Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies

Capturing Holiday Bliss: Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies with Rum Frosting

As the festive season approaches, there’s a delightful aroma that fills the air—the sweet and spicy essence of eggnog. What better way to encapsulate this holiday bliss than with Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies adorned with a luscious Rum Frosting? These cookies are a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, offering a bite-sized taste of seasonal joy. Join us on this culinary journey as we guide you through crafting these delectable treats, complete with cook notes, creative variations, and keto-friendly options for everyone to enjoy.

Ingredients

For the Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup eggnog
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Thumbprint Filling:

  • 1/2 cup eggnog
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Rum Frosting:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons dark rum
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Cookie Creation:

  1. Butter and Sugar Ballet: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Golden Elixir Addition: Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Gradually add the eggnog, continuing to mix until well combined.
  3. Dry Ensemble: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  4. Chill Time: Wrap the cookie dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing it to firm up.

2. Thumbprint Magic:

  1. Preheat and Scoop: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the chilled dough and scoop out tablespoon-sized portions. Roll them into balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  2. Thumbprint Artistry: Create an indentation in the center of each cookie using your thumb or the back of a rounded teaspoon.

3. Bake and Fill:

  1. Baking Ballet: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Once out of the oven, reinforce the thumbprint indentations if needed.
  2. Eggnog Elixir Filling: In a saucepan, whisk together the eggnog, cornstarch, granulated sugar, and nutmeg over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens. Spoon this delightful filling into the thumbprint wells of the cookies.

4. Rum Frosting Symphony:

  1. Buttery Base: In a bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, dark rum, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  2. Frosting Flourish: Once the cookies have cooled, generously frost each thumbprint with the Rum Frosting, creating a tempting swirl.

Cook Notes

  • Eggnog Essence: For an extra boost of eggnog flavor, add a pinch of ground cinnamon and cloves to the cookie dough.
  • Chill Importance: Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing cookies from spreading too much in the oven. It also enhances the flavors and allows for easier handling.
  • Thumbprint Precision: To maintain the thumbprint shape, you can use the back of a rounded teaspoon or a tool specifically designed for this purpose.

Variations

1. Nutty Delight:

  • Roll the cookie dough balls in finely chopped pecans or walnuts before baking for a delightful crunch.

2. Fruit Fusion:

  • Add a dollop of fruit preserves or jam into the thumbprint wells before filling with the eggnog mixture for a fruity twist.

3. Citrus Zest Extravaganza:

  • Infuse the cookie dough with grated orange or lemon zest to bring a burst of citrusy freshness.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

1. Almond Flour Alchemy:

  • Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a low-carb alternative. Adjust the quantity as needed.

2. Sugar-Free Sweetening:

  • Substitute granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener in both the cookie dough and filling.

3. Keto-Friendly Frosting:

  • Modify the Rum Frosting by using a sugar-free powdered sweetener and ensuring the rum is keto-compliant.

In conclusion, these Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies with Rum Frosting are a testament to the magic that happens when classic holiday flavors meet innovative baking techniques. As you savor each bite, let the warmth of eggnog and the richness of rum frosting transport you to a festive realm.

Whether you’re sharing these cookies with loved ones, gifting them during the holidays, or simply indulging in a moment of self-care, these treats are bound to leave a lasting impression. So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and embark on a journey of holiday baking that will create memories to cherish for years to come. Happy baking!