Eggnog Cookies

If you love the cozy, festive flavors of eggnog but want to enjoy them in a fun and portable way, these Eggnog Cookies are the perfect treat for you! Soft, flavorful, and bursting with that classic holiday spice, these cookies bring all the warmth of eggnog into every bite. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, a winter gathering, or just because you crave something special, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite. Plus, they’re made with simple ingredients and are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for bakers of all levels.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Eggnog is a beloved holiday beverage with a rich history and comforting taste, but turning that into a cookie is an inspired idea that combines tradition with convenience. These cookies are soft and cakey with just the right amount of spice from nutmeg and cinnamon. They’re lightly sweetened with a touch of vanilla and almond extract, enhancing the eggnog flavor without overpowering the palate.

What makes this recipe stand out is how well it translates the creamy, spiced notes of eggnog into a delightful cookie form. They’re perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday dessert trays, or a cozy night by the fire with a warm drink. Plus, the recipe avoids any ingredients that might be off-limits for those with dietary restrictions, using simple pantry staples and a dairy alternative to keep everything friendly for a wide range of preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional but recommended for depth of flavor)
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
• ½ cup eggnog (use a plant-based eggnog for a dairy alternative)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

How To Make Eggnog Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to ensure the cookies don’t stick and bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is key for creating a tender texture.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Extracts

Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until fully incorporated. The almond extract adds a lovely nutty undertone that complements the eggnog flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. These spices provide the signature warmth of eggnog.

Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with the eggnog, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined — overmixing can make the cookies tough.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look slightly cracked. The cookies will still be soft when warm but will firm up as they cool.

Step 8: Cool and Optional Dusting

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a festive touch, if desired.

Expert Tips

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps everything blend smoothly and ensures an even texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing can develop gluten and make cookies tough instead of soft and tender.
• Adjust spices to taste: If you prefer a stronger eggnog flavor, add a bit more nutmeg or cinnamon, but be careful not to overpower the cookie.
• Chill the dough for thicker cookies: If you want thicker, chewier cookies, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Try plant-based eggnog: For a dairy-free option, use almond or coconut milk eggnog alternatives—they work beautifully here.
• Don’t skip the almond extract: It’s subtle but adds a unique depth that really brings out the eggnog flavor.

Variations and Customizations

• Eggnog Cookie Bars: Press the dough into a baking pan and bake as bars for a shareable dessert.
• Frosted Eggnog Cookies: Top cooled cookies with cream cheese frosting spiked with a little nutmeg or rum extract.
• Chocolate Chip Eggnog Cookies: Stir in ½ cup mini chocolate chips for a fun twist.
• Spiced Eggnog Cookies: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom for additional festive spice notes.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those with gluten sensitivities.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your eggnog cookies fresh and soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that fresh-baked softness.

FAQ

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Absolutely! Replace the butter with a vegan butter substitute and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) instead of the egg. Use plant-based eggnog to keep the flavors authentic without dairy.

Can I use regular milk instead of eggnog?

Regular milk lacks the spices and richness of eggnog, but you can use milk combined with a pinch of nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to mimic the flavor if you don’t have eggnog on hand.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

If almond extract isn’t available, you can omit it or add a tiny bit more vanilla extract. The cookies will still be delicious but slightly less complex in flavor.

Are these cookies soft or crunchy?

These Eggnog Cookies are best enjoyed soft and cakey. If you prefer a crunchier texture, bake them a couple of minutes longer, but watch carefully to avoid overbaking.

Conclusion

Eggnog Cookies are a delightful way to capture the festive spirit of the holidays in a soft, spiced treat that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo. With warm notes of nutmeg, cinnamon, and a hint of almond, these cookies bring the nostalgic flavors of eggnog into cookie form without any fuss. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or looking for a cozy dessert to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and sure to become a seasonal staple in your kitchen. Give them a try this holiday season — your taste buds will thank you!