Eggnog Cookies: Deliciously Soft Treats for the Holidays

Name: Eggnog Cookies: Deliciously Soft Treats for the Holidays
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup eggnog; 1/2 cup white chocolate chips; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

June 2, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something truly magical about holiday baking, isn’t there? The scent of spices wafting through the kitchen, the joy of sharing treats with loved ones—it just warms my heart! One of my absolute favorite festive recipes is for eggnog cookies. These delightful cookies capture the creamy, spiced flavor of traditional eggnog, all wrapped up in a soft, chewy texture that’s simply irresistible. They’ve become a cherished family tradition in my home, with everyone eagerly awaiting the first batch each December. Trust me, once you try these eggnog cookies, they’ll be a staple in your holiday baking lineup too!

Delicious eggnog cookies

Ingredients List

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your cookies, giving them structure and a lovely chewy texture.
1 teaspoon baking powder: This helps the cookies rise and become fluffy as they bake.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: A little boost for the cookies, ensuring they spread just right without becoming too dense.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Don’t skip this! It enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: The star of the show! It adds that cozy, holiday spice flavor that’s synonymous with eggnog.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Another warm spice that complements the nutmeg beautifully and adds depth to the cookies.
1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming. This gives your cookies that melt-in-your-mouth quality!
1 cup granulated sugar: This provides sweetness and helps create a lovely crisp edge on the cookies.
1 cup packed brown sugar: Using brown sugar adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor that elevates these cookies.
2 large eggs: Eggs bind everything together and contribute to the chewy texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds a warm, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the spices.
1 cup eggnog: The star ingredient! It infuses each cookie with its creamy, spiced goodness.
1/2 cup white chocolate chips: These add sweet, creamy bursts of flavor in every bite.
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): For a delightful crunch! Just be sure to chop them finely if you’re adding them in.

How to Prepare Eggnog Cookies

Now, let’s get into the fun part—baking these delicious eggnog cookies! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delightful batch ready to share in no time.

Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because a properly heated oven ensures even baking. While that’s warming up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This little trick helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon. Each ingredient plays a vital role: the baking powder and baking soda provide lift, while the spices offer that cozy, festive flavor we adore. Make sure everything is well combined—this will create an even texture in your cookies.

Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer. You’re aiming for a texture that’s pale and airy. This step is key to achieving those soft, chewy cookies we love!

Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps incorporate air, making your cookies light. After the eggs, stir in the vanilla extract and then the eggnog. The eggnog is what makes these cookies uniquely festive—don’t skimp on it!

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cookies to stay soft and tender, not tough!

Add Mix-Ins

Now for the fun part—fold in the white chocolate chips and, if you’re using them, the chopped walnuts. Gently mix until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. This will keep your cookies from becoming overly compacted while maintaining that perfect chewy texture.

Shape and Bake

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This is important because they will spread while baking! Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. You’ll know they’re done when they look set but still soft in the center.

Cooling Period

Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This helps them firm up a bit. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential for achieving that perfect texture—if you skip it, they might end up too soft! And just like that, your eggnog cookies are ready to be enjoyed!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional data for each eggnog cookie. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But they’ll give you a good idea of what to expect when indulging in these festive treats:

Calories: 150
Sugar: 10g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 50mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 2g

These cookies are a delightful treat to enjoy during the holiday season without feeling too guilty. Just remember to savor every bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of eggnog?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, there are plenty of delicious alternatives available, like almond milk eggnog or coconut-based eggnog. Just keep in mind that different types of eggnog can alter the flavor slightly, but they’ll still bring that festive spirit to your cookies. You might find a nutty undertone with almond eggnog or a tropical hint with coconut—either way, it’ll be a fun twist!

What can I substitute for white chocolate chips?

If white chocolate isn’t your thing, no worries! You can easily swap them out for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor. Or, if you want to keep it classic, semi-sweet chocolate chips work wonders too. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding chopped nuts like pecans or macadamia nuts for a delightful crunch. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative!

How do I store my cookies?

