I still remember the moment I first tasted these Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies. It was a chilly afternoon in early December, and I was at a cozy holiday market with twinkling lights overhead and the scent of cinnamon in the air. A small bakery was offering samples, and when I bit into the Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies, the combination of warm spices and rich eggnog flavor surprised me in the best way. The spicy cookie dough paired with the creamy eggnog filling created a comfort that felt like a hug on a plate.

This experience perfectly captures what I want every recipe on Carmen Wausa Blog to be: approachable, comforting, and meaningful. These Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies aren’t complicated but deliver a depth of flavor that feels special and festive. Over several recipe tests in my kitchen, I adjusted the balance of spices and the eggnog filling until I was confident it would turn out beautifully for any fellow food lover. I’m genuinely excited to share this Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies recipe with you because it brings those cozy holiday feelings to your home kitchen.

If you love spiced cookie dough and thumbprint cookies recipes, this creation mixes the best of both worlds with a sweet, creamy center that is the essence of eggnog dessert without the fuss. It reminds me of other holiday cookies favorites, too — sort of like a delicious fusion between a classic gingerbread cookie and eggnog’s creamy charm. If you’ve admired recipes like the classic Chocolate Cut-Out Heart Cookies or the Orange Clove Cookies I shared before, this recipe fits beautifully alongside them for your seasonal dessert table.

Ingredients:

Putting together these Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies is refreshingly simple. Here’s the full list you’ll need, with some helpful notes for each ingredient:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – the base of our spiced cookie dough.
1 teaspoon baking soda – helps your cookies rise just enough.
1 tablespoon ground ginger – fresh and fragrant, not too overwhelming.
1 teaspoon cinnamon – warm spice that makes these unmistakably gingerbread.
½ teaspoon ground cloves – a little goes a long way here.
¼ teaspoon nutmeg – adds subtle warmth.
¼ teaspoon salt – balances all those lovely spices.
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened – for tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie texture.
¾ cup dark brown sugar, packed – this adds a rich molasses note perfect for gingerbread cookies.
1 large egg – brings everything together.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – the secret ingredient that lifts flavor.
¼ cup eggnog – this is the magic touch, infusing the cookie dough with that classic eggnog dessert taste.

For the filling:

½ cup eggnog – increased richness straight in the center.
2 cups powdered sugar – to make the perfect creamy, sweet filling.
2 tablespoons heavy cream – adds silky smoothness.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract – rounds out the eggnog flavor.

You’ll find the best ingredients for this Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies recipe at your local grocery or specialty baking shop during the holidays. If you want to splurge on one ingredient, let it be the fresh, high-quality eggnog — it really makes a difference in the flavor’s authenticity. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute almond or oat milk nog alternatives, which still deliver lovely richness.

If you prefer a gluten-free twist, I recently came across this amazing Gluten-Free Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies recipe with Eggnog Ganache that’s worth trying along with mine.

Remember to let your butter soften to room temperature ahead of time for smooth mixing. And store the spices in airtight containers to keep the flavors bright.

Let’s Make This!

Here comes the fun part — making your Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies from scratch! Don’t worry — your kitchen is about to fill with those classic holiday aromas, and the results are going to feel like a warm celebration at home.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Whisk together the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. This is your spiced cookie dough base and will smell incredible.
Cream the butter and sugar: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened butter and brown sugar on medium speed until fluffy — this takes about 3-4 minutes.
Add the egg and vanilla: Beat in your egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until smooth. Your dough starts to come together here.
Mix in the eggnog: Gradually add the eggnog to the wet ingredients and beat until fully combined. This is where the eggnog flavor really infuses the spiced cookie dough.
Slowly add the dry ingredients: Mix in the flour-spice mixture in batches just until combined, being careful not to overmix.
Scoop and shape: Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, roll dough into 1-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on parchment-lined baking sheets.
Create thumbprints: Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to gently press into each ball’s center, creating a well for the filling.
Bake for 9-11 minutes: The cookies should feel set around the edges but still soft in the center. Don’t overbake; these will firm up as they cool.
Cool slightly: Let cookies rest 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

While your Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies cool, whisk together the filling by combining eggnog, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. The filling should be thick enough to hold its shape but soft enough to pipe.

Once cookies are fully cool, pipe or spoon the eggnog cream into each thumbprint well. This step transforms your cookies into a festive centerpiece.

If you’ve been following my blog, you might remember when I perfected Cake Mix Cookies Delight — the key to success here is being gentle with the dough and timing your bake just right.

Remember, your Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies should smell warm and inviting, with a slight crispness on the edges and a soft center holding that luscious eggnog filling. Take a moment and savor the aroma — it’s part of the holiday magic.

This step might seem tricky, but I promise your Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies will work perfectly if you follow the timing and handling tips.

Serving & Presentation:

Serving these Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies brings joy to every holiday gathering. I like to arrange them on a festive platter, drizzling a little extra eggnog filling on top for a pretty touch. The contrasting colors of the warm brown cookies and creamy white filling invite guests right in.

Pair your Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies with a cup of warm spiced cider, rich hot chocolate, or a classic mug of eggnog. These combinations highlight the flavors, making every bite a cozy experience.

Perfect for holiday cookie trays, gift boxes, or cozy family dessert nights, these cookies always spark smiles and compliments. Once I served them at a friend’s holiday brunch, and the sweet-spiced aroma filled the room, cozy conversations blossomed naturally.

If you’re curious about variations, I’ve tested adding a hint of orange zest to the spiced cookie dough or swapping the eggnog filling for a rich chocolate ganache inspired by a favorite from Two Cups Flour’s Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies. Both bring a fresh twist without losing the heartwarming vibe.

Leftovers? These cookies taste wonderful refrigerated for a day or two — just be sure to keep them covered so the filling stays creamy. For a creative snack, try nesting a few with a scoop of vanilla ice cream between — instant delight!

FAQs:

Can I make these Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day ahead and chill it. This resting time actually helps develop the flavors in your spiced cookie dough. Bake them fresh the next day for best results.
What if I don’t have fresh eggnog?
If fresh eggnog isn’t available, shelf-stable versions work well too. Alternatively, blend half milk with a sprinkle of nutmeg and vanilla extract for an easy substitute.
How do I know when my Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies are done?
Look for edges that are set and lightly firm but keep the center soft. Your thumbnail indents should hold their shape without the cookie spreading too thin.
Can this recipe be gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum for this thumbprint cookies recipe. Check out Snixy Kitchen’s gluten-free version for extra guidance.
How do I store leftover Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for 4 days to keep the eggnog filling creamy and fresh.
Is it okay to freeze these cookies?
You can freeze the plain baked cookies before filling them. Thaw completely before adding the filling for best texture.
How can I customize the filling?
Try adding a splash of rum extract or a pinch of cinnamon to your eggnog filling for a little extra holiday warmth.

Many food lovers in the community have shared their glowing feedback after trying my Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies recipe, and I love seeing how they make this recipe their own with fun variations.

Why This Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies Will Become Your New Favorite:

This Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies recipe captures everything I love about approachable, comforting meals — it’s simple to prepare, bursting with holiday warmth, and brings people together with every bite. It fits perfectly into the festive cookie rotation while standing out as a true eggnog dessert delight.

My Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies Success Tips:
– Always let your butter soften to room temperature for easier creaming.
– Chill your dough if it feels too soft before baking to keep the shape crisp.
– Don’t skip the step of cooling the cookies completely before filling, or the eggnog cream might melt.

Over the years, I’ve tried several variations of this recipe. One version swaps the filling for a dark chocolate ganache from Two Cups Flour’s lovely spin on Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies. Another favorite adds a simple orange zest twist to the spiced cookie dough for extra brightness. And for gluten-free fans, adapting to a flour blend from Snixy Kitchen’s gluten-free recipe brings all the eggnog and spice joy.

The version with classic eggnog filling gets the most smiles around my table, especially when served warm with hot beverages.

I encourage you to make these Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies part of your holiday baking this season. I’m confident you’ll find baking and sharing them as joyful as I do. These cookies have a way of creating special moments in any kitchen — the kind of comfort food memories that stick long after the holiday lights come down.

If you try this recipe, please come back and share your delicious results! There’s nothing sweeter than helping fellow food lovers create beautiful, comforting moments with these Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies. For more cozy holiday treats, don’t miss my Orange Clove Cookies, or the heartwarming Chocolate Cut-Out Heart Cookies. And if you want a quick crowd-pleaser, the Cake Mix Cookies Delight offers another easy, comforting option.

Also, I love what Two Cups Flour created with their version of Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies — it’s a beautiful nod to the classic that inspired me. For more holiday baking fun, check out this post about baking holiday cookies with Rosanna Pansino. And if gluten-free sounds like your path, Snixy Kitchen’s Gluten-Free Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies with Eggnog Ganache is a wonderful alternative worth exploring.

I can’t wait for you to enjoy these Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies as much as I do. Happy baking, fellow food lovers!

Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies

Print Recipe

Delight in these festive Eggnog Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies, combining warm spices and creamy eggnog for a perfect holiday treat. Soft gingerbread cookies are filled with a luscious eggnog-infused jam center.

Author: Carmen
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup eggnog
1/2 cup eggnog jam or preserves (store-bought or homemade)
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until combined.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the eggnog, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Stir until just combined.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of eggnog jam into each indentation.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and cookies are slightly puffed.
Remove from oven and allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Dust cookies lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

For an extra festive touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies or substitute the eggnog jam with spiced apricot preserves.