Name: Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting for Festive Cheer
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 162 min
Ingredients: 2 1/2 sticks Room Temperature Butter (Add moisture and richness; ensure it's soft for easy mixing.); 1 cup Packed Brown Sugar (Brings sweetness and a caramelized flavor.); 4 large Egg Yolks (Enrich the cookie structure; discard the egg whites for this recipe.); 1/4 cup Eggnog (Infuses holiday flavor; choose high-quality store-bought or homemade.); 1 tablespoon Spiced Rum or Rum Extract (Introduces traditional holiday notes; use extract for non-alcoholic.); 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (Provides structure; opt for a gluten-free blend if needed.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Helps the cookies rise.); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.); 1/2 teaspoon Freshly Ground Nutmeg (Adds warmth typical of holiday treats.); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Contributes warmth and depth to flavor.); Pinch Allspice (Enhances holiday spices; can be omitted.); 6 tablespoons Room Temperature Butter (Serves as the creamy base.); 2 1/4 cups Confectioner’s Sugar (Sweetens the frosting to perfection.); 1 1/2 teaspoons Spiced Rum or Rum Extract (Adds a festive flavor.); 2 tablespoons Eggnog (Gives flavor and creaminess.); 1/4 teaspoon Freshly Grated Nutmeg (Extra holiday kick.); Pinch Ground Cinnamon (Adds warmth.)

The air is filled with the intoxicating scent of nutmeg and cinnamon, a sure sign that the holidays are upon us. This year, I’m bringing a delightful twist to our festive gatherings with my Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting. These charming cutout cookies are perfect for any holiday celebration, offering a tender bite that’s both sweet and infused with that classic eggnog flavor. What really elevates these cookies is the luscious rum-infused frosting—it’s a deliciously festive touch that turns any gathering into a celebration. Not only are they easy to whip up and great for sharing, but they also make wonderful additions to your holiday cookie platter. Curious to know how to bring this holiday delight to your table? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love Eggnog Cookies?

Festive Flavor Explosion: Each cookie bursts with the warm, traditional taste of eggnog, complemented by spices like nutmeg and cinnamon.

Rum-Infused Frosting: The luscious frosting takes these cookies to another level, delivering a delightful twist of holiday cheer that’s hard to resist.

Perfect for Sharing: Great for cookie exchanges or holiday gatherings, these cutouts will have your friends and family coming back for more!

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these delicious treats in no time!

Versatile Shapes: Use your favorite cookie cutters to create festive designs, making them not only tasty but beautiful on your holiday table.

Also, if you love unique cookie ideas, check out our Tiramisu Cookies Steal or Pumpkin Smores Cookies for more joyful baking inspiration!

Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting Ingredients

For the Cookies

Room Temperature Butter – 2 1/2 sticks (1 1/4 cups) add moisture and richness; ensure it’s soft for easy mixing.
Packed Brown Sugar – 1 cup brings sweetness and a caramelized flavor; can substitute with granulated sugar if desired.
Large Egg Yolks – 4 enrich the cookie structure; discard the egg whites for this recipe.
Eggnog – 1/4 cup infuses the warm holiday flavor; choose high-quality store-bought or homemade eggnog for best results.
Spiced Rum or Rum Extract – 1 tablespoon (or 1 teaspoon extract) introduces traditional holiday notes; use extract for a non-alcoholic treat.
All-Purpose Flour – 3 cups provides structure to these cookies; opt for a gluten-free blend if needed.
Baking Powder – 1 teaspoon helps the cookies rise and maintain a soft texture.
Salt – 1/4 teaspoon balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
Freshly Ground Nutmeg – 1/2 teaspoon adds warmth typical of holiday treats; whole nutmeg is the freshest option.
Ground Cinnamon – 1/2 teaspoon contributes warmth and depth to the flavor profile; adjust according to taste.
Allspice – Pinch enhances the holiday spices; feel free to omit if you don’t have it on hand.

For the Frosting

Room Temperature Butter – 6 tablespoons serve as the creamy base for your frosting.
Confectioner’s Sugar – 2 1/4 cups sweetens the frosting to perfection and creates a smooth texture.
Spiced Rum or Rum Extract – 1 1/2 teaspoons (or 1/4 teaspoon extract) adds a festive flavor; feel free to adjust to your taste.
Eggnog – 2 tablespoons gives the frosting flavor and creaminess; choose your favorite eggnog for the best blend.
Freshly Grated Nutmeg – 1/4 teaspoon for that extra holiday kick in your frosting.
Ground Cinnamon – Pinch adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

Step 1: Dough Preparation
In a stand mixer, cream together 2 1/2 sticks of room temperature butter on medium speed for about 2 minutes until pale and fluffy. Gradually incorporate 1 cup of packed brown sugar, beating for another minute. Next, mix in 4 large egg yolks one by one, followed by 1/4 cup of eggnog and 1 tablespoon of spiced rum until everything is fully combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate 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 ground cinnamon, and a pinch of allspice. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in the stand mixer, mixing gently until just combined. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours to firm up.

Step 3: Frosting Prep
While the dough is chilling, prepare the eggnog frosting. In a clean stand mixer bowl, cream together 6 tablespoons of room temperature butter and 2 1/4 cups of confectioner’s sugar at medium speed. Gradually add 1 1/2 teaspoons of spiced rum, 2 tablespoons of eggnog, 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg, and a pinch of ground cinnamon until the frosting is smooth and creamy, then set aside.

