Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Frosting

Name: Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, plus more for topping; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 3/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup packed light-brown sugar; 2 large egg yolks; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp rum extract; 1/2 cup eggnog; 1/2 cup butter (for frosting); 3-5 Tbsp eggnog (for frosting); 3 cups powdered sugar

by Joudia Elise

Published on: January 10, 2026

Soft eggnog cookies with creamy frosting on a decorative plate

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Soft eggnog cookies with creamy frosting The Taste of Christmas in Every Bite arrive in my kitchen like an old friend, warm and familiar, carrying the scent of nutmeg and butter that curls through the house and gathers everyone by the counter. I remember the first winter I baked them for a small holiday party, how my children perched on stools and watched the dough fall from the spoon, and how one bite made my father close his eyes and smile. If you love trying simple holiday cookies, you might enjoy my spin on classics like Christmas pinwheel cookies while you plan a plate for friends and family.

Table of Contents

Why Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Frosting The Taste of Christmas in Every Bite Means So Much

There is a softness to these cookies that feels like a hug from the inside. They are not about being perfect or fancy. They are about a warm center and a creamy frosting that melts into the crumb, and about the way the kitchen smells of nutmeg and cinnamon for hours.

I made these cookies the year I learned to slow down at the holidays. Baking became a way to keep my children close, to teach them how to measure and taste, and to let them know that small hands can do kind things. That memory sits in the batter of every batch I mix now, and when I say Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Frosting The Taste of Christmas in Every Bite, I mean a bite full of those small, loving moments.

Family dinners, after-school snacks, and surprise plates for neighbors have all carried these cookies. They travel well, and they travel better when wrapped with a ribbon and a note. I love how one recipe can hold so many moments, and how a single oven timer can call the family together.

The Story Behind Our Favorite Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Frosting The Taste of Christmas in Every Bite

When I first tested this recipe, I wrote the notes in the margin of a worn recipe card that my mother kept. She had always loved eggnog in winter, and she would sip a small cup while watching the snow. Turning that flavor into a cookie felt like a gentle nod to her quiet traditions.

My first batch needed work. The dough was too flat, and the frosting was too thin. Back then I learned to trust the small clues that baking gives you. If the edges look set and the centers seem soft, the cookies will be tender. If you whisk the butter until it becomes pale and fluffy, the frosting will hold on the cookie like a soft blanket.

Over the years I have paired these cookies with savory meals and afternoon tea, and I find the contrast of creamy frosting against a slightly spiced cookie to be calming and celebratory at once. If you enjoy comfort food dinners after a day of holiday running, a warm plate of cookies feels like the best kind of reward, much like a bowl of my creamy garlic chicken pasta with spinach invites rest at the table.

What Makes This Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Frosting The Taste of Christmas in Every Bite Special

These cookies stay soft for days when stored properly, and they carry a cozy aroma that reminds you of winter evenings. The egg yolks give the dough richness without weighing it down, and a touch of rum extract deepens that classic eggnog note without any added alcohol.

The frosting is simple, and it should be just thick enough to hold its shape and just soft enough to melt slightly when the cookie meets your warm mouth. A light dusting of nutmeg on top finishes them with a tiny, fragrant touch that speaks of holiday cheer more than showy decorations do.

I like to think of these cookies as approachable for a shy baker and satisfying to a practiced hand. They do well at cookie swaps, at school parties, and on quiet nights when you need a small, sweet comfort.

How to Make Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Frosting The Taste of Christmas in Every Bite

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

There is a rhythm to making these cookies. Start by mixing the dry spices and flour until the air in the bowl smells gently of nutmeg. Creaming the butter and sugars is where the magic begins; you will watch the mix go from dull to glossy and pale, and you will know the frosting will be light if the butter becomes almost white under the beaters.

When you add the egg yolks, do it slowly and with care, so the dough stays tender and not greasy. Stirring in the eggnog and extracts brings the batter together with a soft sheen. Scooping the dough onto the tray is a small act of patience; spacing matters so each cookie can bloom without touching its neighbor.

Baking is a quiet watch. Wait for the edges to set, and let the centers rest on the baking sheet for a moment before you move them to a rack. When they are cool, spread the frosting with a small offset spatula, breathe in the aroma, and sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg for that tiny, festive finish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, plus more for topping
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
3/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed light-brown sugar
2 large egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp rum extract
1/2 cup eggnog
1/2 cup butter
3 -5 Tbsp eggnog
1/2 tsp rum extract
3 cups powdered sugar

These ingredients are simple and real. A little extra vanilla if you love a cozy aroma will make the frosting sing, and fresh butter gives this recipe its richness. If you use a store-bought eggnog, pick one you enjoy sipping, because its flavor carries through to the cookie.

If you want to keep this approachable, assemble your measured dry goods in small bowls before you begin. That habit makes the process calmer, especially if you have little helpers watching with flour-dusted noses.

