Okay, friends, let me tell you about a cookie that’s basically Christmas in every bite. I’m talking about these incredible Eggnog Ginger Molasses Cookies. They’re soft, chewy, and packed with warm spices, and they’ve become an absolute staple in my house during the holiday season. If you love gingerbread cookies but crave something a little richer and more decadent, this is your answer. The molasses gives them a deep, caramel-like flavor, the ginger adds a delightful zing, and the eggnog… well, that’s just pure holiday magic.
What is Eggnog Ginger Molasses Cookies?
Think of these as a holiday hug in cookie form. How do you make a spice cookie with eggnog? What is it like if a molasses cookie decided to go to Christmas party and got all dressed up? What is the name of a company? What’s the best molasses flavor with a kick of ginger? The creamy, spiced warmth of eggnog folded right in. Is it just a cookie? If you want a creamy Cream Cheese Frosting, these are the perfect base for it.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I begin? These aren’t just any cookies, they’re special. What I love about this is how the flavors all play together. What is the Best Eggnog flavor? Is it irres Is this a flavor explosion?
Beyond the incredible taste, they’re surprisingly easy to make. You don’t need any fancy equipment or complicated techniques. Trust me, if I can make them (and I’m no pastry chef!), you definitely can. Plus, the ingredients are pretty budget-friendly. You probably have most of them in your pantry already, which is always a win in my book. We often buy the eggnog on clearance after the holidays and freeze it to have on hand year round.
What is versatility? What are some of the best ways to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea? What are the benefits of vanilla ice cream? I even crumbled them over my oatmeal this morning (don’t judge me)! What are some of the best Christmas Cookies you have ever had?
Compared to a traditional sugar cookie, these have so much more depth and flavor. What are some great Cookie Recipes to bake at home on a cold winter’s night?
How do you make Eggnog Molasses Cookies?
Quick Overview
What are some easy ways to make cookies? How do you whisk together dry ingredients, cream together wet ingredients and combine. What do you bake until golden brown? What’s the best part? The aroma that fills your kitchen while they’re baking. What is the trick to baking cookie dough? Just part of the fun!
Ingredients
For the Main Batter: Is there a
* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: I always use unbleached for the best flavor.
* 1 teaspoon baking soda: Make sure it’s fresh!
* 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds that warm, spicy kick.
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A must for holiday baking.
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: Just a touch for depth.
* 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Key for a soft, chewy texture.
* 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar: Adds moisture and caramel notes.
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness and crisp edges.
* 1/4 cup molasses: Don’t skimp on this! It’s what gives the cookies their signature flavor.
* 1 large egg: Binds everything together.
* 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the other flavors.
* 1/2 cup eggnog: The star of the show! I prefer full-fat for the best flavor and texture.
For the Glaze:
* 1 cup powdered sugar: For a sweet, smooth glaze. * 2-3 tablespoons eggnog: Adds flavor and thins out the glaze. * 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A festive touch.
How do I follow
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Why are cookies sticky? If you don’t have parchment paper, you can grease a baking sheet.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside. Whisking is the key here – it ensures that everything is evenly distributed, which means no pockets of liquid. How do you use baking soda?
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Set aside. What is the best way to do this with an electric mixer? The mixture should be pale and almost doubled in volume. Then, beat in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. How do you avoid over mixing cookies? I stir in the eggnog until everything is smooth and creamy. The dough will be soft.
Step 5: Drop by Tablespoons
Drop by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each. Is it possible to spread bread as it bakes? If so, give it some room to breathe. How do you make sure that your cookie scoop is the same size?
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Keep a close eye on them – they can go from perfect to burnt very quickly. The goal is for them to be soft and chewy, not crispy. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to another wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Cool & Glaze
While cookies are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, eggnog, and nutmeg. If you like eggnog, add more if needed. Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle them with the glaze. I like to use a spoon or piping bag for this. Let the glaze set before serving.
Step 8: Slice & Serve
Once the glaze is set, these are ready to devour! Serve them with a glass of milk, coffee, or hot chocolate. What are some great gifts to give as a gift?
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best Eggnog Molasses Cookies? What is the right pairing
For Breakfast:What’s a good morning treat? I love dipping them in my coffee!
For Brunch:Serve them on a platter with other holiday goodies like fruit, cheese, and quiches. What are some of the best ways to serve a brunch spread?
As Dessert:Can you serve them with vanilla ice cream or a warm apple crisp? The warm spices complement the apple perfectly.
For Cozy Snacks:What are the best ways to enjoy hot chocolate with milk? What are some comfort food recipes for a cold winter night? What is the best way to serve peppermint hot chocolate after tree trimming? What a wonderful tradition
How do I make Ginger Molasses Cookies?
What are some tricks that take cookies from good to absolutely delicious? What are the top tips for a successful career?
Butter:The butter *must* be softened. Not melted, not cold, but perfectly soften. This ensures that it creams properly with the sugar, which is key for a soft, chewy texture. I usually take it out of the fridge about an hour before I start baking.
Mixing Advice:Don’t overmix dough! Overmixing develops gluten in the flour, which can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined, and then stop. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
Ingredient Swaps:If you don’t have eggnog on hand, you can substitute it with milk or cream, but the flavor wont be as good. Is it the same thing? If you want to add more flavor, try adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough. You won’t regret it!
Baking Tips:Don’t overbake cookies! They should be soft and chewy in the center, not crispy. Keep a close eye on them in the oven, and take them out as soon as the edges are golden brown. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet as they cool.
Glaze Variations:Can you customize the glaze by adding different extracts or spices? What are some good substitutes for almond extract? You can use different types of milk or cream to thin out the glaze. If you want a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar.
Can dough be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days? Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap so it doesn’t dry out. What is a good cookie recipe when you want fresh baked cookies?
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
How do I store leftover cookies?
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They will stay soft and chewy, but the glaze may soften a bit.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They will be a bit firmer, but they will still taste delicious.
Freezer Instructions: Freeze the cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving. The glaze may crack a bit when thawed, but it won’t affect the taste.
If you’re planning on freezing the cookies, it’s best to freeze them without the glaze. Then, add the glaze after they’ve thawed. This will prevent the glaze from cracking and will keep the cookies looking their best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to recipe for Eggnog Ginger Molasses Cookies. They’re soft, chewy, and packed with warm spices, and they’re guaranteed to bring a little bit of holiday cheer to your kitchen. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll never go back to plain old gingerbread cookies again. They are the perfect make ahead dessert. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other holiday cookie recipes! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out. Happy baking!