Eggnog Cookies

These eggnog cookies are soft, spiced, and topped with a creamy eggnog frosting that makes them perfect for the holiday season. I love how they bring all the warm flavors of eggnog into a cookie form, making them a festive treat to share.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like how these cookies combine the richness of butter and eggnog with the warm spices of nutmeg and cinnamon. The frosting adds an extra layer of sweetness and flavor that makes them irresistible. I enjoy making them during the holidays because they feel special yet are simple to prepare.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

3/4 cup butter softened
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 egg yolks
1/2 cup eggnog
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 1/4 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt

Eggnog Frosting
1/2 cup butter softened
3 cups powdered sugar
4 Tablespoons eggnog add more if needed
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

1. I start by preheating my oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, I cream together the butter, sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
3. I add the egg yolks, eggnog, and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
4. In another bowl, I whisk the flour, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
5. I slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until combined.
6. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, I drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. I bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, just until the edges are lightly golden. Then I let them cool completely.
8. For the frosting, I beat the butter until creamy, then add powdered sugar, eggnog, nutmeg, and cinnamon until smooth.
9. Once the cookies are cool, I spread frosting on top and sprinkle with extra nutmeg if I like.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies. The prep time takes around 15 minutes, baking time is 12 minutes, and cooling and frosting take another 20 minutes, so I usually plan for about 45 minutes total.

Variations

I sometimes add a pinch of cloves for a deeper spiced flavor. If I want a softer cookie, I slightly underbake them so they stay chewy. For decoration, I like to dust the frosted cookies with extra cinnamon sugar or even drizzle with white chocolate for a festive touch.

Storage/Reheating

I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If I want them to last longer, I refrigerate them for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 2 months; I just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper. I let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, I like to bake them a day in advance and frost them the next day to keep the topping fresh.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, I freeze the dough in scoops on a tray, then transfer them to a bag. I bake straight from frozen, just adding a couple of minutes to the bake time.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No, I don’t chill this dough, but if I want slightly thicker cookies, I sometimes chill it for 30 minutes.

Can I use store-bought frosting instead?

Yes, but I prefer making the eggnog frosting because it enhances the flavor.

What type of eggnog works best?

I like using full-fat traditional eggnog because it gives a richer taste, but low-fat works too.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Yes, I sometimes mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture.

How do I keep the frosting from being too runny?

I add powdered sugar a little at a time until it thickens, or chill it briefly before spreading.

Can I make these cookies without eggnog?

I can substitute with heavy cream and a bit of nutmeg, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

I take them out when the edges are lightly golden; they will continue to set as they cool.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, I often double it when baking for parties, and it works just as well.

Conclusion

I love how these eggnog cookies capture the essence of the holiday season in every bite. With their soft texture, spiced flavor, and creamy frosting, they’re always a hit at gatherings. This recipe is simple to follow, and the cookies store well, making them perfect for sharing or enjoying at home.

Print