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg and cinnamon for 30 seconds, set aside. Let the spices smell bright and fresh as you work, and keep the bowl near your station so you can add dry ingredients at a steady pace.
In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whip together butter, granulated sugar and brown sugar until pale and fluffy. You will see the color lift and the texture turn glossy; stop when the paddle leaves soft peaks and the mixture looks light.
Mix in egg yolks one at a time, blending just until combined after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract, rum extract and egg nog. With mixer set on low speed, slowly add in dry ingredients and mix just until combined. Watch for a soft dough that holds together without being sticky; it should pull away from the bowl gently.
Scoop dough out by the heaping tablespoonfuls and drop onto Silpat or parchment paper lined baking sheets, spacing cookies 2-inches apart. Press the tops ever so slightly if you want a smoother surface, and breathe in the warm scent of nutmeg as the tray fills.
Bake in preheated oven 11 – 13 minutes. Allow to rest on baking sheet several minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool. Wait for the edges to turn golden and then let them finish in the warm air of the baking sheet so they set up tenderly.
Cool completely then frost with Eggnog Frosting and sprinkle tops lightly with nutmeg. Take a moment to admire how the frosting settles into the soft tops, and let them rest until the frosting sets slightly before stacking.
In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whip butter until very pale and fluffy. Add in rum extract and 3 Tbsp eggnog and mix in powdered sugar. Keep the mixer low at first, then bring the speed up so the frosting becomes smooth and creamy.
Add additional eggnog to reach desired consistency. Aim for a spreadable frosting that clings to the cookies but will not drip. Stir until glossy and no lumps remain, then frost with a small offset spatula or a butter knife and finish with a pinch of nutmeg for scent.

Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Frosting The Taste of Christmas in Every Bite

Bringing Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Frosting The Taste of Christmas in Every Bite Together

Once the cookies are frosted, they have a cozy, homely look that invites sharing. I like to place them on a simple white platter so the warm tones of the cookie and the pale frosting show up. A small bowl of extra nutmeg or cinnamon on the side lets guests add a little extra scent if they like.

If you are bringing these to a party, stack them in layers with parchment between so the frosting does not stick. Wrapping a few in cellophane with a ribbon makes for a pretty neighbor gift and creates a moment of quiet joy as you hand it over.

These cookies also make a lovely addition to a dessert board with simple cheeses and dried fruit. The mild spice pairs well with soft cheeses, and the sweet frosting sings alongside tart jam on a cracker.

When I set a plate of cookies next to a pot of something savory, the balance makes the meal feel complete. If you want a full comfort meal idea to pair them with, a simple roast or my asado chicken with lemon zucchini makes an easy, family-friendly dinner before dessert.

Serving Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Frosting The Taste of Christmas in Every Bite With Family Warmth

These cookies are best enjoyed with company. I place a few on a small dessert stand in the living room and let people nibble while we wrap gifts or talk about the day. The glow of the kitchen lights and the smell of spice create a soft, quiet gathering that feels like a small ceremony.

For a simple tea service, I cup the cookies next to a pot of warm tea or coffee. To highlight the festive notes, offer a mild black tea or a lightly spiced chai. If you prefer something bubbly, a plain, lightly sweet sparkling drink brings bright contrast to the creamy frosting and ties the evening together.

If you are celebrating with children, give them small plates and let them decorate an extra cookie with a little extra frosting and sprinkles. They love choosing their own topping, and I love the way small traditions like that become family lore.

For a mindful moment, arrange a few cookies on a plate with a cup of warm milk. Sit down, close your eyes, and let the aroma of nutmeg and vanilla fill your senses before you take a bite. That small pause makes the cookie feel like an event rather than a snack.

Pairing Ideas and Drinks to Serve Alongside

Cookies of this kind like gentle, quiet companions. A warm cup of coffee or tea is classic, but I often set out a pitcher of lightly chilled sparkling tea and a small carafe of milk for children and adults alike. The bubbles cut through the richness and leave a clean palate for the next bite.

For an adult gathering, a mild dessert wine or a small glass of warm spiced cider can be lovely. If you are curious about pairing sparkling drinks with sweet treats, you might enjoy reading about the benefits of sparkling tea to see which notes might pair best with your cookies.

If you are serving a full meal, offer these cookies with a small plate of fruit and nuts. The fruit adds freshness while the nuts add texture. Together they make a balanced ending that feels thoughtful and complete.

Storing Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Frosting The Taste of Christmas in Every Bite for Tomorrow

Store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need them to last longer, you can freeze the unfrosted dough or the baked, cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When you thaw, let them come to room temperature before frosting.

Frosted cookies are best stored in a single layer or with parchment between layers, and kept in a cool place. The frosting softens gently over a day or two and the flavors meld beautifully, so sometimes I make the cookies a day ahead so the spice has time to settle and the frosting takes on a gentle sheen.

