These soft, chewy Eggnog Cookies are simple to make in an air fryer. They bake in minutes and deliver a consistent, tender result every time.
Eggnog Cookies
If you enjoy the rich, spiced flavor of eggnog, these eggnog cookies are an easy, crowd-pleasing way to enjoy that holiday taste. They’re soft, slightly chewy, and infused with the warm notes of cinnamon and vanilla. Best of all, they take only about 15 minutes from start to finish and are made in the air fryer—no oven required.
Eggnog has long been a holiday tradition in our family. From my great aunt’s famously boozy version to the milder store-bought varieties, the flavor brings a cozy, festive feeling to any gathering. These cookies capture that creamy, spiced profile in a portable treat the whole family can enjoy.
They’re perfect for last-minute holiday baking when time is tight, or anytime you want a simple seasonal cookie that’s quick to prepare and delicious to serve.
What Does Eggnog Taste Like?
Eggnog is a creamy, custard-like holiday beverage flavored with warming spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. Commercial eggnog is typically non-alcoholic and sweet, with a texture similar to a rich milkshake or soft custard. Homemade versions can include alcohol for adults, but the flavor profile—rich, spiced, and slightly sweet—translates nicely into cookies without tasting overtly of eggs.
Ingredients
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 sticks (3/4 cup) butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 egg yolks
- 1/2 cup eggnog
Kitchen Tools Used
- Air fryer
- Parchment paper
- Stand mixer or electric hand mixer
- Cookie scoop
Instructions
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and cinnamon in a large mixing bowl.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg yolks, eggnog, and vanilla until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Use a small cookie scoop to portion the dough into 16 equal balls. Arrange 4 dough balls on a sheet of parchment paper in the air fryer basket, leaving space for spreading.
- Air fry at 325°F for 6–8 minutes, or until the edges begin to firm and take on a light golden color. Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool and repeat with remaining dough.
Prep Tips
- A cookie scoop helps portion uniform cookies so they bake evenly.
- For a boozy note without using real alcohol, add 1 tsp rum extract to the batter. If using real rum, reduce eggnog slightly to keep dough consistency.
- Sprinkle sanding sugar or powdered sugar on top before or after baking for a festive finish.
- If you prefer, top cooled cookies with a thin layer of frosting for an extra creamy bite—think of it as a cookie version of whipped cream on eggnog.
- These cookies are lovely with a glass of milk or a mug of eggnog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Use Eggnog with Alcohol?
Yes. Both non-alcoholic and alcoholic eggnog will work in this recipe. Non-alcoholic eggnog keeps the cookies family-friendly, while traditional boozy eggnog will impart a subtle alcoholic note—adjust based on who will be eating the cookies.
Do These Cookies Need To Be Refrigerated?
Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4–5 days. For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped cookies in a freezer bag and thaw as needed.
Can You Bake These Cookies In A Conventional Oven?
Yes. If you don’t have an air fryer, bake the portioned dough in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes. Oven times vary, so watch for light golden edges to know when they’re done.
More Easy Christmas Cookie Recipes
- Chocolate Peppermint Kiss Cookies
- Christmas Oreos
- Amish Sugar Cookies
- Iced Gingerbread Cookies
- Grinch Snowball Cookies
- Candy Cane Sugar Cookies
- Hot Cocoa Cookies
- Easy Bourbon Balls
- Chocolate Gingerbread Cookies
- Christmas Light Cookies
Air Fryer Eggnog Cookies Recipe (Printable Recipe Card)
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Air Fryer Eggnog Cookies
Soft, chewy cookies with the cozy flavors of eggnog—quick to prepare and air-fryer friendly.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Stand mixer
- Air fryer
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 1/2 sticks)
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1/2 cup eggnog
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking powder
Instructions
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and cinnamon in a large bowl.
- Cream the butter and sugar in a mixer until light.
- Add the egg yolks, eggnog, and vanilla, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Portion into 16 balls. Place 4 on parchment in the air fryer basket and cook at 325°F for 6–8 minutes. Cool on a wire rack and repeat with remaining dough.
Notes
Nutrition information is an estimate.
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