Step 4: Baking Cookies
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes and carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 12 minutes until the edges are lightly browned, then remove from the oven and let them cool on the sheets for a few minutes.

Step 5: Cooling and Decorating
Once the cookies are cool enough to handle, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. After they’re cooled, frost the cookies generously with the prepared eggnog frosting, adjusting the frosting’s consistency with milk if necessary. While the frosting is still wet, sprinkle with colorful holiday sprinkles to add a festive touch to your Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting!

What to Serve with Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting?

These charming cookies are the perfect addition to any holiday gathering, and they pair beautifully with a variety of delectable bites and drinks.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: Enjoy a mug of rich hot chocolate that complements the sweetness of the cookies and adds an extra layer of indulgence.
Fresh Fruit Salad: The vibrant freshness of a fruit salad bursts with flavor, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich eggnog cookies.
Spiced Pears: Poached spiced pears lend a warm, fragrant sweetness that echoes the spices in your cookies, enhancing the cozy holiday vibe.
Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, balances the sweetness of the cookies with savory notes, creating a delightful flavor contrast.
Christmas Punch: A festive punch, whether fruity or spiced, transforms your cookie plate into a sparkling centerpiece, inviting cheer and celebration.
Gingerbread Men: Pairing these cookies with iconic gingerbread men provides a doubled dose of holiday spirit and charming nostalgia on your dessert table.
Pecan Pie Bars: Rich, nutty pecan pie bars offer a sumptuous texture that complements the tender bite of eggnog cookies, creating a well-rounded dessert experience.

Indulge in the festive flavors of the season by serving any of these delightful treats alongside your Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting!

Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting Variations

Feel free to tailor these delightful cookies to your palate or dietary needs; there are endless ways to add a personal touch!

Dairy-Free: Swap eggnog and butter for non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter for lactose-free cookies.
Sugar Substitute: Replace packed brown sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier option. This can bring a rich, caramel flavor while keeping it guilt-free.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these festive treats without worry. Just be sure to check for a quality mix.
Spice It Up: Add 1 teaspoon of ground ginger for an extra zing or a pinch of clove to deepen the holiday flavor profile. These spices complement eggnog brilliantly!
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips into the dough for a delightful twist; they’ll melt into gooey pockets that enhance every bite.
Decorative Options: Use different icing colors for frosting, or drizzle melted chocolate over frosted cookies. This not only enhances the look but elevates the flavor experience.
Cookie Shapes: Use an assortment of festive cookie cutters, like stars or trees, to bring fun and variety to your holiday cookie platter. Shape matters in festive delight!
Alternate Frosting: Consider a cream cheese frosting instead of the eggnog frosting. The tangy flavor balances perfectly with the sweetness of the cookies!

Also, if you’re inspired for more cookie fun, try our delicious Chocolate Chip Cookies or bake up some decadent Pumpkin Oat Cookies for a twist on traditional flavors. Enjoy exploring these variations!

Storage Tips for Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting

Room Temperature: Keep frosted cookies at room temperature for up to 2 days, ensuring they are in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Fridge: For longer storage, place cookies in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This helps keep the frosting and cookies at their best texture.

Freezer: Unfrosted Eggnog Cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap them in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for optimal freshness.

Reheating: If frozen, thaw the cookies in the fridge overnight and bring to room temperature before serving for a delightful taste that’s just like fresh-baked.

Expert Tips for Eggnog Cookies

Soften Butter: Make sure to soften your butter properly to avoid lumps in the dough; this ensures a smoother mix for your Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting.
Proper Chilling: Chill the dough for at least 2 hours, as this helps maintain the cookie structure. If it’s too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling.
Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye while baking; the cookies should be lightly browned at the edges and still soft in the center for optimal texture.
Frosting Consistency: Adjust the frosting consistency with a dash of milk if it’s too thick for easy spreading; this helps in achieving a smooth finish.
Festive Shapes: Use various cookie cutters to create fun designs that enhance the holiday spirit and charm of your Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting!

Make Ahead Options

These Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy stress-free holiday baking! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Additionally, the cookies can be baked ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature to maintain their softness. For the frosting, mix it up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge; just remember to bring it back to room temperature before frosting the cookies. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost the cooled cookies and enjoy delicious holiday treats with minimal last-minute effort!

Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best eggnog for the cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for high-quality eggnog with real ingredients. If you’re opting for store-bought, check for eggnog made with real dairy and minimal additives. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade eggnog can also elevate these cookies with a personal touch.

How should I store the Eggnog Cookies?
Great question! Store frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer-lasting cookies, place them in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to a week. If you have any unfrosted cookies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag to keep them fresh for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Frosting?
Certainly! For best results, freeze the unfrosted cookies. Wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a sealed freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cookies in the fridge overnight, and frost them just before serving for that fresh-baked taste.

What if my cookie dough is too hard to roll out?
Not a problem! If you find that your dough is too firm after chilling, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This will soften it just enough to make rolling easier without compromising its structure. Just remember, a little patience can go a long way!

Are there any dietary restrictions with these Eggnog Cookies?
Very! If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic version, simply use rum extract instead of spiced rum for the cookies and frosting. Additionally, for those with lactose intolerance, you can substitute eggnog with a non-dairy alternative, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delightful cookies. Just keep an eye on other ingredients for allergies too!

How long do I need to chill the cookie dough, and can it be done overnight?
Yes, indeed! Chill the dough for at least 2 hours to set the structure before rolling. If you’re prepping ahead, chilling the dough overnight works beautifully—just make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes if it seems too firm.