Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking to add a cozy, nostalgic twist to your holiday cookie lineup, this Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. I first baked these during a chilly December weekend, and ever since, they’ve become my go-to treat whenever the eggnog cravings hit. These buttery cookies, filled with a sweet, lightly spiked icing and topped with a sprinkle of nutmeg, feel like a warm hug in every bite. Trust me, once you make them, you’ll want to keep them on your festive baking rotation year after year.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies Recipe lies in the balance of rich butter, warm spices, and that unmistakable eggnog-inspired icing. When choosing your ingredients, I always recommend fresh butter and pure vanilla extract to boost those deep, comforting flavors.

• Butter: Use softened unsalted butter for maximum creaminess and control over salt levels in your dough.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness with a subtle crunch in the cookie texture.
• Light Brown Sugar: Brings moisture and a hint of caramel flavor that pairs wonderfully with eggnog notes.
• Egg: Helps bind the dough and adds tenderness to the cookies.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Elevates the overall flavor and complements the spiced rum in the icing.
• All-purpose Flour: The base for a tender yet sturdy cookie that holds its shape.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• Powdered Sugar: Used in the icing for a smooth, sweet finish.
• Captain Morgan Spiced Rum: Gives the icing a lovely boozy warmth – but you can substitute with vanilla or almond extract if you prefer non-alcoholic.
• Ground Nutmeg: A classic eggnog spice that finishes the cookies with a festive touch.

Variations

I love how versatile this Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies Recipe is. Over the years, I’ve experimented a bit by tweaking the filling and even swapping in different spices — and honestly, it’s fun to make it your own and match your family’s favorite holiday flavors.

• Boozy Swap: If you’re not a fan of spiced rum, try using vanilla or almond extract in the icing; it’s just as delicious and kiddie-approved.
• Nutty Touch: Adding finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the cookie dough gives a nice crunch and extra depth.
• Spice It Up: Experiment by mixing cinnamon or allspice into the dough or dust on top along with nutmeg for a more complex flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: I’ve successfully subbed in a gluten-free baking blend with great results, so feel free to make that swap to suit dietary needs.

How to Make Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Start by beating the softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. I like to use a stand mixer for this part because it saves my arm from getting tired, but a hand mixer works just as well. This step is key — it helps give the cookies a tender crumb and just the right amount of sweetness.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined. This adds moisture and enhances the flavors—you’ll notice your kitchen starts smelling fantastic right about now. Make sure to scrape down the sides so no pockets of flour or sugar are hiding.

Step 3: Mix in Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this to your butter mixture, mixing on low speed until the dough just comes together. Don’t overmix here — overworking the dough can make the cookies tough, and we want them melt-in-your-mouth soft.

Step 4: Form and Bake the Cookies

Roll the dough into small balls—about 1 inch each—and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Then, gently press your thumb or the back of a teaspoon into the center of each ball to create a little well for the icing. Bake for 12 minutes at 350°F (175°C), until edges are just turning golden. Resist the urge to overbake — these cookies keep a beautiful soft texture when taken out at the right time.

Step 5: Prepare the Spiced Rum Icing

While the cookies cool, mix the softened butter, powdered sugar, and Captain Morgan Spiced Rum to make a smooth, creamy icing. This part always gets my family excited — that rich, spiced aroma gives these cookies that signature festive touch. If you’re skipping alcohol, 1 teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract added here works beautifully.

Step 6: Fill and Garnish

Spoon or pipe the icing into each cookie’s thumbprint indentation. Finally, dust with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg to bring that classic eggnog vibe to life. Let the cookies set for at least 20 minutes so the icing firms up a bit before serving.

How to Serve Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I love to keep it simple — just a light dusting of ground nutmeg really brings out the festive eggnog flavor. Sometimes I sprinkle a little cinnamon for extra warmth or top with a few tiny edible gold stars when serving at holiday parties to make them feel extra special.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of hot spiced cider, a mug of creamy hot chocolate, or even a small glass of chilled eggnog if you want to double down on the flavors. My family raves when I serve them alongside this trio during cold winter evenings.

Creative Ways to Present

A colorful holiday platter with fresh cranberries, sprigs of rosemary, and sparkling sugar dust makes these cookies pop visually and smell amazing. For gift-giving, I like stacking them in clear boxes tied with twine and a sprig of cinnamon stick — it feels rustic and festive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they stay perfectly fresh for up to 5 days. Just remember to keep them separate from strong-smelling foods, so the eggnog flavors stay pure and vibrant.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, the cookie dough freezes beautifully. I like to form the balls, freeze them on a sheet tray first, then transfer to a freezer bag—bake fresh from frozen, adding a minute or two to baking time. The baked cookies can be frozen too, but I find the icing blackens a bit after thawing, so icing frozen cookies after thaw works best.

Reheating

For me, these cookies are best enjoyed fresh or at room temperature. But if you want to warm them slightly, a few seconds in the microwave (10-15 seconds) works well. Just avoid overheating or the icing might melt too much.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so heartwarming about baking Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies Recipe that feels like welcoming the holidays right into your kitchen. I love how easy yet impressive they are to make, and the fact that I can tweak the boozy filling to fit any crowd makes them a winner for parties or cozy nights in. I highly recommend giving these a try—you might just find yourself sneaking a few before everyone else shows up. Happy baking, friend!

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