Dessert

Eggnog Snickerdoodles Recipe

ByLily Monroe January 11, 2026January 11, 2026

Introduction

Eggnog Snickerdoodles bring a festive twist to a classic favorite, combining the warm flavors of nutmeg and eggnog for a rich, comforting cookie. These soft and chewy treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.

The image shows soft, round cookies arranged on a crumpled sheet of white parchment paper over a white marbled surface. The cookies have a light golden color with a slightly cracked texture on top, speckled with small dark cinnamon bits, giving a cozy and warm appearance. One cookie is centered in clear focus, while others sit stacked loosely nearby. On the right side, a white glass jar filled with pale yellow milk is partially visible, adding to the comforting scene. The light in the picture is bright and natural, highlighting the soft texture of the cookies. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup butter, softened
2 1/3 cups sugar, divided
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla or rum extract
1 cup eggnog
4 1/2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 2 cups of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then beat in the egg and vanilla or rum extract.
Step 3: In another large bowl, sift together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
Step 4: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the eggnog. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
Step 5: In a small bowl, mix together 1/3 cup sugar and 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg.
Step 6: Shape the dough into rounded tablespoons, then roll each piece in the sugar and nutmeg mixture.
Step 7: Place the cookies 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the cookies are set and starting to crack.

Tips & Variations

For a more intense spice flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the sugar and nutmeg coating.
Try using rum extract instead of vanilla for a boozy hint without adding alcohol.
If the dough feels too sticky, chill it for 30 minutes before shaping.
For softer cookies, slightly reduce baking time and watch closely to avoid overbaking.

Storage

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh longer, place a slice of bread in the container to maintain moisture. Reheat briefly in a microwave or enjoy at room temperature.

How to Serve

A stack of six round cookies with a cracked, golden-brown surface showing a cinnamon sugar coating, the top cookie broken in half revealing a soft, chewy yellow inside with crumb texture; the stack sits on a white marbled surface with a red ribbon and two silver jingle bells placed nearby, all items resting neatly to the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of eggnog?

While regular milk can be used, it will reduce the rich flavor and festive taste unique to eggnog. For best results, stick to eggnog or consider adding a little nutmeg and vanilla to mimic the flavor.

Can I freeze Eggnog Snickerdoodles?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. You can also freeze the dough for up to one month; thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.