Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that combines the soft, cinnamon-coated charm of snickerdoodles with a creamy, spiced eggnog filling. Perfect for Christmas gatherings or cozy nights in, these cookies are sure to become a festive favorite.

What Are Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies?

These cookies start with a classic snickerdoodle dough, featuring a cinnamon-sugar coating and the signature tang of cream of tartar. What sets them apart is the rich eggnog filling, which adds a creamy, spiced center for a festive twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Holiday Flavor: The eggnog filling and cinnamon coating scream Christmas in every bite.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and a touch of seasonal eggnog.
• Versatile: Perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or as a homemade gift.
• Easy to Make: Straightforward steps make this recipe approachable for bakers of all levels.

Ingredients

Cookies:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (330 g)
• 1 tsp cream of tartar (4 g)
• ½ tsp baking soda (2.5 g)
• ½ tsp salt (2.5 g)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (227 g)
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar (250 g)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (5 ml)

Coating:

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar (25 g)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (2.5 g)

Filling:

• ½ cup eggnog (120 ml)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (28 g)
• ½ cup powdered sugar (60 g)
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (0.5 g)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Shaping the Cookies

1. In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the coating.
2. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and coat each one thoroughly in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
3. Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
4. Press your thumb or the back of a teaspoon into the center of each ball to create a thumbprint.

Baking

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are soft.
2. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Making the Eggnog Filling

1. In a small saucepan, heat the eggnog and butter over medium heat until the butter has melted.
2. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar and nutmeg until smooth.

Filling the Cookies

1. Spoon or pipe the eggnog filling into the thumbprints of each cooled cookie.
2. Allow the filling to set before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these cookies with a mug of hot cocoa or, fittingly, a glass of eggnog.
• Pair with other holiday favorites like gingerbread or chocolate crinkle cookies for a festive dessert spread.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Freezing Instructions

• Unbaked Dough: Freeze the rolled and coated dough balls on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
• Baked Cookies: Freeze the cookies without filling in a single layer. Once thawed, add the eggnog filling before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour substitute.
• Vegan: Replace butter with vegan butter, egg with a flaxseed egg, and use a plant-based eggnog.
• Extra Spice: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the filling for more holiday flavor.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought eggnog?
Yes, store-bought eggnog works perfectly for this recipe.

What can I substitute for cream of tartar?
You can use 2 tsp of lemon juice or white vinegar as a substitute.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Ensure your butter is softened, not melted, and chill the dough for 30 minutes if needed.

Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies are the perfect addition to your holiday baking repertoire. With their soft, cinnamon-sugar exterior and creamy eggnog center, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give them a try and share the joy of the season—your family and friends will thank you!

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