Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies: 24 Festive Treats for the Holidays

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Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies are buttery, festive cookies perfect for holiday celebrations. These delightful treats are soft and filled with a sweet, slightly boozy eggnog-flavored icing, dusted with warm nutmeg. They capture the essence of the holiday season, making them an irresistible addition to your festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies

There are countless reasons to adore these eggnog cookies. First, they are incredibly easy to make, perfect for bakers of all levels. Secondly, the flavor is a delightful blend of eggnog and nutmeg, making them an ideal spiced eggnog dessert for the holiday season. Thirdly, they are visually appealing with their thumbprint design, making them great for cookie exchanges. You’ll also appreciate the option to modify the recipe for dietary needs, like a gluten-free eggnog thumbprint cookie recipe. Finally, they pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, enhancing your holiday gatherings.

Ingredients for Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies

Gather these items:

¾ cup butter (softened)
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup packed light brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
¼ cup butter (softened)
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon Captain Morgan Spiced Rum (or substitute with milk or eggnog for a non-alcoholic version)
Ground nutmeg (for dusting, as needed)

How to Make Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing just until the dough forms and no dry flour remains.
Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, gently press an indentation into the center of each cookie ball to create a thumbprint.
Step 3: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the cookies are still soft. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet.
Step 4: While the cookies cool, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and Captain Morgan Spiced Rum until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with a little milk or powdered sugar if needed to get a spreadable icing.
Step 5: Once the cookies are cooled, spoon or pipe the boozy eggnog filling into each thumbprint indentation.
Step 6: Lightly dust each filled cookie with ground nutmeg for a warm, festive touch.
Step 7: Arrange the cookies on a serving platter. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Use room temperature butter for a smoother dough.
Don’t overbake; the cookies should remain soft in the center.
Experiment with different fillings like chocolate or caramel for variations.
For a dairy-free eggnog cookies recipe, substitute butter with vegan margarine.

Best Ways to Serve Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies

These holiday thumbprint cookies are perfect for various occasions. Serve them on a festive platter at your next holiday gathering, or include them in a cookie exchange. Pair them with a warm beverage like eggnog or hot cocoa for a delightful treat. You can also stack them in a decorative tin for gifting.

How to Store and Reheat Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to enjoy them later, they can be frozen for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature before serving. This makes them a great choice for meal prep during the busy holiday season!

Frequently Asked Questions About Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies?

The secret lies in not overmixing the dough and ensuring your ingredients are at room temperature. These tips help keep the cookies tender and flavorful, enhancing the eggnog flavor.

Can I make Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking. Alternatively, bake the cookies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container; they’ll maintain their flavor and texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies?

To avoid common mistakes, measure your flour accurately and don’t skip chilling the dough if it feels too soft to roll. This will help you achieve the perfect cookie shape and texture.

Variations of Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies You Can Try

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are several variations you can explore! Try making eggnog thumbprint cookies with frosting instead of icing, or add a touch of peppermint extract for a minty twist. You can also create a No-bake eggnog thumbprint cookies version by using a cookie base that doesn’t require baking. These adaptations allow everyone to enjoy the festive flavors of the season!