If you adore classic snickerdoodles but want to dial your cookie game up a notch during the holiday season, the Eggnog Snickerdoodles Recipe is your new best friend. These cookies capture the rich, creamy essence of eggnog, mingled with warm cinnamon and nutmeg, baked into soft, chewy bites of festival joy. Every bite feels like a festive hug, with that nostalgic eggnog flavor peeking through in the perfect cinnamon-sugar coating. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family gathering or gifting homemade treats, this recipe promises cheer and comfort in every cookie.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Eggnog Snickerdoodles Recipe relies on straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that blend harmoniously to create their signature flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role, from the warmth of the spices to the buttery soft dough that yields tender cookies packed with holiday spirit.
- Granulated sugar: Used both in the dough and the cinnamon-sugar coating to add sweetness and a slight crunch on the outside.
- Ground nutmeg: Provides that classic eggnog spice flavor that is subtle but essential.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and pairs beautifully with nutmeg in the spice mix.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookies giving structure and softness.
- Cream of tartar: The secret ingredient that helps achieve the classic snickerdoodle tang and chewy texture.
- Baking soda and baking powder: Work together to give the cookies a lovely rise.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the spices.
- Unsalted butter: Softened for easy mixing, creates a rich, moist, and tender cookie.
- Light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor to the dough.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and give the dough richness.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweet aromas and balances the spice notes.
- Rum extract: Infuses the cookies with authentic eggnog character without adding alcohol.
How to Make Eggnog Snickerdoodles Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together your flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt for about 20 seconds. This not only blends the spices evenly but also ensures the leavening agents are well distributed, setting the foundation for that perfectly textured cookie you’re about to create.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In your stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened butter along with granulated sugar and brown sugar on medium speed until the mixture is creamy and fluffy—roughly 3 minutes. This step is crucial as it traps air in the butter, resulting in a lighter cookie texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts
Slowly beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla and rum extracts. These liquid ingredients bring richness and the unmistakable eggnog aroma that makes this cookie so compelling.
Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the flour and spice mixture into the wet ingredients on low speed. Mix just until everything is combined to avoid overworking the dough, which will keep your cookies tender and soft.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 60 minutes, or overnight if possible. Chilling solidifies the fat in the dough and allows the flavors to meld beautifully, helping maintain shape during baking and enhancing the eggnog spice notes.
Step 6: Prepare to Bake
Preheat your oven to 350 ºF and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, giving you clean, perfect bottoms every time.
Step 7: Shape and Coat the Cookies
Scoop the dough using a heaping tablespoon to form balls. Roll each ball in a cinnamon, nutmeg, and granulated sugar mixture until evenly coated. This spiced sugar crust adds a delightful texture contrast and maximizes that festive flavor in every bite.
Step 8: Bake and Cool
Arrange the coated dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for about 9 to 10 minutes. You’ll notice the cookies may look slightly under-baked in the center—this is perfect for a soft and chewy texture. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Store your batch in an airtight container to keep their magic intact.
How to Serve Eggnog Snickerdoodles Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Eggnog Snickerdoodles Recipe presentation, sprinkle a little extra ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top just before serving. A dusting of powdered sugar can also add a festive snow-kissed look that makes these cookies irresistible when placed on a holiday platter.
Side Dishes
These cookies are a match made in heaven alongside a hot cup of spiced cider, chai tea, or, of course, a glass of chilled eggnog. Their warm spices complement rich and creamy drinks beautifully, turning every bite and sip into a mini celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful twist, sandwich two Eggnog Snickerdoodles Recipe cookies with a filling of eggnog-flavored frosting or cream cheese. Alternatively, serve them on festive plates or stack them in a clear glass jar tied with ribbon for gifting. Presentation can turn even the simplest cookie into a dazzling holiday centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store your Eggnog Snickerdoodles in an airtight container at room temperature. They remain soft and flavorful for up to a week, making them perfect for early holiday baking or a sweet weekday treat.
Freezing
You can freeze the dough balls before baking or the baked cookies themselves. For dough, freeze on a sheet tray until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking. For baked cookies, freeze them layered with parchment paper and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
If you want that fresh-baked warmth, pop your cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds or warm briefly in a low-temperature oven. This revives their soft, chewy texture and the wonderful aroma of those eggnog spices.
FAQs
Can I use fresh nutmeg instead of ground?
Absolutely! Freshly grated nutmeg tends to be more fragrant and can elevate the Eggnog Snickerdoodles Recipe even further. Just use about the same amount as ground, and you’ll notice a brighter spice flavor.
What if I don’t have rum extract?
No worries! You can simply omit the rum extract or substitute with an extra half teaspoon of vanilla extract. The cookies will still carry delicious eggnog flavor with those warm spices.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
With some experimentation, yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a trusted gluten-free blend that contains xanthan gum for best results. Keep in mind texture might vary slightly, but the flavors will still shine.
Why do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling firms up the dough which helps control spreading during baking. It also allows the spices and flavors to meld, resulting in a richer taste and chewier texture that makes Eggnog Snickerdoodles Recipe so memorable.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! This recipe scales well. Just be sure to mix in batches if needed, and keep the dough chilled before baking to maintain the perfect cookie consistency and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Eggnog Snickerdoodles Recipe, it will become a holiday tradition you’ll look forward to year after year. The blend of creamy eggnog flavors with classic snickerdoodle spices creates a cookie that feels both nostalgic and entirely new. Get your ingredients ready, roll up your sleeves, and spread some delicious holiday cheer with these festive delights!
