Indulge in the delightful flavors of the holiday season with our Vanilla Eggnog Cookie Recipe. These cookies are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them perfect for any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy nights by the fireplace.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The combination of vanilla, nutmeg, and eggnog creates a unique and irresistible flavor profile.
- With simple ingredients and quick prep time, these cookies are perfect for last-minute baking sessions.
- These cookies are great for meal prep and can be stored for several days without losing their delicious taste.
Ingredient Notes:
Cookie Dough:
- Salted butter, at room temperature: Adds richness and flavor to the cookies.
- Packed brown sugar: Provides a chewy texture and caramel-like sweetness.
- Egg, at room temperature: Binds the ingredients together.
- Tablespoons bourbon (optional): Enhances the flavor with a hint of warmth.
- Teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the cookies with a sweet and aromatic flavor.
- All-purpose flour: Creates the base of the dough.
- Teaspoon cinnamon: Adds a warm and spicy note.
- Teaspoon grated nutmeg: Elevates the holiday flavor profile.
- Teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise.
- Teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness.
Spiced Vanilla Icing:
- Powdered sugar: Creates a smooth and sweet icing.
- Tablespoon vanilla extract: Adds a rich vanilla flavor.
- Teaspoon grated nutmeg or cinnamon: Enhances the spiced flavor.
- Eggnog: Provides a creamy and festive touch.
- Edible gold dust, vanilla sugar, and/or sprinkles for decorating: Adds a festive and decorative touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, bourbon (if using), and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Roll the dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before icing with the spiced vanilla icing and decorating as desired.
Helpful Tips:
- For a softer cookie, slightly underbake them.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- Substitute rum extract for bourbon for a non-alcoholic version.
- Add a pinch of cloves for a spicier flavor.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking for better texture.
- Use fresh nutmeg for the best flavor.
- Decorate with edible gold dust for a festive touch.
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy these Vanilla Eggnog Cookies with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of eggnog for the ultimate holiday treat.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking. - Can I omit the bourbon?
Yes, you can omit the bourbon or substitute it with rum extract for a non-alcoholic version. - How can I make the icing thicker?
Add more powdered sugar to the icing until you reach your desired consistency.
Conclusion:
Try out our Vanilla Eggnog Cookie Recipe for a delicious and festive treat that will surely impress your friends and family. Don’t forget to share your feedback and tag us in your creations! Happy baking!
Print
Vanilla Eggnog Cookie Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of eggnog and vanilla with these delightful cookies. The perfect treat for the holiday season!
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 1/2 sticks (3/4 cup) salted butter, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 egg, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons bourbon (optional)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus an additional 2-4 tablespoons if needed
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Spiced Vanilla Icing
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg or cinnamon
- 1/2 cup eggnog (or use milk or water)
- Edible gold dust, vanilla sugar, and/or sprinkles for decorating
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Dough: Cream together butter and brown sugar, then mix in egg, bourbon, and vanilla. Add flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Chill dough, then roll out and cut into shapes.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes or until edges are golden. Let cool before decorating.
- Make the Spiced Vanilla Icing: Whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla, nutmeg/cinnamon, and eggnog until smooth. Decorate cooled cookies and enjoy!
Notes
- You can adjust the spices in the icing to suit your taste preferences.
- For a non-alcoholic version, replace bourbon with additional vanilla extract or milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg