Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies are soft cinnamon-sugar cookies with a creamy eggnog ganache filling, lightly spiked with rum and topped with freshly grated nutmeg. These cookies are as festive as they are delicious, making them perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, dessert platters, or gifting to loved ones.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Classic Holiday Flavor: Eggnog, rum, cinnamon, and nutmeg create the perfect Christmas cookie.
- Soft and Chewy: The cookies are tender and perfectly balanced with a creamy ganache center.
- Elegant and Festive: Topped with freshly grated nutmeg, they’re visually stunning and holiday-ready.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, these cookies are perfect for last-minute holiday baking.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 4 ounces (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, gently packed
- 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 medium egg (50 grams), room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 245 grams (1 3/4 cups) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
For Rolling the Dough
- 1/3 cup sugar mixed with 2 tablespoons cinnamon
For the Eggnog Ganache Filling
- 4 ounces white chocolate, chopped or broken into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons eggnog
- 1 tablespoon dark rum (or 1/4 teaspoon rum extract)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Essential Tools
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: For creaming the butter and sugars.
- Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
- Microwave-Safe Bowl or Double Boiler: For melting the white chocolate.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurate measurements.
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Ensures a fluffy, well-creamed cookie dough for a soft texture.
- Parchment Paper: Protects the cookies from overbaking on the bottoms and simplifies cleanup.
- Microwave-Safe Bowl or Double Boiler: Melts the white chocolate smoothly for the ganache.
Preparation Tips
- Room-Temperature Ingredients: Let the butter and egg sit at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies. For accuracy, weigh your flour (245 grams).
- Customize Your Ganache: Adjust the rum or nutmeg levels to suit your taste preferences.
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Make the Cookie Dough
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer), beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg and vanilla extract. Beat again until fully combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a thick dough forms.
2. Shape and Bake the Cookies
- Roll Dough Balls: Scoop the dough into 1-tablespoon-sized balls (approximately 15 grams each) and roll each one in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until coated.
- Create Indentations: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a 1/2 teaspoon to press down gently in the center of each ball to create an indentation. If the dough cracks, press it back together gently.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 7 minutes. If the indentations puff up during baking, gently press them back down with the same tool you used before baking. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
These cookies are a perfect balance of warm cinnamon spice and creamy eggnog filling, making them a must-have for the holiday season!
Serving Suggestions
1. Classic Pairings
- Enjoy these cookies with a warm mug of eggnog or spiced chai tea to complement the festive flavors.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or a cinnamon latte for a cozy treat.
2. Holiday Cookie Platters
- Add these cookies to a holiday platter alongside:
- Sugar cookies with royal icing
- Peppermint bark
- Brown butter toffee cookies
- Gingerbread men
3. Dessert Boards
- Include these cookies on a dessert charcuterie board with:
- Fresh fruit like pomegranate seeds or orange slices
- Candied nuts or spiced pecans
- Chocolate truffles or mini cupcakes
4. Pair with Drinks
- For adults, pair with a glass of spiced rum or Baileys Irish Cream for a decadent holiday experience.
- Serve with a hot toddy or mulled wine for a wintery twist.
5. Gift Giving
- Place these cookies in festive tins or boxes lined with parchment paper. Tie with a holiday ribbon for a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift.
Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe
1. Overbaking the Cookies
- Mistake: Leaving the cookies in the oven too long results in dry, crumbly cookies.
- Solution: Remove cookies when the edges are set but the centers are still soft. They’ll continue to set as they cool.
2. Cracked Cookie Dough
- Mistake: Dough balls may crack when creating indentations.
- Solution: If the dough cracks, simply press it back together gently with your fingers.
3. Ganache Setting Too Quickly
- Mistake: The filling may thicken before you’ve filled all the cookies.
- Solution: Work quickly while the ganache is still pourable, or gently reheat it in the microwave in 10-second intervals if needed.
4. Ganache Not Setting
- Mistake: The ganache may remain loose if the white chocolate-to-eggnog ratio isn’t balanced.
- Solution: Ensure you use the specified amounts of chocolate and eggnog for a filling that sets properly. Refrigerate if necessary to speed up the process.
5. Uneven Cookie Sizes
- Mistake: Inconsistent dough balls lead to uneven baking.
- Solution: Use a small cookie scoop or measure 15 grams per ball for consistent results.
Side Dish Recommendations
1. Beverages
- Pair these cookies with warm drinks like:
- Eggnog with a dash of cinnamon
- Hot cocoa topped with whipped cream
- A cinnamon-spiced apple cider
2. Whipped Cream Dip
- Serve alongside a bowl of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a dollop of egg-based custard for dipping.
3. Fresh Fruit
- Offer a side of fresh fruit like sliced apples, pears, or a tangy cranberry compote to balance the sweetness.
4. Ice Cream Pairings
- Serve the cookies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or cinnamon ice cream for a holiday-inspired dessert.
With these serving suggestions and expert tips, your Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies will shine as the highlight of any holiday celebration or dessert spread!
Recipe Tips
1. Work Quickly with Ganache
- The ganache will thicken as it cools, so fill the cookies while it’s still pourable. If it sets too quickly, reheat it gently in 10-second intervals in the microwave or over a double boiler.
2. Keep Dough Consistent
- Use a small cookie scoop or weigh dough balls (15 grams each) for even baking and professional-looking results.
3. Customize the Flavor
- Adjust the amount of rum or nutmeg in the ganache to suit your taste. You can also omit the rum for a non-alcoholic version or use rum extract for a milder flavor.
4. Grate Fresh Nutmeg
- Freshly grated nutmeg has a much stronger and more fragrant aroma than pre-ground nutmeg, adding a luxurious touch to these cookies.
5. Prevent Overbaking
- Bake until the edges are set, and the centers still look soft. They’ll firm up as they cool, resulting in perfectly tender cookies.
Storage Instructions
1. Room Temperature
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Refrigeration
- Extend their freshness by storing the cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
3. Freezing Cookies
- Unfilled Cookies: Bake and cool the cookies completely, then freeze them without the ganache. Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and add the ganache before serving.
- Filled Cookies: Fully assembled cookies can also be frozen. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. If it’s too firm to scoop after chilling, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes.
2. Can I Substitute the Eggnog?
If you’re not a fan of eggnog, try substituting with heavy cream for a simple white chocolate ganache. Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to keep the festive flavor.
3. What If I Don’t Have Cream of Tartar?
The cream of tartar helps create the signature tangy flavor of snickerdoodles, but you can substitute it with an equal amount of lemon juice or white vinegar.
4. How Can I Prevent the Cookies from Cracking?
If cracks form while making the indentations, gently press the dough back together with your fingers. Be sure the dough is soft and pliable before baking.
5. Can I Use Pre-Made Ganache?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought white chocolate ganache and mix in eggnog and nutmeg for a festive touch.
6. What If My Ganache Doesn’t Set?
Ensure you’ve used the right ratio of white chocolate to eggnog. If it’s too thin, add a bit more melted white chocolate and stir until smooth. Refrigerate the cookies to help the ganache firm up.
7. Can I Double the Recipe?
Yes! This recipe doubles beautifully. Use multiple baking sheets and assemble the cookies in batches for best results.
8. How Do I Transport These Cookies?
Layer the cookies in a sturdy, airtight container with parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking or damage during transport.
Conclusion
Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies are the epitome of holiday cheer, with their soft cinnamon-sugar base and creamy eggnog ganache filling. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, cookie exchange, or cozy family gathering, these cookies will steal the show.
Make a batch today and experience the warmth and joy of the season in every bite!
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