Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies are the perfect festive treat to elevate your holiday celebrations. These soft, cinnamon sugar cookies are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them ideal for cookie exchanges, gift boxes, or simply indulging yourself. The delightful eggnog ganache filling topped with freshly grated nutmeg adds a unique touch that captures the essence of Christmas in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavor: The combination of eggnog and cinnamon creates a warm, inviting flavor profile that embodies the holiday spirit.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these delightful cookies with ease.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for various occasions, these cookies make excellent gifts and are a hit at holiday parties.
• Beautiful Presentation: The thumbprint design filled with creamy ganache looks impressive on any dessert table.
• Family-Friendly: These cookies are a fun activity to enjoy with family during the holiday season.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools is essential for making Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies successfully. The following equipment will help streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Cookie sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
• Cookie sheet: A good-quality cookie sheet allows for even baking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.

Ingredients

To create these delightful Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cookies

• 4 ounces (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
• ½ cup light brown sugar, gently packed
• ¼ cup white granulated sugar
• 1 medium egg (about 50 grams), room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 245 grams all-purpose flour (about 2 cups if measured by volume – see notes)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/3 cup sugar mixed with 2 tablespoons cinnamon

For the Filling

• 4 ounces white chocolate, chopped or broken into small pieces
• 2 tablespoons eggnog
• 1 tablespoon dark vanilla extract (alcohol-free) or 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (alcohol-free) (optional – see notes)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

How to Make Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F to ensure it reaches the right temperature before baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
1. Cream together the unsalted butter and both sugars until light and fluffy.
2. Scrape down the sides once during mixing for even blending.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next:
1. Add the medium egg and vanilla extract.
2. Mix again until creamy and well combined, scraping down as needed.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add:
1. All-purpose flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and kosher salt.
2. If any ingredients are lumpy, sift them before mixing.
3. Mix until a thick dough forms.

Step 5: Form Cookies

Scoop:
1. Dough into tablespoon-sized balls (about 15 grams).
2. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
3. Place on a parchment-lined cookie sheet; press down centers using your thumb or a measuring spoon.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for:
1. About 7 minutes.
2. If indentations fill in during baking, gently press them back down while still warm.

Step 7: Prepare Filling

Make the filling by:
1. Combining chopped white chocolate, eggnog, and optional vanilla extract in a bowl.
2. Microwave at 15-second intervals while stirring until melted; add grated nutmeg if desired.

Step 8: Fill Cookies

Once cookies have cooled slightly:
1. Fill each thumbprint with about ½ teaspoon of filling.
2. Top with freshly grated nutmeg.
3. Let filling set at room temperature or refrigerate for quicker results.

Now you have an irresistible batch of Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies ready to share! Enjoy every festive bite!

How to Serve Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies are not only delightful on their own but can also be served in various ways to enhance your holiday gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your cookie experience even more enjoyable.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee or Tea: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
• Hot Chocolate: Enjoy them with rich hot chocolate, adding extra sweetness and warmth.

As Part of a Cookie Platter

• Assorted Cookies: Combine these cookies with other holiday favorites like gingerbread or peppermint bark for a festive dessert spread.
• Decorative Presentation: Use a decorative platter to showcase the cookies, adding some seasonal decorations for visual appeal.

As Gifts

• Cookie Jars: Fill mason jars with these cookies tied with festive ribbons for thoughtful gifts.
• Holiday Treat Bags: Create personalized treat bags filled with these thumbprint cookies to share with friends and neighbors.

How to Perfect Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

To ensure your Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Start with butter and egg at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before baking to help maintain its shape.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on baking time; remove the cookies when they are just set for a soft texture.
• Adjust Filling Consistency: If the filling is too runny, add more white chocolate until you achieve the desired thickness before filling the cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies are delightful on their own, but pairing them with side dishes can elevate your dessert table. Here are some excellent choices to complement your cookies.

1. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy cheeses pairs well and provides a savory contrast to the sweet flavors.
3. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits add color and freshness, making them a light side option next to richer sweets.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside scoops of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperature and taste.
5. Spiced Nuts: Crunchy spiced nuts offer a nice texture and flavor balance when enjoyed with soft cookies.
6. Whipped Cream Dip: A light whipped cream dip can be used for dipping, adding extra creaminess to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can ruin your cookie experience. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing and a less fluffy texture. Always let them sit out for about 30 minutes before you start.

• Not Measuring Flour Properly: Too much flour can make cookies dry and crumbly. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately for the best results.

• Ignoring Dough Resting Time: Rushing through the process can lead to tough cookies. Allow the dough to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before baking.

• Overbaking Cookies: Keeping cookies in the oven too long can result in a hard texture. Watch closely and remove them when they are just set and slightly golden around the edges.

• Neglecting Toppings: Skipping freshly grated nutmeg on top of the filling can miss adding that extra festive flavor. Don’t forget this finishing touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

• Freeze unfilled cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months; just thaw before adding filling.

Reheating Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie on low power for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a pan on low heat, cover, and warm cookies gently for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies:

How Do I Make Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies Vegan?

You can substitute butter with plant-based margarine and replace the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water).

Can I Use Dark Chocolate Instead of White Chocolate?

Yes! Dark chocolate gives a different flavor profile but works well as an alternative in the filling.

What Can I Replace Eggnog With?

If you don’t have eggnog, you can mix milk with vanilla extract and a pinch of nutmeg as an excellent substitute.

How Long Do Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies Last?

These cookies last up to one week when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I Add Nuts or Other Fillings?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your thumbprints with chopped nuts or other flavored fillings like caramel or fruit preserves.

Final Thoughts

Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday celebration. Their soft texture paired with rich ganache makes them irresistible. You can easily customize these treats by experimenting with toppings or fillings, making them versatile enough for various occasions. Don’t hesitate—try making these festive cookies today!