Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies Jam Filled
Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes
Delightful eggnog-flavored cookies filled with your favorite jam, perfect for the holiday season.
Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies are a festive treat that brings the flavors of the holiday season to your dessert table. These tender cookies are infused with the rich flavors of eggnog and finished with a dollop of your favorite jam, making them a delightful addition to any holiday gathering.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Festive flavors that capture the essence of the holiday season
- Soft and chewy texture with a sweet jam surprise
- Perfect for gifting or sharing at holiday parties
A Taste of the Holidays
Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional holiday treats, combining the rich, creamy flavor of eggnog with the sweetness of fruit jam. As you prepare these cookies, the warm spices of nutmeg and the aroma of baking will fill your kitchen, creating a festive atmosphere that captures the essence of the season. These cookies not only taste amazing but also bring a nostalgic feeling that reminds us of holiday gatherings with friends and family.
The eggnog flavor in these cookies is subtle yet distinct, making them a perfect addition to your holiday cookie platter. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of cocoa or a spiced cider, enhancing the overall holiday experience. Whether you’re enjoying them at home or sharing them at a festive gathering, these cookies will surely impress and delight every palate.
Perfect for Gifting
These eggnog thumbprint cookies are not only delicious but also make excellent gifts for loved ones during the holiday season. Their charming appearance, with bright jam centers, makes them visually appealing when packaged in festive tins or boxes. Personalize your gifts by selecting different types of fruit jam, allowing you to cater to the unique tastes of your friends and family.
Additionally, the process of baking and gifting these cookies can create wonderful memories and traditions. Involve your loved ones in the baking process, making it a fun and enjoyable activity. As you share these cookies, you're not just giving a sweet treat; you're sharing the warmth and joy of the holiday spirit.
Tips for Success
To ensure your eggnog thumbprint cookies turn out perfectly, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help you achieve the right balance, particularly with the flour and sugars. Additionally, allow your butter to soften at room temperature before creaming it with the sugars, as this will create a light and fluffy texture that's essential for these cookies.
When it comes to baking, keep an eye on your cookies as they approach the end of the baking time. Ovens can vary, so start checking for doneness at the 10-minute mark. The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges while remaining soft in the center. This ensures a chewy texture that complements the fruity jam filling beautifully.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup eggnog
For the Filling
- 1/2 cup fruit jam (your choice, such as raspberry or strawberry)
Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature before starting for the best results.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Egg and Eggnog
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and eggnog until well combined.
Mix in Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Shape Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
Make Thumbprints
Use your thumb or the back of a measuring spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
Fill with Jam
Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of fruit jam.
Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies with a glass of eggnog or your favorite hot beverage!
Storing Your Cookies
Proper storage is key to keeping your eggnog thumbprint cookies fresh and delicious. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can also warm them in the oven for a few minutes to regain that freshly-baked taste. This makes it easy to prepare ahead for holiday gatherings or to have a sweet treat on hand for unexpected guests.
Variations to Try
While the classic eggnog flavor is a holiday favorite, there are many ways to customize these thumbprint cookies. Consider swapping out the fruit jam for chocolate ganache or a spiced caramel sauce for a different twist. Each variation brings a unique flavor profile that can make your cookies stand out during holiday celebrations.
You can also experiment with different spices in the cookie dough. Adding cinnamon or ginger can enhance the warmth and comfort of the cookies, making them even more festive. Don't hesitate to get creative with toppings, such as drizzling melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies or sprinkling crushed nuts for added texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different flavor of jam?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any fruit jam you prefer.
→ How do I store leftover cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.
→ What can I substitute for eggnog?
If you don’t have eggnog, you can use a mixture of milk and cream with a touch of nutmeg and vanilla.
Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies Jam Filled
Delightful eggnog-flavored cookies filled with your favorite jam, perfect for the holiday season.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Easy Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup eggnog
For the Filling
- 1/2 cup fruit jam (your choice, such as raspberry or strawberry)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and eggnog until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
Use your thumb or the back of a measuring spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of fruit jam.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 1g