The holidays are a time for warmth, togetherness, and, of course, delicious treats. There’s something magical about baking during this season—it fills your home with comforting aromas and creates memories that last a lifetime. Among all the festive desserts, one stands out as a unique blend of holiday cheer and classic cookie goodness: Eggnog Snickerdoodle Cookies.

Imagine the soft, cinnamon-kissed texture of a Snickerdoodle paired with the creamy, spiced decadence of eggnog. These cookies bring together the best of two beloved traditions, making them the ultimate crowd-pleaser for your holiday table. Let’s dive into this recipe and show you how to make a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love These Eggnog Snickerdoodle Cookies

What makes these cookies so irresistible? It’s their perfect combination of flavors and textures.

1. A Festive Twist on a Classic: Snickerdoodles are already a fan favorite, but the addition of eggnog elevates them to holiday royalty.
2. The Perfect Balance: Soft and chewy cookies with a spiced, creamy ganache filling create an unforgettable dessert experience.
3. Versatile and Shareable: Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a thoughtful homemade gift, these cookies fit the bill.

Baking these cookies isn’t just about creating something delicious—it’s about infusing your holiday season with joy, warmth, and a sprinkle of magic.

Ingredients Breakdown for Eggnog Snickerdoodle Cookies

Before you start, it’s essential to have all your ingredients ready. Organization is the key to stress-free baking, and this recipe’s ingredients are simple yet impactful.

Cookie Dough Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Unsalted butter	4 oz (1 stick, room temperature)
Light brown sugar	½ cup, gently packed
White granulated sugar	¼ cup
Egg	1 medium (about 50 g, room temperature)
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
All-purpose flour	245 g (about 1¾ cups)
Kosher salt	¼ teaspoon
Baking soda	¼ teaspoon
Cream of tartar	½ teaspoon

Rolling Mixture Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
White sugar	⅓ cup
Ground cinnamon	2 tablespoons

Eggnog Ganache Filling Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
White chocolate	4 oz, chopped or broken into small pieces
Eggnog	2 tablespoons
Dark rum (or rum extract)	1 tablespoon dark rum or ¼ tsp rum extract
Freshly grated nutmeg	¼ teaspoon

Now that your ingredients are lined up, it’s time to bring these cookies to life.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Eggnog Snickerdoodle Cookies

Step 1: Preparing the Cookie Dough

1. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy—this step is crucial for creating a tender cookie.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, kosher salt, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a smooth dough forms.
4. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents spreading.

Step 2: Rolling and Baking the Cookies

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Roll the Dough: Scoop out tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Next, roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
3. Bake: Arrange the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
4. Cool: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely before adding the ganache.

Step 3: Making the Eggnog Ganache Filling

1. Heat Eggnog: In a small saucepan, gently heat the eggnog until it’s warm but not boiling.
2. Melt White Chocolate: Place the chopped white chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the warm eggnog over the chocolate and let it sit for a minute.
3. Add Flavor: Stir the mixture until smooth and creamy, then mix in the rum (or rum extract) and freshly grated nutmeg. Let the ganache cool slightly to thicken.

Step 4: Assembling the Cookies

1. Fill the Cookies: Flip half of the cookies upside down. Pipe or spoon a dollop of eggnog ganache onto the flat side of each cookie.
2. Create Sandwiches: Place another cookie on top, gently pressing to spread the ganache evenly.
3. Set: Allow the ganache to set for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Eggnog Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Chill the Dough: Don’t skip this step! Chilling the dough prevents cookies from spreading too much during baking.
• Fresh Nutmeg Makes a Difference: For authentic holiday flavor, grate whole nutmeg rather than using pre-ground.
• Storage Tip: Keep assembled cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve the ganache filling.

How to Store and Serve Eggnog Snickerdoodle Cookies

Storing Cookies

• Refrigerator: Store the filled cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked dough balls or baked cookies (without ganache) for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and assemble when needed.

Serving Suggestions

• These cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, cocoa, or—you guessed it—eggnog.
• Arrange them on a festive platter and sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar for a professional touch.

Health and Nutrition Information

While these cookies are undeniably indulgent, it’s good to know what’s in each bite.

Nutrient	Approximate Value per Cookie
Calories	120–150
Fat	7g
Sugar	10g
Protein	2g

FAQs About Eggnog Snickerdoodle Cookies

1. How long does the ganache take to set?
The ganache usually sets within 10–15 minutes, but you can refrigerate it to speed up the process.

2. Can I use a different filling flavor?
Absolutely! If eggnog isn’t your thing, consider a caramel or chocolate ganache for a different twist.

3. Are there non-alcoholic substitutes for rum?
Yes, you can use ¼ teaspoon of rum extract or simply skip it for a kid-friendly version.

4. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen—just add a minute or two to the baking time.

5. Can I use pre-ground nutmeg?
While fresh nutmeg offers the best flavor, pre-ground nutmeg works fine in a pinch.

6. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Refrigerate assembled cookies in an airtight container to keep the ganache fresh and flavorful.

Celebrate the Holidays with Easy Eggnog Snickerdoodle Cookies

These Eggnog Snickerdoodle Cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a symbol of holiday joy and the perfect way to spread cheer. With their irresistible flavor, festive appearance, and heartwarming aroma, they’re destined to become a favorite tradition for years to come.

Why wait? Gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and bring these delightful treats to your holiday table. Don’t forget to share the recipe and let others in on the magic. Happy baking!

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