As the holiday season approaches, the scent of warm spices and sweet treats fills the air, creating an inviting atmosphere that beckons you to the kitchen. I recently discovered a delightful twist on traditional cookies that captures all the festive cheer: Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies. These soft, scrumptious delights are a perfect blend of nostalgia and seasonal flavors, featuring a velvety eggnog ganache filling that melts in your mouth.
Picture this: the comforting aroma of cinnamon mingling with nutmeg as you roll the cookie dough in cinnamon sugar, awakening memories of cozy Christmas gatherings. Whether you're planning a festive cookie exchange, looking for the perfect gift, or simply indulging in a little holiday spirit at home, these cookies are sure to impress. Bonus? They come together easily, even if you're juggling a busy schedule. Let's make these festive delights that will add joy to any celebration!
Why are Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies a must-try?
Festive appeal: These cookies embody the holiday spirit with their warm spices and creamy filling, making them a delightful centerpiece for any gathering.
Easy to make: You won't need advanced baking skills-just a simple mixing bowl and a few ingredients!
Decadent filling: The eggnog ganache adds a luxurious touch, ensuring every bite is a blissful reminder of holiday cheer.
Customizable: Whether you love the classic taste or want to add a rum kick, these cookies can adapt to your preferences. Check out the variation ideas for more inspiration!
Perfect for gifting: Pack them in pretty boxes for neighbors or friends, and watch their faces light up with joy!
With all these reasons, you'll understand why these cookies are destined to become a holiday favorite!
Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- Unsalted Butter (4 ounces or 1 stick) - Provides richness and structure; stick to regular butter for best results.
- Light Brown Sugar (½ cup, gently packed) - Adds moisture and a deeper flavor to the cookies.
- White Granulated Sugar (¼ cup) - Sweetens the cookies and promotes browning for that perfect texture.
- Medium Egg (1, about 50 grams) - Binds the ingredients together; using a room temperature egg enhances the mixing process.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) - Elevates the overall flavor profile of these delightful cookies.
- All-Purpose Flour (245 grams or about 2 cups) - Creates the structure of the cookie; measuring accurately ensures the ideal texture.
- Kosher Salt (¼ teaspoon) - Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.
- Baking Soda (¼ teaspoon) - Functions as a leavening agent, helping the cookies rise beautifully.
- Cream of Tartar (½ teaspoon) - Stabilizes the cookie structure and provides a subtle tang.
For Rolling Dough Balls
- Cinnamon Sugar - A delightful mixture for coating the cookie dough, adding a spiced crunch that complements the sweetness.
For Eggnog Ganache Filling
- White Chocolate (4 ounces) - Acts as the smooth base for the filling; go for high-quality chocolate for the best texture.
- Eggnog - Rich and flavorful, this is the star of the filling that brings that festive touch.
- Rum or Rum Extract - Optional for a boozy kick to enhance flavor; feel free to omit if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
- Ground Nutmeg (for garnish, optional) - Adds aromatic flair and visual appeal, making your cookies even more inviting.
These Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies are destined to be a showstopper at any holiday gathering!
How to Make Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies
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Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, cream the room temperature butter with the light brown and white sugars until fluffy and pale. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Then, add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Gradually add this dry mixture into the butter mixture until a thick dough forms. Do not over-mix!
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Form Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using your thumb or a measuring spoon, create a small indentation in the center of each dough ball.
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Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 7 minutes, or until the edges are set. If the indentations lose their shape, gently re-press them right after you take them out of the oven.
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Prepare Filling: Melt the white chocolate in the microwave or over a double boiler, then stir in the eggnog and optional rum until smooth. Allow this ganache to cool slightly so it thickens a bit.
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Fill Cookies: Using a spoon, fill each thumbprint with about ½ teaspoon of the eggnog ganache. Let them set at room temperature, or you can refrigerate them to speed up the process.
Optional: Dust with additional ground nutmeg for a festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. If you want to go a step further, roll the dough into balls and coat them in cinnamon sugar, then refrigerate until you're ready to bake. When you're set to enjoy these delightful cookies, just pop them into a preheated oven and bake as directed. For the eggnog ganache filling, you can also prepare that ahead and refrigerate it for up to 3 days-just allow it to come to room temperature before filling the cookies. Following these steps ensures your cookies will taste just as fresh and delicious, making holiday baking easier and more enjoyable!
Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and adjust these cookies to suit your tastes or dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
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Nutty Flavor: Substitute almond extract for vanilla for a lovely, nutty twist that adds a touch of warmth to the cookies.
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Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use coconut or vegan butter.
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Holiday Spice: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the dough for an extra burst of holiday flavor that enhances the nostalgic taste.
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Spiced Rum: If you want to elevate the flavor, use spiced rum instead of regular rum in the ganache for an added complexity.
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Chocolate Drizzle: After filling with ganache, drizzle melted dark chocolate on top for a decadently chocolatey finish that's pure bliss.
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Coconut Flakes: Fold shredded coconut into the ganache for a tropical twist that harmonizes beautifully with the rich eggnog flavor.
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Cranberry Surprise: Add dried cranberries to the dough before baking for a tart contrast to the sweetness, adding both flavor and beautiful color.
With these variations, you can tailor each batch of Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies to make them truly your own, creating new traditions each holiday season!
Expert Tips for Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for a smooth dough that helps create the perfect texture in your Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies.
