Nutmeg Logs: Soft, Buttery Christmas Cookies to Cherish

Name: Nutmeg Logs: Soft, Buttery Christmas Cookies to Cherish
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (softened at room temperature); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (or brown sugar for deeper flavor); 1 Large Egg; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour blend); 2 teaspoons Freshly Grated Nutmeg (or pre-ground if necessary); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure for best results); 1 teaspoon Rum Extract (or extra vanilla as substitute); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (essential for icing); 2 tablespoons Milk (whole milk recommended); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; ½ teaspoon Rum Extract

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Posted on December 22, 2025

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As I rummaged through my grandma’s old recipe box, the scent of nutmeg transports me back to cozy winter afternoons spent in her warm kitchen. Those cherished moments of laughter and baking led me straight to the classic Nutmeg Logs, soft and buttery Christmas cookies that perfectly encapsulate the spirit of the season. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and comforting warmth, these delightful treats are not only easy to make, but they also evoke a sense of nostalgia that every holiday gathering craves. Whether you’re welcoming guests or simply treating yourself, these cookies are a must-have addition to your festive spread. Ready to bring the joy of homemade baking to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why are Nutmeg Logs so special?

Simplicity at its finest: These cookies require just a few common ingredients and minimal time, making them easy for bakers of all skill levels.
Deliciously fragrant: The warm notes of nutmeg combined with the richness of butter create a heavenly aroma that fills your home, embodying the essence of the holidays.
Versatile enjoyment: Perfect alongside hot cocoa or coffee, these cookies harmonize beautifully with other festive treats, making them ideal for any gathering.
Memorable tradition: Passed down through generations, baking these Nutmeg Logs sparks nostalgia, creating new memories while respecting cherished family recipes.
Bake your way into the holiday spirit with these delightful cookies and share the warmth with friends and family!

Nutmeg Logs Ingredients

• For the Cookies

Butter – Adds richness and tenderness; ensure it’s softened at room temperature for easier mixing.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth; use pure vanilla for the best results.
Rum Extract – Provides a subtle, festive flavor reminiscent of traditional eggnog; can substitute with extra vanilla if desired.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and aids in creating a tender cookie; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
Egg – Acts as a binding agent; use large eggs for consistent results.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for a gluten-free alternative, consider a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Nutmeg – The star flavoring agent that gives these cookies their characteristic warmth and aroma; fresh nutmeg can enhance the flavor.

• For the Icing

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the icing; essential for a decorative glaze.
Milk – Adjusts the icing consistency; use whole milk for a richer taste.
Vanilla Extract – Adds flavor to the icing to complement the cookies.
Rum Extract – Mirrors the flavor profile of the cookies and enhances the festive touch.

These chewy, nostalgic Nutmeg Logs will be the perfect addition to your holiday cookie tray, evoking warmth and joy in every bite.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nutmeg Logs

Step 1: Make the Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons of freshly grated nutmeg to combine. In a separate large bowl, cream 1 cup of softened butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of rum extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients until a smooth and uniform dough forms.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies
On a lightly floured surface, divide the dough into manageable portions and roll each segment into logs approximately ½ inch in diameter. Cut the logs into 2-inch pieces and place them on an ungreased baking sheet, ensuring they have space to expand as they bake. The dough should be soft but handleable; work gently to maintain the tender texture that defines these Nutmeg Logs.

Step 3: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the Nutmeg Logs for 12-15 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, as they should turn light golden on the bottom but remain slightly pale on top to preserve their softness. When they are done, cool them on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Icing
While the cookies cool, prepare the icing by whisking together 2 cups of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of rum extract in a medium bowl. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if necessary; you want it to be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but thin enough to drizzle over the cookies smoothly.

Step 5: Frost and Decorate
Once the Nutmeg Logs have cooled completely, generously spread or drizzle the icing over each cookie. For an extra festive touch, dust a sprinkle of nutmeg or colorful holiday-themed sprinkles on top while the icing is still wet. Allow the icing to set before serving, which makes these cookies even more delightful when shared with family and friends during the holiday season.

Helpful Tricks for Nutmeg Logs

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature. This helps create a light, fluffy texture that’s crucial for your Nutmeg Logs.
Don’t Over-Mix: Mix the dough just until combined to keep your cookies tender. Over-mixing can develop gluten, making them tough.
Watch the Bake Time: Check your cookies at the lower end of the baking time. They should be light golden underneath and slightly soft in the center to maintain that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Chill the Dough: If you’re having trouble handling the soft dough, chill it for 30 minutes before shaping. This makes rolling into logs easier and prevents spreading during baking.
Fresh Nutmeg: For the best flavor, use freshly grated nutmeg instead of pre-ground. It enhances the warm, festive spice that this classic cookie recipe is known for.

Nutmeg Logs: Creative Twists Await

Feel free to explore and personalize these delightful Nutmeg Logs, adding your own unique flair to this cherished recipe!

