Eggnog Latte Cookies

Eggnog Latte Cookies are the perfect blend of festive flavors that bring warmth and cheer to any occasion. These delightful cookies combine the creamy richness of eggnog with the robust taste of espresso, creating a sweet treat that is sure to impress your family and friends. With their soft texture and crispy edges, these cookies are ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavor: Experience the unique combination of eggnog and espresso in every bite.
• Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these cookies as a dessert or a special snack with your favorite holiday beverage.
• Perfect for Gifting: Package them up for friends and family to share the joy of the season.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are sure to be a hit at any holiday party or gathering!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Heat-safe bowl
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Refrigerator

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy butter-sugar mixture effortlessly.
• Heat-safe bowl: Essential for melting chocolate gently without burning it.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

To create these delightful Eggnog Latte Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

Dry Ingredients

• 2 & 1/3 cups all-purpose flour (330 grams, see notes)
• 1 tsp Diamond Crystal kosher salt (use 1/2 tsp if using Morton’s)
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp each of ground cinnamon, espresso grounds
• 2 tsp baking powder

Wet Ingredients

• 16 tbsp salted butter (226 grams)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (lightly packed, 95 grams)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (110 grams)
• 1/3 cup eggnog (80mL)

Add-ins

• 1 & 1/2 cups white chocolate chips (250 grams)
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp espresso grounds
• 2 tsp smoked flakey salt

How to Make Eggnog Latte Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the White Chocolate Mixture

Begin by making the espresso white chocolate chips. In a heat-safe bowl, add the white chocolate chips along with nutmeg and espresso powder. Bring a pot of water to a simmer. Place the bowl on top, stirring constantly until melted. Alternatively, you can microwave it in 30-second increments until fully melted.

Step 2: Chill the Mixture

Spread the melted white chocolate mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. It doesn’t need to be perfect; just spread it out evenly. Refrigerate while preparing the cookie dough.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients: flour, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, espresso grounds, and baking powder until well combined.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to cream together butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Eggnog

With the mixer running on medium speed, gradually stream in eggnog into the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until smooth and fluffy like whipped cream.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add dry ingredients in two installments into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined.

Step 7: Incorporate White Chocolate

Remove chilled white chocolate from the fridge. Chop it into small pieces about half the size of chocolate chips. Fold this into your dough until evenly distributed.

Step 8: Shape Dough

Scoop dough onto a piece of parchment paper. Form it into a circular log about 2 inches in diameter. Roll it up tightly in parchment paper and freeze for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Step 9: Preheat Oven

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 10: Slice and Bake

Take the roll out from the freezer. Cut it into approximately 16 pieces, each about 3/4 inch thick. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes until they look slightly underdone in the center.

Step 11: Finish with Salt

Once baked, sprinkle smoked flakey salt over each cookie while they are still warm. Enjoy your Eggnog Latte Cookies fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Eggnog Latte Cookies

Eggnog Latte Cookies are perfect for sharing and celebrating with loved ones. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your holiday gatherings.

With a Warm Beverage

• Pair these cookies with hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy treat on chilly days. The flavors of the cookie will complement your drink beautifully.

On a Festive Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter alongside other holiday treats. This presentation makes them an eye-catching centerpiece at any gathering.

As a Dessert Sandwich

• Spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting between two cookies to create a delicious dessert sandwich. This adds extra creaminess and flavor!

Gift-Wrapped Goodies

• Package the cookies in festive bags or boxes as gifts. They make wonderful homemade gifts that friends and family will appreciate.

How to Perfect Eggnog Latte Cookies

Making the perfect Eggnog Latte Cookies involves a few simple techniques to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground nutmeg and cinnamon provide more flavor than pre-ground spices, enhancing the overall taste of your cookies.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough before baking helps maintain their shape and results in chewier cookies.
• Don’t Overbake: Remove the cookies from the oven when they look slightly underdone. They will continue to firm up while cooling.
• Quality Chocolate: Use high-quality white chocolate chips for richer flavor and better melting consistency in your cookies.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try drizzling melted chocolate or adding chopped nuts on top for extra texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Eggnog Latte Cookies

These Eggnog Latte Cookies pair well with various side dishes that enhance their festive flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Hot Cocoa: A rich, creamy beverage that complements the spices in the cookies perfectly.
2. Pumpkin Pie: This classic dessert brings warmth and nostalgia, making it a great pairing for holiday treats.
3. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink infused with cinnamon and cloves enhances the cookie’s flavors beautifully.
4. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses that contrast nicely with the sweetness of the cookies for an exciting flavor profile.
5. Nut Mix: A mix of roasted nuts adds crunch and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing side of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the rich cookie flavors.
7. Oven-Baked Brie: This warm, gooey cheese topped with honey is an indulgent treat that pairs surprisingly well with sweet cookies.
8. Caramel Sauce: Serve alongside for dipping or drizzling; its rich flavor enhances each bite of cookie bliss.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Eggnog Latte Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies spreading too much while baking. Always freeze the dough as instructed to maintain shape.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long can make the cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a soft and tender cookie.
• Neglecting ingredient temperature: Using cold butter or eggs can result in uneven mixing. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for consistent results.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause cookies to bake unevenly. Use an oven thermometer to verify accuracy before baking.
• Not measuring flour properly: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Eggnog Latte Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the fridge.

Freezing Eggnog Latte Cookies

• Place baked cookies in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Eggnog Latte Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions you might have about making Eggnog Latte Cookies.

Can I use dairy-free eggnog in Eggnog Latte Cookies?

Yes, dairy-free eggnog works well as a substitute without compromising flavor or texture.

How do I make these cookies more festive?

Consider adding festive sprinkles or using holiday-shaped cookie cutters before baking.

Can I replace white chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can use dark chocolate chips or skip chocolate altogether based on your preference.

How should I store leftover dough?

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days before baking.

What makes these Eggnog Latte Cookies special?

The combination of eggnog and espresso creates a unique flavor profile perfect for holiday celebrations!

Final Thoughts

Eggnog Latte Cookies are a delightful treat that brings together rich flavors of eggnog and espresso into one delicious cookie. Their soft textures and sweet hints make them perfect for any occasion, especially during the holidays. Feel free to customize these cookies by adding your favorite nuts or swapping out chocolate types!