Name: Eggnog Cut Out Cookie Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-487439H11M4S
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup salted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup eggnog; 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more as needed); 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp nutmeg

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies combine the flavors of a cozy holiday drink with the fun of custom-shaped cookies. The dough is easy to work with, bakes evenly, and results in a tender yet sturdy cookie—ideal for decorating. Plus, the eggnog adds a subtle richness that pairs perfectly with the festive spices.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Granulated sugar
Salted butter
Large eggs
Vanilla extract
Eggnog
All-purpose flour
Cinnamon
Nutmeg

Directions

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together butter and sugar on low speed for about 30 seconds, until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to prevent excess spreading during baking. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Add eggs, vanilla extract, and eggnog slowly, mixing until combined. Scrape down the bowl and mix again briefly.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture. Place a tea towel between the bowl and mixer to prevent flour from escaping. Mix on low speed for 30 seconds, then check the dough’s texture—it should be soft but not sticky. Add more flour ¼ cup at a time if too sticky, or a splash of milk/water if too dry.
Roll dough between two large sheets of parchment paper. Transfer to a baking sheet and refrigerate or freeze for at least 1 hour.
Cut dough into desired shapes, re-rolling scraps as needed. If dough becomes too soft, chill again before cutting.
Place cut shapes on parchment-lined baking sheets. Chill for 10 minutes to 1 hour before baking to help them keep their shape.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake for 8–12 minutes, or until edges are golden brown. Baking time will vary depending on cookie size.
Let cool completely before decorating, if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves: Approximately 35 medium cookies
Prep time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)
Chill time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Cook time: 8–12 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of rum extract for a classic eggnog flavor boost.
Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before baking for extra sweetness.
Use a mix of nutmeg and allspice for a deeper spice profile.
Dip half the cookie in melted white chocolate for an elegant finish.
Replace eggnog with heavy cream if making outside the holiday season.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies (undecorated) for up to 2 months, thawing at room temperature before serving. Dough can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before rolling and cutting.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Why chill the dough twice?

Chilling helps the cookies keep their shape and prevents spreading during baking.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Can I use unsalted butter?

Yes, but add about ½ teaspoon of salt to the recipe.

How thick should I roll the dough?

About ¼ inch thick is ideal for sturdy cut-out cookies.

Can I skip the eggnog?

Yes, replace it with heavy cream or milk for a similar texture.

What’s the best way to decorate them?

Royal icing works best for detailed designs, but buttercream or glaze icing are great for simpler decoration.

Why did my cookies spread?

Overmixing the butter and sugar or not chilling the dough enough can cause spreading.

Can I freeze decorated cookies?

Yes, but decorations may lose some detail after thawing. Freeze in single layers separated by parchment paper.

Can I bake them without parchment paper?

Yes, but parchment or a silicone baking mat helps prevent sticking and promotes even baking.

Conclusion

Eggnog Cut Out Cookies are a holiday favorite that blend seasonal flavors with the fun of creative decorating. They’re perfect for cookie exchanges, family baking days, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa. With their tender texture, warm spice, and festive shape-holding ability, they’re sure to become a seasonal tradition.

Eggnog Cut Out Cookie Recipe

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Festive cut-out cookies flavored with eggnog, cinnamon, and nutmeg that hold their shape perfectly for holiday decorating.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8–12 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Yield: 35 medium cookies
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup salted butter, softened

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 cup eggnog

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more as needed)

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp nutmeg

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Instructions

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together butter and sugar on low speed for about 30 seconds until incorporated, scraping down sides as needed.
Add eggs, vanilla extract, and eggnog slowly, mixing until combined. Scrape down the bowl and mix briefly again.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Add flour mixture to the butter mixture. Place a tea towel between the bowl and mixer to prevent flour from escaping. Mix on low speed for 30 seconds, then adjust texture by adding more flour 1/4 cup at a time if too sticky, or a splash of milk/water if too dry.
Roll dough between two large sheets of parchment paper. Transfer to a baking sheet and refrigerate or freeze for at least 1 hour.
Cut dough into desired shapes, re-rolling scraps as needed. Chill again if dough becomes too soft.
Place cut shapes on parchment-lined baking sheets and chill for 10 minutes to 1 hour before baking.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake for 8–12 minutes, or until edges are golden brown, adjusting for cookie size.
Cool completely before decorating as desired.