Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies Jam Filled

Name: Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies Jam Filled
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup eggnog; 1 cup jam or preserves (your choice, such as raspberry or apricot)

Highlighted under: Simple Sweet Recipes

Delightfully festive and bursting with flavor, these Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies are filled with your favorite jam, making them a perfect treat for the holiday season.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-26T00:19:28.228Z

Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic holiday cookie. Infused with the warm spices of eggnog and filled with your favorite jam, they bring a festive touch to any gathering. These cookies are not only delicious but also a fun baking project for the whole family.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich eggnog flavor with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon
Deliciously sweet jam filling that complements the cookie
Perfect for holiday parties or as a homemade gift

      

A Festive Tradition

Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies are more than just a delicious treat; they represent a cherished holiday tradition for many families. The combination of rich eggnog flavor with the nostalgic essence of nutmeg and cinnamon brings warmth to any festive gathering. Each bite transports you to cozy evenings spent with loved ones, making these cookies not just a dessert but a way to create cherished memories.

These cookies are perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or simply to enjoy with a warm cup of cocoa. Their unique flavor profile and beautiful presentation make them a standout treat that will impress your guests. Whether you decorate them with festive sprinkles or leave them as is, their delightful appearance and taste will be a highlight of your holiday festivities.

Choosing the Right Jam

The jam or preserve you choose for your Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies can elevate the flavor and visual appeal of the treats. While classic options like raspberry and apricot are popular, feel free to explore other flavors such as cranberry or cherry for a unique twist. The tartness of the jam beautifully balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a harmonious flavor experience.

When selecting your jam, consider whether you prefer a chunkier texture or a smooth spread. A chunky jam can add an interesting texture and visual contrast, while a smooth jam ensures a more uniform filling. Whichever you choose, make sure it’s high-quality for the best results—this is one area where investing a little more can make a big difference.

Gift-Worthy Treats

Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies are not only delightful to eat but also make for thoughtful homemade gifts during the holiday season. Presenting these cookies in a decorative tin or box can spread holiday cheer to friends, family, and neighbors. Personalizing your gift by including a note about the inspiration behind the cookies adds an extra touch of warmth.

To ensure your cookies stay fresh, consider layering them with parchment paper and storing them in an airtight container. They can last up to a week, making them a convenient gift option. By sharing your homemade creations, you not only treat others to delicious flavors but also share a piece of your holiday spirit.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies:

For the Cookies

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 large egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup eggnog

For the Filling

1 cup jam or preserves (your choice, such as raspberry or apricot)

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. In another bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and eggnog, mixing until well combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until a dough forms.

Shape the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.

Fill with Jam

Fill each indentation with about 1/2 teaspoon of jam. Bake 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.

Once cooled, enjoy your delicious Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies!

Baking Tips for Success

For the best results, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before mixing. This allows for better incorporation with the sugar, leading to a lighter and fluffier cookie. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the dough once you combine the wet and dry ingredients; this will help maintain a tender texture in your cookies.

When rolling the dough into balls, ensure they are uniform in size to promote even baking. Using a small cookie scoop can help achieve consistent sizes. Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices, such as allspice or cardamom, to personalize your cookies further.

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed within the first week, but you can also freeze them for longer storage. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and they can last up to three months in the freezer.

If you decide to freeze the cookies, consider underbaking them slightly before freezing. This way, when you thaw and bake them again, they will retain their soft and chewy texture, just like fresh-baked cookies. It’s a great way to prepare ahead for holiday gatherings!

Customization Ideas

Feel free to get creative with your Eggnog Thumbprint Cookies! You can add a touch of orange zest to the dough for a citrusy twist that brightens the flavors. Additionally, drizzling a simple icing over the cooled cookies can add a sweet finishing touch, enhancing both appearance and taste.

Consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the dough for added texture and flavor. Almonds or pecans pair wonderfully with the spices and eggnog flavor, making each cookie even more delightful. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting and making these cookies your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different flavors of jam?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any flavor of jam or preserves that you love.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies. Just make sure to place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I substitute for eggnog?

You can substitute eggnog with a mixture of milk and a dash of nutmeg and vanilla extract if you're looking for a non-alcoholic version.