To keep your eggnog cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay yummy for up to a week! If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll last for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them out at room temperature—no need to reheat unless you want that fresh-baked feel!

Why You’ll Love These Eggnog Cookies

Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have these cookies ready in no time!
Festively delicious: The rich flavors of eggnog and warm spices create a holiday treat that everyone will adore.
Perfect for holiday gatherings: These cookies are sure to impress at any festive celebration or cookie swap.
Soft and chewy texture: Each bite offers a delightful balance of chewiness and flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

Tips for Success

Before you dive into making these delightful eggnog cookies, here are some pro tips to ensure you achieve cookie perfection every time!

Measure Flour Accurately: The key to perfectly textured cookies is measuring your flour correctly. I always recommend using the spoon-and-level method. Scoop the flour into your measuring cup with a spoon, then level it off with a knife. This prevents packing, which can lead to dense cookies.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This helps them blend more easily, creating a smooth batter that incorporates air for fluffiness. Aim for about 70°F (21°C) for the best results!
Chill the Dough (if needed): If your kitchen is warm or if you notice the dough is too soft, give it a quick chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and prevents excessive spreading.
Use Quality Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also promotes even baking. If you don’t have parchment, silicone baking mats are a great alternative!
Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Every oven is different, so check your cookies a minute or two before the suggested baking time. They should be lightly golden around the edges and still soft in the center when you take them out. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool!
Experiment with Mix-Ins: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your add-ins! Whether you swap white chocolate for dark or throw in some dried cranberries for a tart twist, feel free to customize these cookies to your taste. Just remember not to overload the dough—keep it balanced!
Storing for Freshness: To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, always store them in an airtight container. You can also add a slice of bread to the container; it helps maintain moisture and keeps the cookies soft!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make the most scrumptious eggnog cookies ever. Happy baking!

Variations on Eggnog Cookies

While the classic eggnog cookie is already a delightful treat, there’s a whole world of variations waiting for you to explore! Here are some fun and festive twists to make your eggnog cookies even more exciting:

Spiced Eggnog Cookies: For an extra kick of holiday flavor, consider adding 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger to the dry ingredients. These spices will complement the nutmeg and cinnamon beautifully, creating a warm, spicy aroma that’s simply irresistible.
Chocolate Lovers: If you’re a fan of chocolate, swap out the white chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips or semi-sweet chocolate chips. The rich, deep flavor of the chocolate pairs wonderfully with the eggnog, making for a decadent treat.
Dried Fruit Delight: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots into the dough for a burst of fruity goodness. This not only adds flavor but also a lovely chewiness that contrasts with the soft cookie texture.
Nutty Variation: For a delightful crunch, increase the chopped walnuts to 1 cup or try using pecans or hazelnuts. Toasting the nuts beforehand will enhance their flavor and add an extra layer of deliciousness!
Eggnog Frosting: Take these cookies to the next level by frosting them with a simple eggnog-flavored cream cheese frosting. Just mix together 4 oz. cream cheese, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and a splash of eggnog until smooth and creamy. Spread it on cooled cookies for a decadent finish!
Mini Eggnog Cookies: For a fun presentation, use a mini cookie scoop to make bite-sized versions of these cookies. They’re perfect for holiday parties or cookie trays, allowing everyone to enjoy a little taste without overindulging!

Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your perfect eggnog cookie. The holiday season is all about experimenting and having fun in the kitchen, so let your creativity shine!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your eggnog cookies fresh and delicious, it’s essential to store them properly. Once your cookies have completely cooled on the wire rack, transfer them to an airtight container. I usually layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking, which is an absolute lifesaver!

These cookies will stay delightful at room temperature for up to a week, but I can’t guarantee they’ll last that long—everyone loves them so much! If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just place the cookies in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper, and they’ll last for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

If you prefer your cookies warm and soft, here’s my go-to tip: pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving. This quick reheating brings back that fresh-baked goodness, making them taste like they just came out of the oven! Just be careful not to overheat them, or you might end up with a cookie that’s more chewy than soft. Enjoy your delicious eggnog cookies any time you crave a festive treat!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.