Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

There’s something magical about the scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. On a chilly evening, as the wind rustles through the trees outside, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven. I reach for my mixing bowl, and the sound of the electric mixer coming to life fills the air. It’s almost as if the rhythm of mixing syncs perfectly with the falling snow outside, creating a symphony of comfort and nostalgia. Today, I’m making Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies a delightful treat that captures the spirit of the season while warming your heart and home.

Why Make This Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies are not just a delicious dessert; they represent a beautiful blend of tradition and creativity that brings my family together. Growing up, my mom had a knack for making holiday treats that filled our home with joy. This recipe is an homage to those cherished times spent in the kitchen. The eggnog adds a rich creaminess, while the cinnamon-sugar coating evokes memories of cozy holiday gatherings.

For busy families like ours, these cookies are perfect. They are simple to make, and the process is engaging enough to involve the little ones. My girls love rolling the dough in cinnamon sugar and pressing their thumbs into each cookie giggling all the while as they indulge in easy kitchen fun. Baking these cookies creates a sense of connection, turning a simple moment into a chance to bond and share in laughter. It’s a festive activity that we all look forward to each year, resulting in sweet treats we can enjoy together.

How to Make Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

“Every time I stir this pot, it smells just like Sunday at home.”

Creating Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies is an adventure that starts with gathering ingredients. As I bring everything together, I can almost taste the warmth of the holidays. The kitchen fills with sweet notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and melting chocolate, and there’s excitement in the air as the cookies begin to take form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these delightful Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies, you will need:

• 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
• 4 ounces white chocolate, chopped or broken into small pieces
• 2 tablespoons eggnog
• 1 tablespoon dark rum or 1/4 teaspoon rum extract *optional see notes
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Each ingredient serves a purpose, bringing texture and flavor that harmonizes beautifully. Fresh nutmeg enhances the aroma, and I always recommend using fresh spices if possible. It brings a brightness that you just can’t replicate with pre-packaged items.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, scraping down the sides once to ensure everything is mixed well.
3. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix again until creamy and combined, scraping down the sides once more.
4. Add the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. If your ingredients are lumpy, it’s best to sift them together first. Mix until a thick dough forms.
5. Using a cookie scoop or your hands, scoop the dough into 1 tablespoon-sized balls (about 15 grams if you want to be precise).
6. Roll the balls in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until they are fully coated. Place them on a parchment-lined cookie sheet.
7. Press down the centers of the cookies with a ½ teaspoon or your thumb. If the dough cracks, simply press it back together.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 7 minutes. You want them to be slightly underbaked to maintain the soft texture. If you find the indentation has filled in during baking, gently press down in the center again with the same instrument you used before.
9. For the filling, combine the white chocolate, eggnog, and optional rum or extract in a bowl. Microwave it in 15-second intervals, stirring in between each, until the chocolate is melted. Add freshly grated nutmeg if desired. You can also use a double boiler for this step.
10. The filling will be quite loose at first, but it will set as it cools. After removing the cookies from the oven, fill each with about 1/2 teaspoon of filling and top with more freshly grated nutmeg.
11. Allow the cookies to cool on the tray for a few minutes. They will set up as they cool. For quicker setting, you can place them in the refrigerator.

Serving Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies at the Family Table

When it comes time to serve my Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies, it’s always a heartwarming occasion. I gently place them on a festive platter, and as the family gathers around the table, it brings an overwhelming sense of joy and comfort. The warmth of the cookies emits a cozy steam that invites everyone in.

Laughter fills the air as we share stories, connect over hot cups of cocoa, and enjoy each gooey-filled bite. The golden edges of each cookie are a perfect contrast to the white chocolate filling, creating a festive visual feast before our eyes. It’s moments like these that create memories everyone eagerly reaching for another cookie, sharing smiles, and reveling in our connection. The kitchen buzzes with energy as we savor both the cookies and each other’s company.

Storing and Reheating Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

If you happen to have leftovers which can be a stretch in our house storing your Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies is simple. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, you can also refrigerate them. Just ensure they are sealed properly to avoid any moisture.

Should you desire to freeze some for later, lay the cookies on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Afterward, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for about 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw at room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat. The flavors deepen overnight, so that next-day treat can feel even more special.

Quick Tips from My Kitchen

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This helps achieve that perfect creamy texture and aids in even baking.
2. Don’t Overmix: When adding the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can create tough cookies instead of tender ones.
3. Experiment with Fillings: While the white chocolate gives a rich flavor, you can substitute it with dark chocolate or even a caramel filling for a different twist.
4. Fresh Spices Matter: Whenever possible, use freshly grated nutmeg and good-quality cinnamon. They elevate the flavor and aroma immeasurably.
5. Taste as You Go: I always encourage everyone to taste their cookie dough. It’s a fun way to enjoy the cooking process while ensuring everything is just right!

Variations on Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

I love to experiment with different takes on this delicious treat. In our house, we sometimes switch up the filling based on what’s in season or what we have on hand. For instance, using cranberry sauce or a spiced apple filling can create delightful surprises. You can also mix in a splash of different flavored extracts like almond or peppermint to give the cookies a unique twist.

Another fun variation has been to swap out the eggnog with other flavored creamers. Each gives a slightly different taste that can make the cookies feel new and exciting. These adaptations keep the recipe fresh and fun. After all, joy in cooking often comes from letting your creativity shine!

Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

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• Author: cookthatdish
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delightful cookies that blend eggnog and snickerdoodle flavors, perfect for the holiday season.

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Ingredients

• 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)
• 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
• 4 ounces white chocolate, chopped
• 2 tablespoons eggnog
• 1 tablespoon dark rum or 1/4 teaspoon rum extract (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy in a stand mixer.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
4. Incorporate flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt; mix until a thick dough forms.
5. Scoop dough into 1 tablespoon-sized balls and roll in cinnamon-sugar mixture.
6. Place on a parchment-lined cookie sheet and press centers down with a thumb.
7. Bake for about 7 minutes, slightly underbaking them for a soft texture.
8. For the filling, microwave white chocolate, eggnog, and optional rum in 15-second intervals until melted.
9. Fill each cookie with about 1/2 teaspoon of the filling and top with nutmeg.
10. Allow cookies to cool on the tray for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for best results and avoid overmixing to ensure tender cookies. Fresh spices are recommended for enhanced flavor.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

FAQs About Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in the morning before the kids wake up and finish baking just before dinner. This keeps the freshness intact while saving you time later.

Can I use different types of chocolate for the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and experiment with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips.

How should I store these cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for about two months.

What if I don’t have rum?
No worries! If you’re not a fan of alcohol, you can simply omit the rum or substitute it with rum extract for that same lovely flavor.

A Final Thought

As I put the last batch of Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies on the table, I’m reminded of how cooking brings us together. It creates a tangible bond filled with memories, laughter, and love. Each batch is a little piece of our family’s story, a way to share joy not just through the act of baking but through the moments we create along the way.

So, here’s to many more days spent in the kitchen, stirring up memories and savoring the flavors of comfort that fill our homes. Cooking is a joy, not a chore, and these cookies are a perfect reminder to cherish those small moments together.