Classic Eggnog Sugar Cookies

If you’re looking for a festive, family-friendly cookie that’s almost too good to share, these Classic Eggnog Sugar Cookies are a must-bake.

These cookies combine the warmth of nutmeg, the creaminess of eggnog, and that soft sugar cookie texture everyone loves.

They’re perfect for holiday cookie trays, baking with the kids, or just enjoying with a mug of eggnog (or hot cocoa!) by the tree.

This recipe has been a family favorite in my kitchen for years.

Every time I make these, the whole house smells like the holidays, and my kids can’t wait to grab one fresh from the oven.

Plus, they’re super easy to make—even if you’re not a cookie pro.

Let’s get baking! 🎄

What You’ll Need

For the Cookies:

2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for sprinkling)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup eggnog

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons eggnog
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Pro Tips

Use Room-Temperature Ingredients – Softened butter and room-temperature egg help the dough mix evenly for perfect cookies.
Don’t Overbake – These cookies should look just set and lightly golden on the edges. They’ll keep baking on the tray after you take them out.
The Nutmeg is Key! – Freshly grated nutmeg adds a rich, warm flavor that really makes these cookies special.
Let Kids Help Glaze – The simple eggnog glaze is perfect for kids to drizzle over the cookies with a spoon. Messy = fun!
Chill the Dough if Needed – If the dough feels sticky, pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking.

Tools You’ll Need

Mixing bowls
Hand mixer or stand mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking sheets
Parchment paper
Cooling rack
Spoon or whisk for glaze

Substitutions & Variations

No Eggnog? – Use heavy cream with a splash of vanilla and nutmeg.
Add Cinnamon – Sprinkle a touch of cinnamon into the glaze for even more spice.
Make it Festive – Add red and green sprinkles on top before the glaze sets.
Dairy-Free Option – Swap butter for vegan butter and use almond or oat milk with a bit of nutmeg for the glaze.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can make the dough 1–2 days ahead and store it in the fridge, wrapped tightly. Let it soften slightly before baking.
Baked cookies freeze beautifully! Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

How to Make Classic Eggnog Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use a hand mixer (or stand mixer) to cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and eggnog until combined. The mixture may look slightly curdled—that’s okay!

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Scoop dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet (about 1 tablespoon per cookie). Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

While cookies cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, eggnog, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies and sprinkle with nutmeg.

Leftovers & Storage

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 3 months.