Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies
Highlighted under: Artisan Dessert Bakes
Delight in the festive spirit with these Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies, perfect for holiday gatherings.
These Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies bring a taste of the holiday season into your kitchen. With a rich eggnog flavor and a sweet jam filling, they are a delightful treat for any festive occasion.
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- Rich eggnog flavor that embodies the holiday spirit
- Soft and chewy texture with a sweet jam center
- Perfect for gifting or holiday parties
The Perfect Holiday Treat
Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday cookie platter. Their rich flavor profile, infused with spices and the essence of eggnog, captures the warmth of the festive season. These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a hit at any gathering. They are an excellent way to showcase your baking skills while spreading holiday cheer.
The combination of soft, chewy cookies with a sweet jam center creates a delightful contrast that will keep your guests coming back for more. Each bite offers a burst of flavor, from the spiced dough to the fruity filling, making these cookies a memorable treat. Perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or simply indulging at home, they are sure to become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire.
Gifting and Sharing
These Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies are not only great for personal enjoyment but also make wonderful gifts. Package them in decorative boxes or tins, and add a festive ribbon for a charming presentation. Homemade cookies always carry a personal touch that store-bought alternatives cannot match, making them ideal for sharing with friends, family, and coworkers during the holiday season.
When sharing these cookies, consider including a note with the recipe. This allows others to recreate the joy of baking and savoring the delicious flavors of eggnog cookies. It's a thoughtful gesture that can inspire others to embrace the holiday spirit and experiment in their own kitchens.
Variations and Customizations
While the original recipe is delightful, there are numerous ways to customize these Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies. Consider experimenting with different flavored jams or even chocolate ganache for a unique twist. You could also enhance the dough with a splash of almond extract or substitute the rum with your favorite liqueur for a different flavor profile.
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, try adding chopped nuts to the dough or as a topping on the jam before baking. These variations can create new textures while maintaining the essence of the holiday flavors. Get creative and make these cookies your own to suit your taste or the preferences of your loved ones.
Ingredients
Cookies
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon rum or eggnog
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup jam (for filling, such as raspberry or apricot)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk, rum or eggnog, and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using your thumb, press down in the center of each ball to create a well.
Cool and Serve
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies!
Storage Tips
To keep your Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will maintain their delightful texture for up to a week. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature for a few hours. If you prefer, you can also pop them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their fresh-baked warmth. This way, you can savor the festive flavors of these cookies even after the holiday season.
Serving Suggestions
Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. Their cozy flavors complement warm beverages, making for a delightful afternoon treat. You can also serve them at holiday gatherings alongside other festive desserts to create a diverse dessert table that caters to various tastes.
For a special touch, consider dusting the cookies with powdered sugar before serving. This not only adds a beautiful presentation but also enhances the sweetness, making each bite feel even more indulgent. Whether enjoyed alone or as part of a festive spread, these cookies are sure to delight.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of jam?
Yes, feel free to use any flavor of jam that you prefer!
→ How should I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
→ Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dough or the baked cookies for up to three months.
→ What can I substitute for eggnog?
You can use a mixture of milk and a splash of rum or vanilla for a similar flavor.
Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies
Delight in the festive spirit with these Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Artisan Dessert Bakes
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
Cookies
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon rum or eggnog
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup jam (for filling, such as raspberry or apricot)
How-To Steps
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk, rum or eggnog, and vanilla, mixing until well combined. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using your thumb, press down in the center of each ball to create a well. Fill each well with a small amount of jam.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 1g