There’s nothing quite like the taste of eggnog during the holiday season. The creamy, spiced flavor instantly brings feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Imagine combining that iconic taste with the soft, chewy texture of cookies. Soft and chewy eggnog cookies are your answer to the ultimate festive dessert. They’re easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and guaranteed to be a hit at any holiday gathering.

Why You’ll Love Soft and Chewy Eggnog Cookies

These cookies are the perfect blend of flavors and textures:

• Soft and Tender: They melt in your mouth with every bite.
• Rich and Spiced: The eggnog, cinnamon, and nutmeg give a burst of holiday flavor.
• Perfectly Sweet: Not overly sugary, but just right for satisfying your sweet tooth.
• Simple to Make: No fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients needed.

Ingredients for Soft and Chewy Eggnog Cookies

For the Cookies:

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	2 1/2 cups (315 g)
Baking powder	1 tsp
Ground cinnamon	1/2 tsp
Ground nutmeg	1/2 tsp
Salt	1/2 tsp
Unsalted butter (softened)	3/4 cup (170 g)
Granulated sugar	1 cup (200 g)
Eggnog	1/2 cup (120 ml)
Large egg	1
Vanilla extract	1 tsp

For the Glaze (Optional):

Ingredient	Quantity
Powdered sugar	1 cup (120 g)
Eggnog	2-3 tbsp
Ground nutmeg (for garnish)	A pinch

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Set the mixture aside.

Cream the Butter and Sugar:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Add the Wet Ingredients:

1. Mix in the egg, eggnog, and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
2. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Chill the Dough:

1. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies keep their shape.

2. Shape and Bake the Cookies

Preheat the Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Shape the Cookies:

1. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
2. Place the balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

Bake:

1. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the cookies are lightly golden.
2. Do not overbake; the centers should remain soft.

Cool:

1. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Glaze the Cookies (Optional)

Make the Glaze:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and eggnog until smooth and slightly thick.

Decorate the Cookies:

1. Drizzle or spread the glaze over the cooled cookies.
2. Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg on top for garnish.

Tips for Perfect Eggnog Cookies

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the butter cream properly and the dough mix evenly.
• Don’t Skip Chilling the Dough: It prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
• Adjust the Nutmeg: Add more nutmeg if you prefer a stronger spiced flavor.

Creative Variations

1. Add White Chocolate Chips

• Fold 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet, creamy twist.

2. Make It Dairy-Free

• Substitute the butter with vegan butter and the eggnog with almond or coconut-based nog.

3. Add a Crunch

• Sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Parties: Arrange them on a festive platter for gatherings.
• With a Hot Drink: Pair them with hot cocoa, coffee, or spiced tea for a cozy treat.
• As a Gift: Wrap them in decorative boxes or bags for a thoughtful homemade present.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before shaping and baking.

2. Can I freeze the cookies?

Absolutely. Freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

3. What type of eggnog should I use?

Full-fat eggnog works best for a rich flavor, but low-fat or dairy-free options can also be used.

4. Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, the cookies are delicious on their own. The glaze adds extra sweetness and a festive touch, but it’s optional.

5. How do I store the cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If glazed, place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in batches.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Cookie
Calories	~120
Protein	~1.5g
Fat	~5g
Carbohydrates	~17g
Fiber	~0.5g

Make These Cookies Part of Your Holiday Tradition

Soft and chewy eggnog cookies capture the essence of the holiday season in every bite. They’re a delightful way to share the joy of baking with loved ones or to treat yourself to something special.

Ready to bake? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to fill your home with the warm, inviting aroma of these festive cookies!

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