As the holiday season approaches, my kitchen transforms into a fragrant wonderland of spices and sweetness. There’s something undeniably special about creating Frosted Holiday Eggnog Cookies, where the cozy notes of nutmeg and cinnamon come together to evoke cherished memories. These delightful cookies, draped in creamy eggnog frosting, not only elevate any festive gathering but also whisk you away from the monotony of fast food with comforting homemade goodness. Whip them up in no time and watch them disappear from the platter—who knew warm, satisfying treats could be this easy? Are you ready to fill your home with the cheerful spirit of the holidays and treat yourself to these delightful delights?
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Festive Flavors: The enchanting blend of nutmeg, cinnamon, and spiced rum will undoubtedly transport you to joyful holiday memories.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect for even novice bakers craving a homemade treat!
Gorgeous Presentation: The rich eggnog frosting adds a beautiful finishing touch, making these cookies ideal for gatherings or as a thoughtful gift.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Everyone loves a soft, frosted cookie! Your friends and family will be begging for the recipe. If you love cookies, don’t forget to check out my Bake Cookies Cream for a delicious twist!
Quick to Prepare: With a chilled dough that’s ready in just 2 hours, you can whip these treats up quickly and enjoy them fresh from the oven.
Warm Aroma: As they bake, your kitchen will fill with a cozy scent that’s guaranteed to create comforting holiday vibes.
Frosted Holiday Eggnog Cookie Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Butter (2 1/2 sticks, room temperature) – Provides a rich and soft texture, making these cookies irresistible.
- Brown Sugar (1 cup, packed) – Adds sweetness and moisture with a delightful caramel hint.
- Egg Yolks (4 large) – Acts as a rich binder to hold the cookies together.
- Eggnog (1/4 cup) – Infuses the cookies with classic eggnog flavor and moisture.
- Spiced Rum (1 tablespoon) or Rum Extract (1 teaspoon) – Elevates the flavor profile with festive warmth; omit for a non-alcoholic version.
- All-Purpose Flour (3 cups) – Forms the structure of the cookies; critical for texture.
- Baking Powder (1 teaspoon) – Helps the cookies rise for a light, fluffy texture.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon) – Balances sweetness and enhances other flavors.
- Nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground) – Brings a warm, spiced note typical of holiday baking.
- Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon) – Offers comforting warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Allspice (Pinch) – Contributes a unique complexity that complements the eggnog taste.
For the Frosting
- Butter (6 tablespoons, room temperature) – Essential for a creamy texture in the frosting.
- Confectioner’s Sugar (2 1/4 cups) – Sweetens the frosting and creates a smooth finish.
- Spiced Rum (1 1/2 teaspoons) or Rum Extract (1/4 teaspoon) – Adds that signature flavor; feel free to leave it out for a non-alcoholic treat.
- Eggnog (2 tablespoons) – Lends richness and eggnog flavor to the frosting.
- Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon, freshly grated) – Boosts the holiday essence and pairs beautifully with the frosting.
- Cinnamon (Pinch) – Deepens the overall warmth and flavor; no substitutions recommended.
Other Considerations
- Flour for counter – Dust your surface to prevent sticking while rolling out the dough.
- Holiday Sprinkles – Optional for that festive, decorative touch!
Let the spirit of the holidays and the taste of these frosted holiday eggnog cookies fill your home!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Frosted Holiday Eggnog Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a stand mixer, beat 2 1/2 sticks of room temperature butter on medium speed until pale and creamy, approximately 2 minutes. Gradually add 1 cup of packed brown sugar, continuing to beat for an additional minute until fluffy. Add in 4 large egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then blend in 1/4 cup of eggnog and 1 tablespoon of spiced rum until just combined.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of allspice. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in the mixer bowl. Blend on low speed until combined, being careful not to overmix, which will keep your Frosted Holiday Eggnog Cookies tender.
Step 3: Chill Dough
Once your dough is well mixed, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling step helps flavors to meld and makes the dough easier to roll out later. As the dough firms up, you’ll find that it yields perfectly shaped holiday cookies after baking.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
While the dough chills, prepare the luscious eggnog frosting. In a mixing bowl, cream together 6 tablespoons of room temperature butter and 2 1/4 cups of confectioner’s sugar until smooth and fluffy. Mix in 1 1/2 teaspoons of spiced rum, 2 tablespoons of eggnog, 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg, and a pinch of cinnamon until creamy and well combined. Set aside for later.
Step 5: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F, ensuring that the heating element is set to the upper third of the oven. This temperature creates the perfect environment for baking your Frosted Holiday Eggnog Cookies to a light golden brown while ensuring they stay soft and tender inside.
Step 6: Cut and Bake Cookies
Once the dough has chilled, roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use festive cookie cutters to shape your cookies, then place them on parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them about an inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly browned underneath but still soft to the touch.
Step 7: Cool and Frost
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on wire racks for about 10 minutes. Once cooled, frost each cookie generously with the creamy eggnog frosting, creating a delightful swirl or pattern as you spread. If desired, sprinkle holiday sprinkles on top while the frosting is still wet for a festive touch.
Tips for the Best Frosted Holiday Eggnog Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature to achieve a creamy texture when mixed, which helps your cookies stay soft.
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Don’t Overmix: After adding the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, detracting from the soft, tender texture you want in your Frosted Holiday Eggnog Cookies.
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Chill Thoroughly: Allow the dough to chill for at least 2 hours. This step not only helps the flavors develop but also makes it easier to roll and shape your cookies.
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Check Doneness: Bake until lightly browned underneath—cookies will continue to firm up as they cool. Soft cookies will remain tender after cooling.
