Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season, then these Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies are just what you need! Soft, chewy cookies rolled in cinnamon sugar, filled with a creamy eggnog ganache—what could be more festive? These treats bring warmth and cheer to any gathering and are perfect for cookie exchanges or cozy family nights at home. I promise, once you taste these cookies, they’ll become a cherished part of your holiday traditions.

These cookies not only taste amazing but also fill your kitchen with the sweet, spicy aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg. They’re easy to make and will surely impress your friends and family. So grab your apron and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavor: The combination of eggnog, nutmeg, and cinnamon creates a warm holiday vibe in every bite.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Baking these cookies is a great activity to do with kids. They’ll love rolling the dough and filling the indentations!
• Make-Ahead Treats: These cookies can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for busy schedules during the holidays.
• Customizable Filling: The filling can be adjusted to suit your taste or dietary needs, allowing for creativity in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy ingredients for these delicious Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies; just some simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cookies

• 4 ounces (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
• ½ cup light brown sugar, gently packed
• ¼ cup white granulated sugar
• 1 medium egg, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 245 grams all-purpose flour (about 2 cups if measured by volume)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/3 cup sugar mixed with 2 tablespoons cinnamon

For the Filling

• 4 ounces white chocolate, chopped or broken into small pieces
• 2 tablespoons eggnog
• 1 tablespoon dark vanilla extract (alcohol-free) or 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (alcohol-free) (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Add Some Spice: Mix in a pinch of ginger or cloves for an extra kick of flavor.
• Change Up the Chocolate: Use milk chocolate or dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for a different taste.
• Nutty Twist: Fold in some finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the cookie dough for added texture.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or plant-based butter and use dairy-free chocolate for a vegan version.

How to Make Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and turn out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugars

In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together the unsalted butter and both sugars until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which helps create soft cookies. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl halfway through!

Step 3: Mix in Egg and Vanilla

Next, add in the room temperature egg and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is creamy and well combined. The egg adds moisture while helping bind everything together—essential for those soft cookie centers we love!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add in all-purpose flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. If your ingredients look lumpy, sifting them can help ensure a smooth dough. Mix until just combined; over-mixing can lead to tough cookies.

Step 5: Form Cookie Balls

Scoop out tablespoon-sized balls (about 15 grams if you want precision) of dough. Roll them in cinnamon sugar before placing them on a parchment-lined cookie sheet. Press down gently in the centers with your finger or thumb—this creates that lovely thumbprint shape!

Step 6: Bake Your Cookies

Pop those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for about 7 minutes. Keep an eye on them! If they lose their indentations during baking, gently press them back down while they’re still warm.

Step 7: Make the Ganache Filling

To create the filling, combine chopped white chocolate, eggnog, and optional vanilla extract in a bowl. Microwave at short intervals (15 seconds), stirring between each until melted. It might seem loose right away but will thicken as it cools.

Step 8: Fill Your Cookies

Once baked cookies have cooled slightly, fill each thumbprint with about half a teaspoon of ganache filling. Sprinkle freshly grated nutmeg on top for that extra holiday flair! Allow them to set at room temperature or pop them in the fridge if you’re short on time.

And there you have it! A plate full of Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies that will surely brighten up any holiday celebration! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these tips, you’ll be set up for success with your Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, egg, and other ingredients to room temperature helps create a smooth, creamy mixture that results in fluffy cookies.
• Don’t skip the chilling: Allow the dough to chill for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and ensures your cookies keep their shape while baking.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens can vary in temperature, so check your cookies a minute or two before the suggested bake time. You want them lightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center.
• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to get creative! While the white chocolate ganache is delicious, you can try adding spices like cinnamon or even a splash of flavored extract to personalize your filling.
• Let them cool completely: Allow your cookies to cool fully before storing or serving. This ensures that the ganache has set properly and makes for easier handling.

How to Serve Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

These festive cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family nights. Presenting them beautifully will elevate their charm and make them even more enticing!

Garnishes

• Freshly grated nutmeg: A sprinkle of nutmeg not only adds flavor but also enhances the festive aesthetic.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar over the tops of cookies can add a comforting aroma and look that resonates with holiday vibes.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa: Rich, creamy hot cocoa pairs beautifully with these cookies, balancing sweetness with warmth—perfect for chilly evenings!
• Spiced chai tea: The warm spices in chai complement the flavors of eggnog perfectly—it’s a cozy drink that makes every cookie bite feel like a hug from within.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside these thumbprint cookies creates a delightful contrast in textures and temperatures.
• Fruit platter: A fresh fruit platter with seasonal fruits like pears and apples provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet richness of the cookies.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies! Happy baking and happy holidays!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for your holiday baking plans. You can easily make the dough ahead of time or store the finished cookies, ensuring you always have a festive treat on hand!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• If you want to keep them fresher longer, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Freeze the unbaked cookie dough by rolling it into balls and placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen solid, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to 3 months.
• To bake, add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time when using frozen dough.

Reheating

• If you prefer warm cookies, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies.

Can I make Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies without eggs?

Yes! You can replace the egg with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon of seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) to maintain moisture and binding in your cookies.

How do I ensure my Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies stay soft?

To keep your cookies soft, be careful not to overbake them. Take them out when they are slightly underdone; they will continue to set as they cool.

What’s the best way to add flavor to my Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies?

Using high-quality vanilla extract and freshly grated nutmeg will enhance the flavor significantly. You can also experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies! They capture all the warmth and spirit of the holiday season in every bite. Whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or enjoying them yourself, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and laughter!