There’s just something magical about eggnog during the holiday season—smooth, creamy, and perfectly spiced, it’s like a warm hug in a glass. But why stop at drinking it when you can bake it? These Eggnog Cookies with Nutmeg Frosting bring that festive flavor to life in soft, buttery bites. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just want a cozy baking project, these cookies are the ultimate treat to spread some cheer.
If you adore the creamy, nostalgic taste of eggnog, these cookies are your holiday must-bake! They’re melt-in-your-mouth tender with a frosting that dreams are made of.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- **Holiday Perfection**: These cookies are the essence of Christmas in every bite.
- **Easy Ingredients**: No fancy pantry items here—you probably already have most of what you need.
- **Incredible Texture**: Buttery, soft cookies that practically dissolve in your mouth.
- **Impressive Yet Simple**: They look like bakery-level cookies but are so easy to make at home.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Cookies:
- Flour: A simple all-purpose flour works perfectly here. Be sure to measure it properly to avoid over-dense cookies.
- Eggnog: Use your favorite brand or even homemade. It adds moisture and that classic holiday flavor.
- Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These warming spices bring out the cozy, festive vibes.
- Butter: Room temperature butter gives these cookies their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Sugar: A mix of granulated and brown sugar ensures the perfect balance of sweetness and softness.
For the Nutmeg Frosting:
- Powdered Sugar: Key for a smooth, creamy frosting consistency.
- Butter: Unsalted and softened butter is the base for the frosting.
- More Eggnog: Just a splash brings it all together with that classic flavor.
- Nutritional Nutmeg: The star topping that ties everything together.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how you’ll bake your way to holiday cookie bliss:
- **Prep Your Ingredients**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. Gather all your ingredients so they’re ready to go!
- **Mix the Dough:** In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolks, vanilla, and eggnog. Then, gradually stir in the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg) until just combined.
- **Shape the Cookies**: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out dough and roll it into balls. Place them on your prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.
- **Bake**: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before frosting.
- **Make the Frosting**: Beat the powdered sugar and butter together until smooth. Add the eggnog a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency (thick but spreadable). Spread the frosting onto the cooled cookies and sprinkle with a touch of ground nutmeg.

Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Room Temp Ingredients: For the best texture, make sure your butter and eggnog are at room temperature before starting.
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies should still look slightly soft in the center when you take them out; they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Customize the Spice: Prefer more spice? Add a pinch of ground cloves or a splash of rum extract for a deeper flavor.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
Variations:
- Gluten-Free: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
- Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free eggnog and plant-based butter for the cookies and frosting.
- Festive Extras: Top with holiday sprinkles or a drizzle of white chocolate for a fun twist.
Serving Suggestions:
- Make these cookies the centerpiece of your dessert table!
- Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced tea or (of course) a glass of eggnog.
FAQs
- How do I store these cookies? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
- Can I freeze them? Yes! Freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer, then add frosting after thawing.
- Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! Refrigerate the cookie dough for up to 24 hours before baking.
Eggnog Cookies with Nutmeg Frosting Recipe Card
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg, plus more for garnish
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1/2 cup eggnog
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Frosting: 2 cups powdered sugar, 1/4 cup butter, 2-3 tbsp eggnog
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars. Add egg yolks, vanilla, and eggnog.
- Mix in dry ingredients until just combined. Scoop and shape dough into balls.
- Bake 10-12 minutes. Cool completely before frosting.
- For the frosting, beat powdered sugar, butter, and eggnog until smooth. Frost cookies and garnish with nutmeg.
I can’t wait for you to try these cookies—they truly are little bites of holiday magic. When you make them, don’t forget to share your creations with me using #TheKitchensAid on social media!