Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Holiday Frosting Recipe

If you’re dreaming of cozy holiday baking with a twist of classic festive flavors, you have to try this Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Holiday Frosting Recipe. Imagine soft, cake-like cookies infused with warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, all crowned with a rich, luscious eggnog frosting that tastes just like the creamy holiday drink you adore. These cookies are an absolute must-bake during the festive season and make every bite feel like a comforting hug. Whether you’re gifting them or enjoying a quiet winter afternoon, they bring joy and warmth in every morsel.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but essential, each bringing its own magic: the spices create a heartwarming aroma, the butter and sugars build softness and sweetness, and the eggnog and extracts add that signature holiday flavor that makes these cookies stand out.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (283g): The foundation of your cookies, providing structure and softness.
• 2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a light, tender texture.
• 1⁄2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1⁄2 tsp ground nutmeg, plus more for topping: Adds that unmistakable warming spice that screams holiday.
• 1⁄2 tsp ground cinnamon: Complements the nutmeg with a cozy, sweet earthiness.
• 3⁄4 cup unsalted butter (170g): For a rich, decadent mouthfeel and softness.
• 1⁄2 cup granulated sugar (100g): Provides sweetness and helps with that perfect cookie color.
• 1⁄2 cup packed light-brown sugar (100g): Adds moisture and a hint of caramel depth.
• 2 large egg yolks: Make these cookies tender and rich.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Amplifies all the sweet flavors naturally.
• 1⁄2 tsp rum extract: Brings authentic holiday flavor without the alcohol.
• 1⁄2 cup eggnog (not low fat): The star ingredient that makes these cookies truly festive and creamy.

How to Make Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Holiday Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon in a bowl. This ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed, so every cookie has that perfect festive flavor and texture.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

Using an electric stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, whip the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until pale and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture everyone will love.

Step 3: Blend in the Wet Ingredients

Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing just until combined each time. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, rum extract, and eggnog. This creates a gorgeous creamy base that infuses the dough with rich holiday flavors.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Turn your mixer to low speed and slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix just until everything comes together—a dough that’s balanced, soft, and ready to scoop.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Scoop the dough by heaping tablespoonfuls onto a Silpat or parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing each cookie about 2 inches apart to allow for gentle spreading. Bake in a preheated 350°F (180°C) oven for 11 to 13 minutes until the edges are just set but the centers remain tender. Let the cookies rest on the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Creamy Holiday Frosting

For the frosting, whip the butter until very pale and fluffy. Add the rum extract and 3 tablespoons of eggnog, then mix in the powdered sugar gradually. Add extra eggnog as needed to reach your desired creamy spreadable consistency. Frost your cooled cookies generously and sprinkle them lightly with extra nutmeg to finish that perfect seasonal touch.

How to Serve Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Holiday Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

A dusting of fresh nutmeg on top of the creamy frosting instantly elevates these cookies, adding visual charm and a little extra spice. You can also try a few festive sprinkles or a tiny drizzle of caramel for a special touch that guests will love.

Side Dishes

These soft eggnog cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of chai tea, a glass of spiced cider, or even a mug of hot cocoa. Their rich, spicy flavor complements warm beverages wonderfully, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.

Creative Ways to Present

Place the cookies on a decorative holiday platter with sprigs of fresh pine or holly for a festive centerpiece. You could also stack them in clear cellophane bags tied with holiday ribbons to give as charming homemade gifts that everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, keep the Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Holiday Frosting Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay soft and fresh for up to 3 days—perfect if you want to prep ahead for a party or save some for later treats.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag once solid. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before frosting to keep that creamy texture intact.

Reheating

If you prefer your cookies slightly warm, pop them in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving frosted cookies as this can melt the frosting and change the texture.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat eggnog in this recipe?

While you can use low-fat eggnog, the cookies and frosting will be less rich and creamy. Full-fat eggnog provides that signature indulgent texture and flavor the recipe was designed for.

What if I don’t have rum extract?

If you’re out of rum extract, a splash of vanilla extract will work in a pinch. The rum extract adds a distinct warmth, but vanilla will keep your cookies delicious and festive.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. The texture may be slightly different but still wonderfully soft.

How long do the cookies stay fresh after frosting?

The Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Holiday Frosting Recipe can stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Is there a way to make these cookies thicker?

Yes, you can add 2 extra tablespoons of flour to the dough to yield thicker cookies. Just be careful not to add too much or they may lose their tender softness.

Final Thoughts

This Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Holiday Frosting Recipe is truly a holiday treasure that brings warmth and festive joy straight from your oven. These tender, spicy cookies with their rich, fluffy frosting are guaranteed to become a beloved tradition in your baking repertoire. I encourage you to grab your mixing bowls and whip up a batch—you’ll find they make the perfect companion for your holiday celebrations and coziness all season long.

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