I’ve found that the Brown Butter Eggnog Cookie is a truly unique holiday treat that combines nostalgic flavors with a delightful chewy texture. The rich essence of brown butter and warming spices create a comforting atmosphere perfect for this season. If you’re curious about how to make these cookies, the preparation process and ingredients might surprise you. There’s much more to explore about this festive delight that you won’t want to miss.
What kind of recipe is it?
The Brown Butter Eggnog Cookie is a delightful holiday treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter with the festive essence of eggnog spices.
These cookies feature a soft, chewy texture, making them perfect for cozy winter gatherings. Ideal for fans of seasonal baking, they evoke warmth and nostalgia, perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holidays.
Whip up a batch to impress your guests, or simply indulge yourself with this comforting, flavorful cookie that embodies the spirit of the season.
Preparation Time
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Difficulty of Recipe | Moderate |
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Number of Servings | Approximately 24 cookies |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ¾ cups |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Egg yolk | 1 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tablespoon |
| Ground nutmeg | ½ teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon | ½ teaspoon |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Powdered sugar | For dusting (optional) |
| Eggnog (store-bought or homemade) | ½ cup |
| Ground cloves | ¼ teaspoon |
This table outlines the essential ingredients, along with the detailed quantities required to prepare Brown Butter Eggnog Cookies.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose | Alternative Option |
|---|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | To combine dry and wet ingredients thoroughly. | Any large bowl or pot can work. |
| Medium Mixing Bowl | To separate and whisk egg and egg yolk or other smaller quantities. | Smaller bowl from any set, or a ramekin. |
| Dry Measuring Cups | To accurately measure dry ingredients like flour and sugars. | Use a standard cup or jar; just ensure consistency in measurements. |
| Liquid Measuring Cups | To measure liquids like eggnog precisely. | Any clear cup with measurement markings will suffice. |
| Measuring Spoons | To measure small quantities of ingredients (e.g., spices). | Any set of teaspoons or tablespoons will do. |
| Stand Mixer/Hand Mixer | To cream butter and sugars, ensuring even mixing and aeration. | A whisk and elbow grease can be used as an alternative. |
| Rubber Spatula | To scrape down the sides of the bowl and fold in ingredients gently. | A wooden spoon can also work for mixing. |
| Wooden Spoon | For stirring ingredients together; useful for thicker doughs. | Any sturdy spoon will suffice. |
| Baking Sheets (2-3) | To spread and bake cookies evenly in the oven. | An unused large pizza pan or any oven-safe tray can be a substitute. |
| Parchment Paper/Silicone Mats | To line baking sheets for easy cookie removal and minimal sticking. | Lightly greased aluminum foil can be used instead. |
| Cookie Scoop/Spoon | To portion out cookie dough for even-sized cookies. | A regular tablespoon works fine for scooping. |
| Cooling Rack | To cool cookies evenly after baking, preventing sogginess. | A simple plate or any flat surface can be used as an alternative. |
| Oven Thermometer | To ensure the oven is at the correct temperature for even baking. | If unavailable, preheat the oven for a longer period and keep an eye on baking times. |
This table outlines the essential kitchen equipment needed to create Brown Butter Eggnog Cookies, detailing their specific roles in the recipe while also providing budget-friendly alternatives.
Cooking Steps
1. Gather all ingredients and tools listed in the essential kitchen equipment section. Measure out 115 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, 200 g (1 cup) brown sugar, 100 g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar, 240 ml (1 cup) eggnog, 1 large egg, 200 g (1 2/3 cups) all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt.
2. Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Position the oven rack in the center and prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone mats.
3. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the 115 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Continue heating until the butter turns a golden brown and develops a nutty aroma, approximately 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned butter, 200 g (1 cup) brown sugar, and 100 g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar.
Using a stand mixer (or hand mixer), cream together on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
5. Add 240 ml (1 cup) eggnog and 1 large egg to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
6. In a separate medium mixing bowl, whisk together 200 g (1 2/3 cups) all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt until well blended.
7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in the large mixing bowl while mixing on low speed.
Mix until just combined; don’t overmix. The dough will be slightly sticky.
8. Use a cookie scoop or a regular tablespoon to portion the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 5 cm (2 inches) apart.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear set but slightly soft.
Cookies should have a rich, buttery aroma.
10. Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for 5 minutes.
Gently transfer the cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely; this will enhance the texture as they cool down.
11. Allow the cookies to rest for 5–10 minutes after cooling to ensure they firm up slightly before serving.
Enjoy your Brown Butter Eggnog Cookies!
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate 100 g (1 cup) chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and richness.
- Choco-Mocha Bliss: Add 100 g (3.5 oz) of cocoa powder and swap eggnog with coffee-flavored creamer for a mocha twist.
- Gluten-Free Goodness: Substitute all-purpose flour with 200 g (1 2/3 cups) gluten-free flour blend to make the cookies gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free Treat: Replace unsalted butter with 115 g (1/2 cup) coconut oil and use plant-based eggnog for a dairy-free version.
- Vegan Variation: Use 100 g (1/3 cup) unsweetened applesauce in place of the egg and substitute butter with a vegan butter alternative.
- Spiced Pumpkin: Mix in 100 g (1/2 cup) pure pumpkin puree and increase the cinnamon to 1 tsp for a seasonal fall treat.
- Cranberry Citrus Twist: Fold in 100 g (1 cup) dried cranberries and the zest of 1 orange for a fruity, tangy flavor boost.
- Air-Fryer Cookies: Cook the cookies in an air fryer at 160 °C (320 °F) for 8–10 minutes for a quicker baking option.
Tips on plating and presentation
The art of plating can elevate your Brown Butter Eggnog Cookies from simple treats to delightful presents.
I love using various plating techniques like stacking cookies or arranging them in a cozy circle.
Don’t forget to add decorative garnishes! A sprinkle of nutmeg or a drizzle of caramel can really make your cookies shine and add a festive flair.
Enjoy presenting your creations!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
When you’re planning a gathering, pairing your Brown Butter Eggnog Cookies with complementary dishes can create a delightful culinary experience.
I love serving them alongside spiced pumpkin cheesecake or peppermint bark for the ultimate festive desserts.
For cookie pairings, consider gingerbread or snickerdoodles to add variety.
These combinations really elevate the festive atmosphere and impress my guests during the holiday season.
What drinks can I pair it with?
How about sipping on a warm cup of spiced cider alongside your Brown Butter Eggnog Cookies?
The flavors meld beautifully, creating a cozy treat. If you’re in the mood for something a bit stronger, try an eggnog cocktail.
The creaminess of the drink pairs perfectly with the buttery cookies, making it a delightful indulgence for the holiday season.
Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Brown Butter With Regular Butter?
Sure, I’ve substituted regular butter for brown butter before. While it works, I’ve noticed flavor differences; brown butter adds a nutty richness that regular butter just can’t match. Experiment and see what you prefer!
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
I usually store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them fresh and soft. If you want to extend their freshness, I sometimes freeze them in a zip-top bag!
Can I Freeze Brown Butter Eggnog Cookies?
Absolutely, I can freeze cookie dough! When you’re ready to bake, use quick thawing methods like leaving it in the fridge overnight or placing it at room temperature for a couple of hours. Enjoy fresh cookies!
Are There Gluten-Free Options for This Recipe?
Yes, I can use gluten-free flours like almond or coconut flour in the recipe. Also, I love substituting with vegan eggnog for a dairy-free version. It’s delicious and easy to adapt!
How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh?
These cookies stay fresh for about a week. I recommend using airtight containers as the best storage methods. For cookie freshness tips, adding a slice of bread helps keep them moist and delicious!