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Frost While Warm: Frost the cookies while they are still slightly warm, so the delicious eggnog frosting spreads easily and clings beautifully to the cookie.
Frosted Holiday Eggnog Cookies Variations
Ready to put your personal twist on these delightful treats? Customize your frosted holiday eggnog cookies and delight your family with new flavors and textures!
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Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil and use non-dairy eggnog for a lactose-free version that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
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Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices, such as ginger or cardamom, for a unique twist that brings an exciting new flavor profile.
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Nut-Free: If you’re catering to nut allergies, simply omit any nutmeg and allspice. You can still achieve deliciousness with just cinnamon!
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Double the Frosting: Feel like indulging a bit more? Double the frosting recipe! A thicker layer of creamy goodness always makes cookies more irresistible.
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Add Chocolate: For a delightful pairing, mix in some chocolate chips to the cookie dough. The chocolate complements the festive flavors beautifully.
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Mini Cookie Bites: Create bite-sized versions by rolling the dough into smaller balls. A fun way to serve up these treats for parties!
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Drizzle with Caramel: For added sweetness, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top of the frosted cookies. This creates an irresistible gooey topping everyone will adore.
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Gingerbread Twist: Incorporate molasses and replace some of the spices to give your cookies a gingerbread flavor, perfect for the holidays. If you’re a fan of classic ginger snaps, this variation is a must-try!
No matter which variation you choose, your frosted holiday eggnog cookies will be a hit! And don’t forget to check out my scrumptious Chocolate Cranberry Cookies for another festive treat that everyone will love!
Make Ahead Options
These Frosted Holiday Eggnog Cookies are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks who want to bring festive cheer without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep it fresh. The eggnog frosting can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days—just give it a quick stir before using to restore its creamy consistency. When you’re ready to bake, roll out your chilled dough, cut into shapes, and bake as instructed. Finish with frosting and festive sprinkles right before serving for delicious, homemade cookies that taste just as delightful as if made fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Frosted Holiday Eggnog Cookies
Fridge: Store your frosted cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the un-frosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the cookies in the fridge overnight. Frost them after thawing to keep the frosting looking fresh and vibrant.
Reheating: If desired, you can warm frozen cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F for a few minutes to restore their delightful softness before serving.
What to Serve with Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting
Cozy up your holiday gatherings with delightful pairings that enhance the cheer of these sweet treats.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich, chocolatey flavors complement the spiced sweetness of the cookies, creating a comforting duo perfect for wintry evenings.
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Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, fragrant drink echoes the spices in the cookies, offering a delightful balance of flavors that warms the soul.
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Nutty Pecan Pie: The buttery pecans and sweet filling provide a delightful contrast to the soft, frosted cookies, making for an irresistible dessert platter.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of melty ice cream over warm cookies is pure bliss, allowing the creamy texture to enhance the rich flavors of eggnog.
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Gingerbread Latte: This seasonal favorite brings a festive coffee kick that pairs nicely with the soft sweetness, elevating your cookie experience to new heights.
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Holiday Cheese Board: Incorporate a selection of cheeses, nuts, and seasonal fruits to create a festive platter, offering variety that enhances the cookie’s sweet notes.
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Cinnamon Sugar Churros: The warm, crispy churros add a fun texture contrast and will delight your guests with their sugary cinnamon embrace alongside eggnog cookies.
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Mulled Wine: The warm spices in mulled wine beautifully harmonize with the flavors of nutmeg and cinnamon in the cookies, creating a festive drink option.
Frosted Holiday Eggnog Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of eggnog should I use for the cookies?
Absolutely! For optimal flavor, I recommend using a rich, full-fat eggnog. If you’re aiming for a lighter option or need a lactose-free treat, try using non-dairy eggnog alternatives available in most stores!
How should I store my Frosted Holiday Eggnog Cookies?
Very simple! To keep your frosted cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure they are not stacked directly on top of each other to avoid smudging the frosting.
Can I freeze the cookies, and how?
Yes! It’s easy to freeze your cookies. After baking and cooling the cookies, freeze them un-frosted on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can remain safe in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight before frosting!
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If that happens, don’t worry! The main culprit is often the temperature of the butter; it should be soft but not melted. Ensure your dough is well-chilled, and if necessary, add a bit more flour to reach the right consistency. A chill of at least 2 hours helps keep them from spreading too much during baking.
Are these cookies suitable for those with specific dietary restrictions?
Yes, you can easily adjust them! For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with margarine or coconut oil and use non-dairy eggnog. Be aware of any allergies, especially with nuts and gluten, when selecting ingredients. If you’re avoiding alcohol, simply omit the spiced rum; they’ll still taste delightful!
How can I add extra flavor to my Frosted Holiday Eggnog Cookies?
The more the merrier! Try incorporating additional spices like ground ginger or cardamom into the cookie dough or frosting for a unique twist. You could even use flavored extracts, like vanilla or almond, to complement the eggnog flavor perfectly. Enjoy experimenting!
Frosted Holiday Eggnog Cookies That Bring Joy to Your Table
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Cookie Dough: Beat the butter until creamy, add brown sugar, then mix in egg yolks, eggnog, and spiced rum.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, and allspice, then blend with wet mixture.
- Chill Dough: Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Make the Frosting: Cream butter and sugar, then mix in spiced rum, eggnog, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
- Preheat Oven: Set to 325°F and prepare for baking.
- Cut and Bake Cookies: Roll out chilled dough, cut into shapes, and bake for about 12 minutes.
- Cool and Frost: Cool cookies before frosting and add sprinkles if desired.