Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the very essence of the holiday season. These cookies are soft, crispy, and full of that warm, cozy flavor we all love. With a hint of eggnog and pieces of creamy white chocolate, they give every bite a festive twist.

The beauty of these cookies lies in their simplicity. They blend familiar ingredients that you probably have at home. They are perfect for sharing with family and friends, making them a great addition to any gathering.

Why You Will Love This Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

This recipe is an easy way to bring holiday cheer to your kitchen. The combination of classic snickerdoodle flavors with creamy eggnog makes each cookie feel special. They are simple enough for anyone to make, including beginners. Plus, they bake quickly, giving you freshly baked cookies in no time. Enjoy the sweet scent filling your home while they bake!

How to Make Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

Making these cookies is straightforward and fun. You’ll cream butter and sugars, then mix in the egg and vanilla. After that, add the dry ingredients to create a dough. Forming the cookies and creating the thumbprints is a simple process. It’s a great activity to do with family or friends.

What You Need

4 ounces (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
½ cup light brown sugar, gently packed
¼ cup white granulated sugar
1 medium egg (about 50 grams), room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
245 grams all-purpose flour (about 2 cups if measured by volume – see notes)
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/3 cup sugar mixed with 2 tablespoons cinnamon
4 ounces white chocolate, chopped or broken into small pieces
2 tablespoons eggnog
1 tablespoon dark rum or 1/4 teaspoon rum extract (optional – see notes)
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Step-by-Step

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, scraping down once.
Add egg and vanilla. Mix again until creamy and combined, scraping down as needed.
Add flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. If your ingredients are lumpy, you may sift them. Mix until a thick dough forms.
Scoop dough into 1 tablespoon-sized balls (15 grams if you want to be precise). Roll balls in cinnamon sugar.
Place on a parchment-lined cookie sheet. Press down centers with a ½ teaspoon or your finger/thumb. If dough cracks, simply press it back together.
Bake in the preheated oven for 7 minutes. If the indentation fills in during baking, gently press down again while warm.
Make the filling by combining white chocolate, eggnog, and rum or rum extract (if using) in a bowl. Microwave at 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until chocolate melts. Add grated nutmeg if desired. You can also use a double boiler. The filling will be quite loose at first but will set as it cools.
Fill each cookie with about 1/2 teaspoon of filling and top with freshly grated nutmeg. The filling will set after a few hours at room temperature. Place them in the refrigerator if you’d like them to set more quickly.

How to Serve Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

These cookies are perfect to enjoy with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa. They also make delightful gifts when placed in festive tins. Serve them during holiday gatherings or cozy winter evenings with family.

How to Store Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies

Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Defrost at room temperature for delicious treats later!

Recipe Tips

Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Don’t overbake the cookies; they should be slightly soft in the center.
If you prefer, you can use different types of chocolate for the filling.
Allow the cookies to cool completely before adding the filling.
For a nut-free version, skip the nutmeg topping.

Variations & Swaps

Swap white chocolate for dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
Use a dairy-free butter and chocolate for a dairy-free option.
Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier twist.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Just make sure to allow the dough to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before baking.

Can I freeze the cookies?
Certainly! Bake the cookies and let them cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container. They can last for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of rum?
If you prefer not to use rum, simply skip it or use rum extract for that hint of flavor.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container, these cookies will stay fresh for about 5 days at room temperature.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle.

These Eggnog Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies are an easy and delightful treat that captures the holiday spirit. Enjoy baking and sharing them with loved ones!