Celebrate the magic of the holidays with these Christmas Eggnog Sugar Cookies! Buttery soft, delicately spiced, and topped with an eggnog-infused glaze, these cookies bring together all the cozy flavors of the season. The subtle richness of nutmeg, warm vanilla, and a touch of holiday cheer make these cookies not just treats, but memories in the making.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday cookie exchange, looking for something special to gift, or simply want to enjoy a festive bite with a cup of cocoa, these star-shaped delights are the answer. They look beautiful on any dessert table and taste even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Let’s get baking!

These cookies combine the comforting flavor of traditional sugar cookies with the creamy spice of eggnog. They have a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and the frosting delivers a sweet, silky finish that’s hard to resist. They’re easy to make, fun to decorate, and even better to eat. Plus, the dough holds its shape perfectly for cut-outs!

What Kind of Eggnog Should I Use?

For the richest flavor, use full-fat traditional eggnog (either homemade or store-bought). If you’re looking to avoid dairy, a thick, dairy-free version like almond or oat nog will also work—just be sure it’s unsweetened to avoid overly sugary cookies.

Ingredientss

All-purpose flour – Provides structure and chew to the cookies.
Unsalted butter – Adds richness and a tender crumb; make sure it’s softened.
Granulated sugar – For sweetness and light crispness.
Egg yolk – Adds richness and helps with binding.
Vanilla extract – Brings a warm depth of flavor.
Eggnog – Adds moisture and festive flavor to both dough and glaze.
Nutmeg – Classic spice to enhance the eggnog flavor.
Salt – Balances and amplifies sweetness.
Powdered sugar – Used in the glaze for a smooth, creamy finish.
Cinnamon or cocoa (optional) – For dusting over the glaze.
Decorative sprinkles (optional) – Adds holiday charm.

How To Make the Christmas Eggnog Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy and pale. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and eggnog. Beat until fully combined.

Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and nutmeg. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.

Step 3: Roll and Cut

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into star shapes (or any festive shape). Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden. Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and eggnog until you reach a smooth, spreadable consistency. Adjust thickness by adding more sugar or eggnog as needed.

Step 6: Decorate

Once cookies are fully cooled, spread or pipe the glaze over each cookie. Dust lightly with cinnamon or cocoa, and top with decorative sprinkles. Let set for 15-20 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Christmas Eggnog Sugar Cookies

These cookies are a showstopper on any holiday dessert tray. Arrange them on a festive plate, tie them in clear bags as edible gifts, or stack them in cookie boxes. This recipe makes about 24 cookies, enough to feed 8 to 10 people.

How to Store Christmas Eggnog Sugar Cookies

Store glazed cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If unglazed, they can last up to a week. For longer storage, freeze unglazed cookies in layers between parchment in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw and decorate before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought dough and just add eggnog glaze?
Absolutely! While homemade gives you more flavor control, store-bought dough can be a great shortcut. Just be sure it’s a sugar cookie base.

Can I freeze these cookies after decorating?
Yes, but the glaze might get a bit cloudy or sticky once thawed. Freeze in single layers between parchment and let thaw uncovered for best results.

What kind of eggnog is best for baking?
Full-fat, traditional eggnog is ideal for flavor and texture. Avoid low-fat versions as they tend to make the dough runny.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute with a good 1-to-1 gluten-free flour mix. Be aware the texture may be slightly more delicate.

Do I have to chill the dough?
Yes, chilling is essential. It firms the butter and helps the cookies keep their shape when baking.

If you loved these Christmas Eggnog Sugar Cookies, you’ll want to try these next:

Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies for a coconut-chocolate treat.
Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies if you crave layered textures.
Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies for a dramatic, fudgy indulgence.
Vanilla Pecan Pralines to go full holiday-southern-style.
Candy Cane Cookies if you want peppermint and whimsy.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use homemade eggnog or the store version? Did you go classic or creative with your cookie cutters?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

For more cozy bakes and festive sweets, follow me on Life With Livia.

Christmas Eggnog Sugar Cookies

Author: Livia Scott
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Start your holiday baking with these buttery, spiced Christmas Eggnog Sugar Cookies—perfect for a quick dessert, festive snack, or holiday party treat. This easy recipe combines warm seasonal flavors like vanilla and nutmeg with a creamy eggnog glaze. Whether you’re looking for cozy winter breakfast ideas, sweet food gifts, or a fun baking project with kids, this is the perfect Christmas cookie recipe to try.

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy and pale.

2. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of eggnog. Beat until fully combined.

3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and nutmeg.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until a soft dough forms.

5. Divide dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.

6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.

7. Cut into star shapes or other festive cookie cutters and place on parchment-lined baking sheets.

8. Bake for 9–11 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Cool 5 minutes on sheet, then transfer to wire rack.

9. To make the glaze, whisk 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar with 3 tablespoons eggnog until smooth and spreadable.

10. Once cookies are fully cooled, glaze each cookie.

11. Dust lightly with cinnamon or cocoa if desired and top with sprinkles.

12. Let glaze set 15–20 minutes before serving or storing.

Notes

For best results, chill dough overnight to intensify flavor.

Don’t overbake—remove as edges just turn golden.

If using decorative sprinkles, apply while glaze is still wet.

Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 165
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 45mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: eggnog cookies, Christmas cookies, holiday sugar cookies, festive desserts, easy cookie recipe

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Eggnog Sugar Cookie Recipe