To reheat slightly, place a cookie on a plate and microwave for 8 to 10 seconds. The cookie should feel warm but not hot, and the frosting should soften into the cookie for an indulgent bite. This little trick brings freshness back to a cookie that has been sitting for a while.

Make-Ahead Tips and Freezing Notes

If you want to bake ahead for a party, freeze the unbaked cookie dough scoops on a baking tray until solid, then transfer them to a sealed bag. When you are ready to bake, place frozen scoops onto a parchment-lined sheet and add 1 to 2 minutes to the baking time. They bake beautifully from frozen and keep the same soft center.

You can also freeze the frosting in a tight container. Thaw it in the refrigerator and stir briefly at room temperature until it becomes spreadable again. This saves time on busy days and still gives you the fresh frosting finish.

If you are shipping cookies, layer them with cardboard between stacks so they do not press together and crack. A small pack of desiccant or a piece of wax paper helps keep humidity in check during travel.

Variations to Try Without Losing the Heart of the Recipe

If you want a boozy touch, swap the rum extract for 1 teaspoon of dark rum and reduce the eggnog by one tablespoon. The alcohol will fade with time, but it gives a grown-up warmth to the cookie.

For a lighter version, use half the frosting and a thin glaze instead. Mix powdered sugar with a tablespoon of eggnog and a splash of vanilla for a simple gloss that sets firm. For a textured top, fold a handful of finely chopped toasted pecans into the frosting before spreading on the cooled cookies.

If you enjoy citrus notes, add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough. The bright citrus lifts the cozy spice and gives the cookie a fresh twang that balances the eggnog flavor.

Tips for Baking with Kids and Keeping It Simple

Baking with children is mostly about managing expectations and making space for small hands. Let them measure the sugars into a bowl and stir the dry ingredients with a wooden spoon. Counting scoops onto the tray becomes part of the game.

Teach them to look for the clues: edges that look set, centers that bounce back slightly, and the smell that tells you the spices are right. Let them dust the cookies with nutmeg, and watch how proud they feel when the plate goes to the table.

If the kitchen is busy, set up a small station with ingredients and a step-by-step checklist so helpers can follow along. This keeps things calm and makes the bake feel like a shared task rather than a race.

Troubleshooting Common Cookie Questions

If your cookies spread too thin, check your butter. If it was too warm, chill your dough for 20 minutes and try again. Using a scoop and chilling the dough prevents spread and helps cookies keep their rounded shape.

If the frosting is too runny, add a little more powdered sugar and beat until it thickens. If the frosting becomes too stiff, add a teaspoon of eggnog at a time and beat until you reach the spreadable texture you like.

If your cookies are too dry, reduce the baking time by a minute or two and make sure to let them cool on the baking sheet a few minutes before moving them. Small adjustments bring the texture back to tender and soft.

The Little Kitchen Tools That Make a Big Difference

A small offset spatula makes frosting easier and neater. A small cookie scoop creates even portions and steady baking times. A wire rack helps cookies cool evenly so the bottom does not stay soft.

A stand mixer speeds things up and makes the frosting light, but a hand mixer works just as well. If you do not have either, beat by hand with a little patience and care, and you will still make a delicious cookie.

Gifts, Plates, and Simple Presentation Ideas

Wrap a stack of cookies with parchment and a ribbon and tuck a sprig of evergreen into the knot. Write a simple note and leave it at a neighbor’s door for a small holiday gift. A plain tin with tissue paper also makes a charming container that keeps cookies fresh.

For a party, place cookies on a three-tiered stand with little tags for flavors. A small sprinkling of extra nutmeg on top right before serving adds warmth and looks like a finishing touch that says, I made this with care.

Why These Cookies Keep Bringing People Back to the Table

People return to these cookies because they are honest. They are not overly sweet or cloying. They offer spice, butter, and a smooth frosting that feels like home. Serving them makes the room feel kinder, slower, and a little more connected.

Every batch invites conversation. Someone remembers a childhood holiday, someone else learns to break a cookie in half and share. That gentle exchange is the heart of home cooking for me. These cookies are not a show, they are a way to make a moment softer and sweeter.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe invites you into my kitchen in a small, bright way and gives you the confidence to bake and share Soft Eggnog Cookies with Creamy Frosting The Taste of Christmas in Every Bite. If you bake at high altitude or want tips for adjusting baking times and textures, this guide to 100 Best High Altitude Christmas Cookies can be a useful next read to help your holiday baking succeed.

Author

Joudia Elise
I'm a recipe developer and wellness enthusiast at We Cook Recipe, where I share practical, family-friendly recipes that support real life not restrictive diets. My approach combines traditional cooking wisdom with modern nutritional understanding, always prioritizing sustainable habits over quick fixes. When I'm not in the kitchen, you'll find me testing wellness trends (like this one!) to separate fact from hype for our community.