Frosted Eggnog Cookies Recipe

These Frosted Eggnog Cookies are the epitome of holiday cheer, blending the rich flavors of eggnog with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg. Each bite transports you to a cozy winter evening, filled with the promise of festive gatherings and joyful celebrations. The soft, buttery cookies are perfectly complemented by a creamy frosting that adds an extra layer of indulgence. This recipe is a must-have for any holiday cookie tray, offering a delightful twist on traditional holiday treats.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon rum extract
• 1/2 cup eggnog
• Cinnamon for garnish
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
• 1/2 teaspoon rum extract (for frosting)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (for frosting)
• 3-5 tablespoons eggnog (for frosting)
• 3 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In the bowl of an electric mixer with a paddle attachment, whip together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

4. Add Egg Yolks and Extracts: Mix in the egg yolks one at a time, blending just until combined after each addition. Add the vanilla and rum extract and mix until blended.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: With your mixer on low, slowly add about half of the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, then the eggnog, and finally the rest of the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

6. Shape Dough: Scoop heaping tablespoons of the dough about two inches apart onto the prepared baking sheets.

7. Bake Cookies: Bake for 11-14 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Make Frosting: In the bowl of an electric mixer with a whisk attachment, whip the butter until light and fluffy. Add the rum extract, vanilla extract, salt, and about three tablespoons of eggnog. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar. Add additional eggnog to reach the desired consistency.

9. Frost Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them with the eggnog frosting. Sprinkle lightly with cinnamon before the frosting sets.

10. Serve: Enjoy your Frosted Eggnog Cookies as a delightful holiday treat, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Top Tips:

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, including butter and egg yolks, are at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

2. Chill Dough: If you find the dough too sticky, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to firm it up before baking.

3. Don’t Overmix: Avoid overmixing the dough to prevent tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

4. Adjust Frosting Consistency: Add more eggnog to the frosting if you prefer a thinner consistency or more powdered sugar for a thicker frosting.

5. Decorate with Sprinkles: Add festive sprinkles on top of the frosted cookies for an extra touch of holiday cheer.

6. Store Properly: Store the frosted cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for up to 5 days.

Variations:

1. Chocolate Chip Variation: Mix in chocolate chips into the dough for a delightful chocolate-eggnog combination.

2. Candy Cane Variation: Crush candy canes and sprinkle them on top of the frosted cookies for a festive look.

3. Nutty Variation: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the dough for added texture and flavor.

4. Spiced Variation: Increase the amount of nutmeg and cinnamon in the dough for an extra spicy kick.

5. Fruit Variation: Mix in dried cranberries or cherries into the dough for a fruity twist.

6. Glazed Variation: Instead of frosting, drizzle the cookies with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.

Nutritional Guide:

Additional Nutritional Notes: These cookies are rich in butter and sugar, making them high in calories and fat. However, they are also a good source of protein from the egg yolks and provide a satisfying treat during the holiday season. To make them slightly healthier, consider using less sugar or adding some chopped nuts for extra fiber and texture.