Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies

Name: Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup eggnog; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup fruit jam (apricot or raspberry works well)

Highlighted under: Delicious Desserts Made Simple

Delightful Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies that capture the essence of the holiday season.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-01T19:30:43.981Z

These Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies are the perfect treat for the holiday season. With a rich eggnog flavor and a sweet jam filling, they make a delightful addition to any cookie platter.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich eggnog flavor with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon
Soft, buttery texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift

      

The Perfect Holiday Treat

Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies are not just delightful to eat; they also evoke the warm, cozy feelings of the holiday season. With their rich eggnog flavor, enhanced by the warm spices of nutmeg and cinnamon, these cookies are a festive addition to any dessert table. The use of eggnog brings a unique twist that sets these cookies apart from traditional thumbprint varieties, making them a memorable treat for family and friends.

These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing. The vibrant fruit jam filling creates a beautiful contrast against the soft, buttery cookie base. Each cookie is a small work of art that is sure to impress guests at holiday gatherings. Whether served at a festive party or gifted in a decorative tin, these cookies are bound to bring smiles and compliments.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

One of the best things about Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies is that they require simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of all-purpose flour, butter, sugar, and eggnog creates a rich and flavorful cookie dough. The addition of nutmeg adds a classic holiday spice that enhances the overall taste profile, making each bite a delightful experience.

The filling can be customized to your liking, as different fruit jams can bring their unique flavors to the cookies. Apricot and raspberry are popular choices, but feel free to experiment with your favorites. This versatility allows you to personalize your cookies, ensuring that they cater to your taste preferences or those of your loved ones.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies turn out perfectly, there are a few baking tips to keep in mind. First, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature, as this will help create a light and fluffy texture when creamed with sugar. Additionally, avoid over-mixing the dough once you add the dry ingredients, as this can lead to tougher cookies.

When creating the thumbprint indents, be gentle but firm. This will help prevent the cookies from cracking during baking. If the dough is too soft to handle, refrigerating it for about 30 minutes can make it easier to work with. Finally, keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; each oven is different, and you want to catch them just as the edges turn lightly golden for the perfect texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delectable cookies:

For the Cookies

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/4 cup eggnog
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling

1/2 cup fruit jam (apricot or raspberry works well)

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Combine Mixtures

Add the egg, eggnog, and vanilla to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Create Thumbprints

Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to press a small indentation in the center of each cookie.

Fill with Jam

Spoon a small amount of fruit jam into each indentation.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Enjoy these cookies with a glass of eggnog or your favorite holiday beverage!

Storing Your Cookies

Storing your Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies properly will keep them fresh and delicious for days. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and store them at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead option for holiday festivities.

If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Perfect Pairings

Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies pair beautifully with a variety of beverages, making them a delightful treat for holiday gatherings. A warm cup of spiced cider or hot chocolate complements the rich flavors of the cookies, creating a comforting experience. For those who enjoy a festive cocktail, consider serving them with eggnog or a creamy holiday punch.

If you're looking for a lighter pairing, a cup of tea—such as chai or cinnamon-infused blends—can enhance the spices in the cookies, creating a harmonious flavor combination. No matter your choice of beverage, these cookies are sure to elevate your holiday celebrations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of jam?

Yes, feel free to use any fruit jam you like or even chocolate spread!

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.

→ What can I substitute for eggnog?

You can use a mixture of milk and a dash of nutmeg as a substitute.