Eggnog Snickerdoodles

These Eggnog Snickerdoodles are the perfect festive treat for the holiday season. With their soft, chewy texture and delightful eggnog flavor, they evoke the warmth and cheer of Christmas. These cookies are easy to make and don’t require any chilling time for the dough, making them a quick and enjoyable addition to your holiday baking lineup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: No need to chill the dough—these cookies come together quickly for an instant holiday treat.
• Festive Flavor: The blend of nutmeg and vanilla gives these snickerdoodles a unique twist that captures the essence of eggnog.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy a perfect balance of softness in the center with a slight crunch on the edges.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or cozy nights at home with loved ones.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Get the kids involved in rolling the dough balls—baking is always more fun together!

Tools and Preparation

To whip up these delicious Eggnog Snickerdoodles, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having them ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Medium cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These will help you cream the butter and sugar effectively, ensuring a smooth texture.
• Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients is crucial for accurate mixing.
• Cookie sheets: A good quality cookie sheet ensures even baking for perfectly cooked cookies.

Ingredients

These eggnog snickerdoodles are soft and chewy with a delicious eggnog flavor. Pillowy soft in the middle with a delicious crunch around the edges just like your favorite snickerdoodles. There’s no need to chill the dough, so it’s a simple Christmas cookie recipe that truly tastes like the holidays.

For the Dough

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (375 grams) (use up to 3 1/4 cup for thicker cookies)
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (226 grams) (softened but not starting to melt – it should still be slightly firm to the touch)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (300 grams)
• 1 large egg
• 2 large egg yolks (in addition to the 1 large egg)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (alcohol-free)

For Coating

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67 grams)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

How to Make Eggnog Snickerdoodles

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350F (180C). Line cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Cream of tartar
3. Ground nutmeg (2 teaspoons)
4. Baking soda
5. Salt

Set this mixture aside as you prepare your wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat together:
1. Softened butter
2. Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups)

Continue beating until well creamed. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in:
1. Large egg
2. Two additional egg yolks
3. Alcohol-free vanilla extract

Beat until fully combined and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in your dry ingredients into the butter mixture about half at a time while mixing on low speed. Ensure no sticky dough remains; if it does, add more flour by tablespoon until it’s manageable.

Step 6: Prepare Coating Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. Granulated sugar (1/3 cup)
2. Ground nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon)

Transfer this mixture onto a small plate for coating.

Step 7: Form Cookie Balls

Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough using a medium cookie scoop. Roll each scoop into a ball, then roll in the sugar-nutmeg mixture.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Place cookie dough balls on lined cookie sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake one sheet at a time in your preheated oven for about 9-12 minutes or until tops look just set.

Step 9: Cool Cookies

Allow cookies to cool on sheets for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks or serving plates.

Enjoy your Eggnog Snickerdoodles! They are sure to become a holiday favorite!

How to Serve Eggnog Snickerdoodles

Eggnog snickerdoodles are a festive treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights at home, or as gifts for friends and family. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your eggnog snickerdoodles experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee – Pair your cookies with a warm cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
• Hot Chocolate – Enjoy these cookies with rich hot chocolate topped with whipped cream for a sweet indulgence.
• Tea – A comforting cup of herbal or spiced tea complements the eggnog flavors beautifully.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Platter – Arrange the eggnog snickerdoodles on a festive platter alongside other holiday cookies for an inviting dessert spread.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches – Sandwich your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a creamy twist.

Gift Packaging

• Gift Bags – Pack the cookies in decorative bags tied with ribbons for thoughtful holiday gifts.
• Mason Jars – Layer the cookies in mason jars for a charming presentation that friends will love.

How to Perfect Eggnog Snickerdoodles

To ensure your eggnog snickerdoodles turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Bold Butter Temperature – Use softened butter at room temperature, which helps create the ideal cookie texture.
• Bold Measure Flour Carefully – Spoon and level the flour instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid dense cookies.
• Bold Mix Thoroughly – Ensure all ingredients are well combined; this prevents uneven flavors in your cookies.
• Bold Watch Baking Time – Keep an eye on baking time; remove cookies when they look just set to maintain softness.
• Bold Experiment with Spices – Feel free to adjust nutmeg levels based on your taste preference or add cinnamon for extra warmth.

Best Side Dishes for Eggnog Snickerdoodles

Eggnog snickerdoodles make a fantastic dessert, but they can also be complemented by delicious side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside them.

1. Bold Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Bold Cheese Board – Include a selection of cheeses and crackers; their savory notes contrast nicely with sweet treats.
3. Bold Holiday Punch – Serve a chilled punch made from fruit juices and spices for a festive drink option.
4. Bold Pecan Pie Bites – Mini pecan pie bites offer another sweet layer to your dessert table, perfect for sharing.
5. Bold Roasted Nuts – A mix of roasted nuts brings crunch and savory flavor, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
6. Bold Spiced Applesauce – This warm side dish pairs well with the flavors in eggnog snickerdoodles while adding moisture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking eggnog snickerdoodles can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Boldly measure your ingredients – Failing to measure flour accurately can lead to dry or overly wet dough. Use a kitchen scale for precision or spoon the flour into a measuring cup and level it off.
• Don’t skip the creaming step – Creaming butter and sugar properly is essential for texture. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy for the best results.
• Avoid overmixing the dough – Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until all ingredients are combined; stop as soon as you don’t see dry flour.
• Mind your oven temperature – Baking at too high or too low of a temperature can affect the cookie’s rise and texture. Always preheat and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Watch the baking time closely – Leaving cookies in the oven too long can result in dryness. Check them a minute or two before the recommended time for perfect softness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store eggnog snickerdoodles in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Freezing Eggnog Snickerdoodles

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Eggnog Snickerdoodles

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate for quick warmth.
• Stovetop – Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, flipping gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about eggnog snickerdoodles:

Can I substitute any ingredients in Eggnog Snickerdoodles?

Yes! You can use gluten-free flour or dairy-free alternatives if needed. Just ensure that any substitutions maintain the right consistency.

How do I achieve soft eggnog snickerdoodles?

To keep your cookies soft, avoid overbaking them. They should look set but still soft when you take them out of the oven.

What is the best way to add more flavor to my Eggnog Snickerdoodles?

You can experiment with spices like cinnamon or even add citrus zest for a refreshing twist!

Can I make Eggnog Snickerdoodles ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight before baking, or bake them ahead and freeze.

Final Thoughts

Eggnog snickerdoodles are not only soft and chewy but also embody the essence of holiday flavors. Their versatility allows you to customize with different spices or toppings, making them perfect for any festive occasion. Try this recipe today, and enjoy delightful cookies that bring joy to every gathering!