Eggnog Snickerdoodles

These Eggnog Snickerdoodles are the perfect treat for the holiday season. Soft and chewy, they capture the essence of eggnog with every bite. With a delightful crunch on the edges, these cookies will remind you of cozy family gatherings. Ideal for Christmas parties or simply to enjoy at home, they are quick to make and require no chilling time, making them a convenient choice for festive baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: No need to chill the dough! You can whip up these cookies without waiting.
• Delicious Flavor: The unique eggnog flavor combined with spices like nutmeg makes these cookies stand out.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy a pillowy center with a slight crispness around the edges—perfectly balanced!
• Versatile Treat: Great for various occasions, from holiday parties to casual family desserts.
• Kid-Friendly Recipe: Easy enough for kids to help with, making it a fun activity during the holidays.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Eggnog Snickerdoodles, gather your tools and get ready for a delightful kitchen experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort in creaming butter and sugar together smoothly.
• Measuring cups: Ensure precise measurements for consistent cookie results every time.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Eggnog Snickerdoodles, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (375 grams) (use up to 3 1/4 cup for thicker cookies)
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (226 grams) (softened)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (300 grams)
• 1 large egg
• 2 large egg yolks (in addition to the 1 large egg)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (alcohol-free)

For Coating

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67 grams)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

How to Make Eggnog Snickerdoodles

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350F (180C). Line cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat together:
1 cup unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

Blend until creamy. Remember to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl for even mixing.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add:
1 large egg
2 large egg yolks
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Beat until well combined and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients. Start with half of the dry mix on low speed. If necessary, add more flour if dough is too sticky.

Step 6: Prepare Coating Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together:
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Pour this mixture onto a small plate.

Step 7: Shape Cookies

Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie using a medium cookie scoop. Roll each scoop into a ball and then roll in the sugar-nutmeg mixture.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Place cookie balls about 2 inches apart on lined sheets. Bake one sheet at a time in the middle of your preheated oven for about 9-12 minutes or until tops are just set.

Step 9: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on the sheets for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks or serving platters.

Enjoy your delightful batch of Eggnog Snickerdoodles!

How to Serve Eggnog Snickerdoodles

Eggnog snickerdoodles are not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve them. Whether for a festive gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies can be enjoyed in various delightful ways.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pairing your cookies with cold milk enhances the flavor and adds creaminess.

Warmed Up

• Heating the cookies slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds makes them extra soft and gooey, perfect for indulging.

Cookie Platter

• Arrange eggnog snickerdoodles on a festive platter alongside other holiday treats for an impressive dessert table.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or spiced tea to balance the sweetness and add warmth.

Gift-Wrapped

• Pack a dozen in a decorative box or jar as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family during the holidays.

How to Perfect Eggnog Snickerdoodles

To achieve the best results with your eggnog snickerdoodles, consider these helpful tips.

• Use softened butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and optimal texture.
• Measure flour accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour correctly, preventing dry cookies.
• Chill dough slightly if needed: If your dough feels too sticky, chill it briefly in the fridge before baking to make rolling easier.
• Avoid overbaking: Keep an eye on the cookies; they should look set but still soft when you take them out of the oven.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the nutmeg or add cinnamon for an extra flavor kick.

Best Side Dishes for Eggnog Snickerdoodles

Eggnog snickerdoodles can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their festive charm. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Spiced Apple Cider
   A warm, sweet drink that pairs perfectly with the cookie’s flavors, making it ideal for chilly days.
2. Gingerbread Cookies
   Classic holiday treats that match well with eggnog snickerdoodles, providing a variety of textures and spices.
3. Pumpkin Pie
   This traditional dessert adds seasonal flair, balancing the sweetness of both treats nicely.
4. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels
   The salty crunch of pretzels coated in chocolate offers a delightful contrast to the sweet cookies.
5. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses can provide savory options that complement sweet snacks like eggnog snickerdoodles.
6. Fruit Salad
   Fresh fruits lighten up your dessert table while adding natural sweetness and brightness alongside your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking cookies can be tricky, especially when it comes to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Bold Measurement Errors: Not measuring flour correctly can lead to dense cookies. Always use a spoon to fluff the flour before scooping it into your measuring cup.
• Bold Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can cause tough cookies. Beat the ingredients just until combined for soft and chewy Eggnog Snickerdoodles.
• Bold Skipping the Dry Ingredients Mixing: Adding dry ingredients all at once can lead to uneven distribution. Mix them in half at a time for a consistent dough.
• Bold Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can result in flat cookies. Always preheat your oven to 350F (180C) before baking.
• Bold Ignoring Cooling Time: Letting cookies cool on the sheet helps them set properly. Allow at least 10 minutes on the cookie sheets before transferring them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Eggnog Snickerdoodles in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing Eggnog Snickerdoodles

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Eggnog Snickerdoodles

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350F (180C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Bold Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds until soft.
• Bold Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Eggnog Snickerdoodles, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

How do I make Eggnog Snickerdoodles more festive?

You can add holiday spices like cinnamon or cloves for extra flavor, or sprinkle colored sugar on top before baking.

Can I use different types of sugar?

Yes! Brown sugar can add moisture and depth to your Eggnog Snickerdoodles, giving them a chewier texture.

What if I don’t have cream of tartar?

You can substitute cream of tartar with an equal amount of baking powder. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the taste.

How should I store leftover Eggnog Snickerdoodles?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Eggnog Snickerdoodles are not only simple to make but also embody the festive spirit of the holidays with their delightful flavor and soft texture. Feel free to customize by adding chocolate chips or nuts for a personal touch. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these treats with family and friends!