Cinnamon Twist:
Substitute half of the nutmeg with cinnamon for a cozy, spiced flavor. This pairing echoes the warmth of holiday baking and creates a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen.
Nuts & Fruits:
Add chopped walnuts or dried cranberries into the dough for a chewy texture and bursts of flavor. This not only enhances the taste but also makes for a delightful surprise in every bite.
Powdered Sugar Coat:
Roll the finished cookies in powdered sugar instead of icing for a snowy, wintery touch. The sweetness complements the spice beautifully, giving you a classic holiday appearance.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle:
Top with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate once the icing has set. This adds a rich layer of flavor, balancing the warmth of the nutmeg with a luxurious touch.
Low-Sugar Option:
Substitute granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like monk fruit or stevia to reduce sugar content. Your cookies will maintain their delightful taste while being a bit lighter on the sweetness scale.

Remember, creating your own variations can lead to delightful discoveries. If you find yourself yearning for more cozy treats, don’t miss out on exploring delicious gluten-free baking options or pairing these cookies with a warm mug of hot cocoa for the perfect afternoon delight!

Make Ahead Options

These Nutmeg Logs are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing it and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To shape the cookies, roll the dough into logs and either freeze them for up to 3 months or slice and bake them fresh when ready to enjoy. Be sure to wrap the dough tightly to prevent any drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them straight from the freezer or fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly soft and buttery Nutmeg Logs, just as delicious as the fresh-baked ones.

Storage Tips for Nutmeg Logs

Room Temperature: Keep your Nutmeg Logs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This ensures they stay fresh and maintain their delightful texture.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer cookie, store them in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 2 weeks, though the flavor may mellow slightly.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked logs wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, slice and bake straight from the freezer or thaw overnight in the fridge first.
Reheating: If you have leftover baked cookies, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to warm them up, bringing back their soft and buttery goodness.

What to Serve with Classic Nutmeg Logs

Experience the warmth and joy of holiday baking by pairing these soft, buttery cookies with delightful accompaniments that elevate your festive spread.

Rich Hot Cocoa: The creamy texture and chocolatey flavor of hot cocoa perfectly complement the warm spices in Nutmeg Logs, creating a cozy experience.
Spicy Mulled Cider: A glass of spiced apple cider enhances the festive mood, bringing out the comforting notes of nutmeg and warmth in each cookie.
Creamy Eggnog: Embrace the eggnog essence of the cookies by serving them with a chilled glass of creamy eggnog, tying together flavors beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream offers a delightful contrast to the soft, spiced cookies, making each bite a harmonious treat.
Chewy Gingerbread Cookies: Create a cookie platter that celebrates the season with chewy gingerbread cookies, their spiciness harmonizing wonderfully with the nutmeg.
Sweet Holiday Spritz: Pair with light, sweet spritz cookies to add variety to your dessert table while maintaining a festive spirit.
Cinnamon Coffee: Brew a cup of cinnamon-spiced coffee to enhance the cookies’ warm flavors, creating a comforting sip to enjoy alongside.
Festive Fruit Tart: A fresh fruit tart adds brightness and texture, balancing the richness of the Nutmeg Logs for a well-rounded dessert experience.

Nutmeg Logs Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best nutmeg for my Nutmeg Logs?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using freshly grated nutmeg instead of pre-ground nutmeg. Freshly grated nutmeg has a warmer, more aromatic quality that enhances the overall taste of your cookies. If you can find whole nutmeg seeds, use a microplane or a fine grater to grate just what you need, ensuring a maximum flavor punch.

How should I store my baked Nutmeg Logs?
You can store your Nutmeg Logs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you prefer them firmer, the fridge is a great option, where they can last for 2 weeks—though the flavor may soften slightly. For a longer storage solution, freeze them unbaked, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the dough for Nutmeg Logs?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, shape your dough into logs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and then in foil. This way, you can slice the logs while frozen and bake them straight from the freezer, or you can thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking. It’s a great way to have fresh cookies on demand!

What can I do if my Nutmeg Logs turn out too dry?
If your Nutmeg Logs are dry, it’s essential to keep an eye on the bake time. Cookies should be taken out when they are light golden underneath and slightly soft on top. If you plan to store them, make sure your container is airtight to maintain tension. You can also add an extra tablespoon of butter in your next batch; this adjustment can help maintain moisture.

Are Nutmeg Logs suitable for people with food allergies?
Nutmeg Logs contain common allergens such as butter, eggs, and wheat (gluten). To make them suitable for those with dietary restrictions, opt for dairy-free butter substitutes and use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Always check packaging labels for possible cross-contamination, especially with nutmeg and other spices if nut allergies are a concern.

How long will the icing last on my Nutmeg Logs?
The icing adds a lovely finishing touch to your Nutmeg Logs! Once applied, the icing should set at room temperature and can last for up to a week when stored properly. However, to keep the freshness of the cookies, I recommend icing them just before you’re ready to serve or gift them. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors with each bite!