Name: Cookies with Eggnog Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-497189H25M1S
Total time: PT-497189H25M1S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled; 2 teaspoons ground ginger; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1 large egg yolk, room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/3 cup molasses (not blackstrap); 1/3 cup turbinado or granulated sugar (for rolling); 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 2-3 cups icing sugar, sifted; 3-4 tablespoons eggnog; 1/4 teaspoon rum extract (optional)

Print Recipe· 4.1 from 39 reviews

If you’re dreaming of a cozy holiday treat that’s both comforting and festive, this Cookies with Eggnog Frosting Recipe is the answer you’ve been waiting for. These spiced cookies bring together warm notes of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg with a luscious eggnog frosting that’s creamy, sweet, and perfectly spiked with a hint of rum. Each bite delights with a soft texture and a touch of molasses-rich depth, making this recipe a must-make for celebrations or simply curling up with a cup of hot cocoa.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of a white pan with a red handle and wooden grip, containing a mix of golden-yellow melted butter and dark brown melted bits spread unevenly across the liquid's surface, with small white foam bubbles scattered mainly near the edges, all placed on a white marbled texture background photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Believe it or not, creating these delicious cookies is all about simple, well-chosen ingredients that work magic together. From classic spices to creamy butter, each component plays an essential role in building the flavor, texture, and festive character of this Cookies with Eggnog Frosting Recipe.

All-purpose flour (2 and 3/4 cups): The foundation that gives structure and softness to your cookies.
Ground ginger (2 teaspoons): Adds a warm, zesty spice that’s crucial for that holiday feel.
Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Infuses cozy, sweet spiciness to complement the ginger.
Ground cloves (1/4 teaspoon): A subtle, aromatic spice that rounds out the flavor profile.
Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Brings a sweet earthiness that pairs beautifully with eggnog.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise perfectly, keeping them tender.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all the spices.
Unsalted butter, softened (3/4 cup for dough + 6 tablespoons for frosting): Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Brown sugar, packed (3/4 cup): Offers deep sweetness and moisture, working with the molasses.
Egg (1 large) and egg yolk (1 large): Essential for binding and creating a tender crumb.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances sweetness and adds a smooth aroma.
Molasses (1/3 cup, not blackstrap): Provides that signature dark, rich flavor and beautiful color.
Turbinado or granulated sugar (1/3 cup): For rolling cookie dough balls, creating a sweet, sparkly crust.
Icing sugar, sifted (3-4 cups): The base for the creamy eggnog frosting.
Eggnog (3-4 tablespoons): The star ingredient in the frosting, lending seasonal flavor and creaminess.
Rum extract (1/4 teaspoon, optional): A little extra holiday cheer that’s optional but highly recommended.

How to Make Cookies with Eggnog Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. This blend of spices and leavening sets the stage for perfectly spiced cookies that bake up tender and flavorful.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugars, and Add Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the softened butter and brown sugar until no lumps remain and the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and molasses. Continue beating until everything is thoroughly combined. Lower the mixer speed and gradually incorporate the flour mixture, mixing just until combined to keep your cookies tender. Cover the dough and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours if you prefer stronger flavors and easier handling.

Step 3: Shape and Bake Your Cookies

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. If chilled over two hours, let the dough warm to room temperature for about 20 minutes. Scoop dough into 1.5 tablespoon-sized balls using a cookie scoop. Roll each ball in turbinado or granulated sugar to create a pleasant, crunchy exterior. Place them two inches apart on the sheet and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the tops look just set. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 to 10 minutes before moving them to wire racks.

Step 4: Make the Eggnog Frosting

While the cookies cool, prepare the frosting by beating softened butter in a medium bowl until creamy. Gradually add icing sugar about half a cup at a time, mixing well, until you’ve incorporated two cups. Then, add eggnog slowly—one tablespoon at a time—and mix in the rum extract if using. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar or eggnog as needed. The frosting should be smooth, creamy, and spreadable, perfect for sandwiching those delicious cookies.

Step 5: Assemble the Cookies

Now for the fun part! Spread about one tablespoon of eggnog frosting on the bottom of one cookie, then press gently together with a second cookie. The frosting acts as a delicious glue, creating a sandwich that’s bursting with creamy, spiced flavor in every bite.

How to Serve Cookies with Eggnog Frosting Recipe

The image shows two sandwich cookies on a white rectangular plate placed on a white marbled surface. Each cookie has two dark brown sugar-coated textured cookie layers with visible sugar crystals on top and a smooth, thick white cream filling in the middle. There is a glass bottle with a creamy yellow drink blurred in the background, adding soft color contrast. The focus is sharp on the front cookie, highlighting its rough texture and sugar crystals. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and flavor, consider sprinkling the finished cookie sandwiches with a little extra ground nutmeg or cinnamon on top. You can also zest a bit of orange over the frosting before the cookies set to add a fresh citrus aroma that complements the spices beautifully.

Side Dishes

These cookies shine alongside a warm cup of chai tea, rich hot chocolate, or a cozy mug of spiced eggnog to double down on the festive flavors. For a special brunch or dessert spread, pair with fresh fruit or whipped cream for a balanced, indulgent experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking a handful of cookie sandwiches on a festive platter dusted with powdered sugar or arranged in a circle to create an enticing centerpiece. Wrapping individual sandwiches in clear cellophane tied with ribbon makes a charming gift or party favor. You can even drizzle a little melted chocolate over the tops for added decadence and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the assembled cookie sandwiches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep the frosting smooth and the cookies soft. If your kitchen is warm, the fridge is a good alternative, though let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the cookies without frosting for up to three months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. Once thawed, prepare the eggnog frosting fresh and assemble the sandwiches to maintain the perfect texture.

Reheating

Since these are cookies with a delicate frosting, reheating isn’t necessary. Instead, let refrigerated or frozen cookies sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to bring out their flavors and soften the frosting. If you want warmed cookies without frosting, pop them in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of rum extract in the frosting?

Absolutely! Rum extract is optional and adds a festive touch, but pure vanilla extract works great and keeps the frosting flavorful.

What if I don’t have eggnog on hand—can I substitute something else?

You can substitute with milk mixed with a pinch of nutmeg and cinnamon for a similar flavor, but eggnog really makes this frosting special.

Is it necessary to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape and allows the flavors to develop fully. If you’re in a time crunch, 30 minutes is sufficient, but longer chilling improves the taste and texture.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the frosting a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and bring it back to room temperature before spreading on your cookies.

Are these cookies gluten-free or can they be made gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free as written. However, you can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, but be aware that texture may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

This Cookies with Eggnog Frosting Recipe is one of those holiday treasures that once you try, will become a tradition you look forward to every year. With its perfectly spiced cookies and creamy, festive frosting, it captures the spirit of the season in every bite. So, gather your ingredients, invite some friends, and enjoy baking this cozy, joy-filled treat together!

Cookies with Eggnog Frosting Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need