Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies

Name: Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup packed brown sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon rum extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup eggnog; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Sweet Dessert Recipes

Delight in the festive spirit with these Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies, a perfect treat for the holiday season.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-01T19:49:44.315Z

These Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies bring a delightful twist to traditional holiday treats. Infused with the rich flavors of eggnog and topped with a creamy frosting, they are sure to become a seasonal favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich eggnog flavor that captures the essence of the holidays
Soft and chewy texture with a delightful surprise in the center
Perfect for gifting or serving at holiday gatherings

      

The Festive Flavor of Eggnog

Eggnog is a quintessential holiday beverage that brings warmth and cheer to the season. Its rich and creamy texture, combined with spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, creates a comforting flavor that evokes memories of cozy gatherings and festive celebrations. In these Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies, we harness that delightful essence, allowing you to enjoy the spirit of eggnog in a delightful cookie form. Each bite offers a burst of holiday flavor, making them an irresistible treat for your holiday cookie tray.

Incorporating eggnog into baked goods not only enhances their flavor but also adds a unique moistness that makes cookies soft and chewy. The spices blend perfectly with the buttery dough, elevating the overall taste experience. Whether you're a fan of traditional eggnog or new to its charms, these cookies will surely win you over.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies are versatile enough to be enjoyed at various holiday gatherings, from family parties to office celebrations. Their charming appearance and festive flavor make them a standout treat that will impress your guests. Plus, their thumbprint design allows for a delightful filling that adds an extra layer of sweetness, making them an attractive centerpiece for any dessert table.

Additionally, these cookies make excellent gifts. Pack them in festive tins or boxes, and share the joy of homemade treats with friends and family. The unique flavor profile is sure to spark conversation and create lasting memories, making them a thoughtful and delicious gift option during the holiday season.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

For the best results when making Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies, ensure that your butter is at room temperature before creaming it with the sugars. This will help create a light and fluffy texture, which is essential for achieving that perfect cookie consistency. Also, be careful not to overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients; mixing just until combined will help keep the cookies tender and chewy.

When shaping the cookies, make sure to create a deep enough indentation for the filling without breaking through the bottom. This will ensure that each cookie holds the eggnog filling well. After baking, allow the cookies to cool completely before adding the filling, as this prevents the warm cookies from melting the filling.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 large egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon rum extract
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Filling

1/2 cup eggnog
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another mixing bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, rum extract, and nutmeg, mixing until combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Shape the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make a small indentation in the center of each ball using your thumb.

Bake and Fill

Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Let them cool, then fill each indentation with the eggnog filling made from whisking together eggnog, powdered sugar, and cinnamon.

Enjoy your delicious Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies!

Storage and Shelf Life

Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their fresh taste and chewy texture, consider placing a slice of bread in the container. The bread will help absorb excess moisture and keep the cookies soft. If you want to enjoy them longer, these cookies freeze beautifully. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours. If you're feeling indulgent, you can warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds, which will enhance their flavors and make them taste freshly baked.

Customizing Your Cookies

While the traditional eggnog filling is delicious, feel free to get creative with your thumbprint cookies. You can experiment with different fillings to suit your taste. Try using cranberry sauce for a tart contrast, or a spiced apple butter for a delightful twist. Chocolate ganache or cream cheese frosting can also make a rich, indulgent filling that complements the eggnog flavor beautifully.

Moreover, consider adding your favorite nuts or chocolate chips to the cookie dough for added texture and flavor. Chopped pecans or walnuts would harmonize well with the holiday theme. Don't hesitate to adjust the spices to your liking, whether you prefer a stronger nutmeg presence or an extra kick of cinnamon.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different flavor of extract?

Yes, you can substitute rum extract with vanilla or almond extract for a different flavor profile.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies without filling for up to three months. Thaw and fill before serving.

→ What can I use for the filling instead of eggnog?

You can use a simple vanilla frosting or a cream cheese filling as an alternative.