights at home.
• Kid-Friendly: An enjoyable baking project to do with little ones during the holidays.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Eggnog Snickerdoodles, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having these on hand will streamline your baking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a creamy butter-sugar mixture quickly, saving you time and effort.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes, which leads to even baking and presentation.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes clean-up easier after baking.

Ingredients

These eggnog snickerdoodles are soft and chewy with a delicious eggnog flavor. Pillowy soft in the middle with a delicious crunch around the edges just like your favorite snickerdoodles. There’s no need to chill the dough, so it’s a simple Christmas cookie recipe that truly tastes like the holidays.

For the Cookies

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (375 grams) (use up to 3 1/4 cup for thicker cookies)
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (226 grams) (softened, but not starting to melt – it should still be slightly firm to the touch)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (300 grams)
• 1 large egg
• 2 large egg yolks (in addition to the 1 large egg)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (alcohol-free)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Coating

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67 grams)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

How to Make Eggnog Snickerdoodles

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together 3 cups flour, cream of tartar, 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl:
1. Beat together 1 cup unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups sugar until creamed.
2. Turn off the mixer and scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in:
1. 1 large egg
2. 2 additional egg yolks
3. Both measurements of vanilla extract. Mix until almost creamy with no visible pieces of egg.

Step 5: Combine with Dry Ingredients

Slowly mix in dry ingredients into the butter mixture:
* Do this about half at a time while mixing on low speed.
* If necessary, add more flour if dough is too sticky.

Step 6: Prepare Coating Mixture

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together 1/3 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg. Pour onto a small plate.

Step 7: Shape Cookies

Using about 1.5 tablespoons of dough each:
* Scoop dough into balls using a medium cookie scoop.
* Roll each ball in the sugar-nutmeg mixture.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Place cookie dough balls about 2 inches apart on lined cookie sheets:
* Bake one sheet at a time for about 9–12 minutes until tops look just set.

Step 9: Cool Cookies

Let cookies cool for at least 10 minutes on cookie sheets before transferring them to wire racks if desired. Enjoy your festive Eggnog Snickerdoodles!

How to Serve Eggnog Snickerdoodles

These delightful eggnog snickerdoodles are perfect for any holiday gathering or cozy night in. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience with these festive cookies.

With a Warm Beverage

• Hot Chocolate: Pair the cookies with a rich and creamy hot chocolate for a sweet treat.
• Cinnamon Tea: Enjoy them alongside a cup of cinnamon-infused tea for a comforting combination.

As Dessert Bites

• Mini Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to sandwich your favorite ice cream flavor for a fun twist.
• Cookie Platter: Serve on a platter with other holiday cookies for an attractive dessert spread.

Gift-Worthy Treats

• Cookie Jars: Pack fresh eggnog snickerdoodles in decorative jars as gifts for friends and family.
• Party Favors: Wrap individual cookies in clear bags tied with festive ribbons for an easy party favor.

How to Perfect Eggnog Snickerdoodles

To ensure your eggnog snickerdoodles come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Use of Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh eggs and high-quality butter enhances the flavor of your cookies.
• Bold Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon flour into measuring cups instead of scooping to avoid dense cookies.
• Bold Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; remove them when they’re just set to maintain softness.
• Bold Avoid Overmixing Dough: Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Bold Cool on the Sheet: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks for optimal texture.

Best Side Dishes for Eggnog Snickerdoodles

Eggnog snickerdoodles pair well with several side dishes that complement their warm flavors. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider provides a fruity contrast that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can offer a savory counterpoint to the sweet flavors of the snickerdoodles.
3. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit salad adds brightness and freshness, making it a refreshing side dish.
4. Pumpkin Soup: The creamy texture and spices in pumpkin soup match wonderfully with the cookie’s flavor profile.
5. Roasted Nuts: A bowl of mixed roasted nuts adds crunch and salty richness that pairs well with sweet treats.
6. Caramel Dipping Sauce: Serve warm caramel sauce alongside for dipping, creating an indulgent experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Eggnog Snickerdoodles can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect cookies.

• Bold Ingredients Measurement: Using incorrect measurements can ruin the texture of your cookies. Always measure flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife for accuracy.

• Bold Overmixing Dough: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined, especially when incorporating dry ingredients to maintain that soft texture.

• Bold Insufficient Baking Time: Not baking long enough may result in doughy centers. Keep an eye on the cookies; they should look set and slightly golden at the edges when done.

• Bold Skipping Sugar Coating: Neglecting the sugar and nutmeg coating means missing out on that signature snickerdoodle flavor. Make sure to roll each dough ball in the mixture for a delicious finish.

• Bold Not Preheating Oven: Baking without preheating can affect how the cookies rise and spread. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.

• Bold Using Cold Butter: Starting with cold butter can lead to a dense texture. Ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the right consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Eggnog Snickerdoodles

• Freeze in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
• Layer parchment paper between cookies to keep them from sticking together.

Reheating Eggnog Snickerdoodles

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds until warmed through; avoid overheating as this can make them tough.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, warming for a minute or two while covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Eggnog Snickerdoodles that might help you out!

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for Eggnog Snickerdoodles?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly, making them denser.

How do I avoid dry Eggnog Snickerdoodles?

Ensure that you don’t overbake them and measure your ingredients accurately. Softened butter helps keep them moist as well.

What is the best way to store leftover Eggnog Snickerdoodles?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you want them to last longer.

Can I add chocolate chips to my Eggnog Snickerdoodles?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips make a delightful addition and complement the eggnog flavor well.

How long does it take to make Eggnog Snickerdoodles from start to finish?

The total time is about 40 minutes, including prep and baking time. It’s quick and perfect for holiday gatherings!

Final Thoughts

These Eggnog Snickerdoodles are not only easy to make but also capture the essence of holiday flavors in every bite. Their soft center and crunchy edges offer a delightful texture that everyone will love. Feel free to customize these cookies by adding nuts or experimenting with spices like cinnamon or ginger for extra warmth!