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Perfect Indentation: Make your thumbprint deep enough to hold the ganache, but not so deep that it goes through the cookie. A measuring spoon can also help for consistent results.
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Watch the Bake Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies during baking. They should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center.
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Cooling Tips: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from breaking apart.
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Don't Skip the Ganache: The eggnog ganache filling is what makes these cookies shine! Allow it to cool slightly before filling to achieve the best texture.
How to Store and Freeze Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and soft.
Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate filled cookies, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: Freeze unfilled cookies for up to 3 months in an airtight container; just thaw at room temperature and fill them with ganache when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, gently reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy your Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies with that freshly baked feel!
What to Serve with Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies?
As you prepare to share these delightful cookies, consider complementing them with festive accompaniments that enhance their rich, spiced flavors.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of creamy hot chocolate creates a cozy atmosphere and balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
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Spiced Apple Cider: The tangy-sweet notes of spiced apple cider elevate the holiday spirit, pairing beautifully with the cinnamon and nutmeg in the cookies.
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Festive Cheeseboard: Consider a selection of cheeses, dried fruits, and nuts for a delightful contrast in textures, making your cookie platter even more irresistible.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream provides a creamy counterpart to the chewy cookie texture. Drizzle with chocolate syrup for an indulgent treat!
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Mandarin Oranges: Light and refreshing, the citrusy flavor of mandarin oranges cuts through the richness, offering a burst of freshness and color to your spread.
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Gingerbread Latte: Enjoy a warm, spiced gingerbread latte beside your cookies. The flavors harmonize perfectly, embracing the essence of the holiday season.
Each of these pairings not only complements your Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies but also adds an inviting touch to your festive celebrations. Enjoy!
Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies Recipe FAQs
How can I tell if my ingredients are fresh enough for baking?
Absolutely! For the best results, check that your butter is fresh and not overly soft or too hard. Eggs should have a clean shell and be at room temperature for optimal mixing. As for your flour, ensure it's stored in a cool, dry place and has no strange smells-typically, it can last for 6-12 months if unopened!
What's the best way to store leftovers?
Very easy! Store your Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer, you can place them in the refrigerator to extend their freshness, but do let them come back to room temperature for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Can I freeze my Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies?
Sure thing! If you'd like to freeze them, go ahead and freeze the unfilled cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature and fill them with ganache. This way, you can have homemade festive cookies when the craving strikes!
What if my dough is too sticky?
Don't worry; this can be easily fixed! If your dough feels excessively sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps it firm up and makes rolling it into dough balls a lot easier. If it's still too sticky, you can add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the right consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you're serving these cookies to guests with dietary restrictions, consider gluten-free flour as a substitute, or use flavored extracts like almond or maple for variety. Make sure to inform your guests if you use rum in the ganache, and keep an eye out for any allergies to ingredients like nuts or dairy.
How do I keep my ganache from seizing when melting?
Great question! When melting chocolate, always use small, incremental bursts of heat, whether in the microwave or double boiler. This helps maintain its creamy texture. Stir the chocolate often, and if it begins to seize, you can add a drop of vegetable oil or milk to smooth it out again. This will ensure your eggnog ganache is luscious and silky!
Delicious Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies You’ll Love
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- whisk
- baking sheet
- Parchment Paper
- measuring spoon
- Microwave or double boiler
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 4 ounces Unsalted Butter Provides richness and structure; stick to regular butter for best results.
- 0.5 cup Light Brown Sugar Adds moisture and a deeper flavor to the cookies.
- 0.25 cup White Granulated Sugar Sweetens the cookies and promotes browning for that perfect texture.
- 1 medium Egg Binds the ingredients together; using a room temperature egg enhances the mixing process.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Elevates the overall flavor profile of these delightful cookies.
- 245 grams All-Purpose Flour Creates the structure of the cookie; measuring accurately ensures the ideal texture.
- 0.25 teaspoon Kosher Salt Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.
- 0.25 teaspoon Baking Soda Functions as a leavening agent, helping the cookies rise beautifully.
- 0.5 teaspoon Cream of Tartar Stabilizes the cookie structure and provides a subtle tang.
For Rolling Dough Balls
- Cinnamon Sugar A delightful mixture for coating the cookie dough, adding a spiced crunch that complements the sweetness.
For Eggnog Ganache Filling
- 4 ounces White Chocolate Acts as the smooth base for the filling; go for high-quality chocolate for the best texture.
- Eggnog Rich and flavorful, this is the star of the filling that brings that festive touch.
- Rum or Rum Extract Optional for a boozy kick to enhance flavor; feel free to omit if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
- Ground Nutmeg For garnish, optional; adds aromatic flair and visual appeal.
Instructions
Steps
- In a mixing bowl, cream the room temperature butter with the light brown and white sugars until fluffy and pale, about 2-3 minutes. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Gradually add this dry mixture into the butter mixture until a thick dough forms. Do not over-mix!
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and create a small indentation in the center of each dough ball.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 7 minutes, or until the edges are set. If the indentations lose their shape, gently re-press them right after you take them out of the oven.
- Melt the white chocolate in the microwave or over a double boiler, then stir in the eggnog and optional rum until smooth. Allow this ganache to cool slightly so it thickens.
- Fill each thumbprint with about ½ teaspoon of the eggnog ganache. Let them set at room temperature or refrigerate to speed up the process.
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