I tested different doughs until I found the one that makes eggnog thumbprint cookies soft, chocolatey, and totally foolproof. The eggnog ganache melts together in minutes and tastes amazing. These cookies feel festive and easy for any home baker to make.
Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, baking powder, and cornstarch. Set aside.
1 ¾ cup (210g) all-purpose flour, ½ cup (40g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp baking powder, 1 tsp cornstarch
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 1–2 minutes.
¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, 1 cup (213g) brown sugar
Beat in the egg and egg yolk for 30 seconds, scraping down the sides as needed.
1 large egg, 1 large egg yolk
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough will be very thick.
Scoop 1 tablespoon of dough (use a #60 cookie scoop) and roll into smooth balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar and place 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
Use the back of a teaspoon to press a divot into the center of each cookie before baking. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 10 minutes to firm up the dough. You can freeze longer if needed.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Bake for 10-11 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers still look soft. Remove from the oven and immediately use the teaspoon again to gently deepen the center indentation as it disappears while baking.
Allow cookies to cool completely before filling.
Filling
Place the white chocolate chips in a bowl. In a microwave-safe measuring cup, microwave the eggnog for 30 to 45 seconds, or until steaming and very hot. Pour the hot eggnog over the white chocolate chips and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and the ganache is smooth. If needed, microwave the mixture in 10-second bursts to finish melting. Allow the ganache to set and thicken for at least 30 minutes. Speed up the process by putting it in the fridge.
6 Tbsp eggnog, 1 cup (170g) white chocolate chips
Once thickened, spoon about 1 teaspoon of the eggnog ganache into the center of each cookie. Lightly dust the tops with ground nutmeg. Allow the ganache to set before serving or storing.
Nutmeg
Notes
Gluten Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. I use King Arthur’s Measure for Measure Gluten Free Flour.To Store: Keep in an airtight container for up to four days.To Make Ahead: Chill the dough for up to twenty four hours before shaping and baking.To Freeze: Flash freeze the finished cookies, once frozen transfer to a freezer safe container or bag. To thaw, place a single layer of cookies on a baking sheet and thaw on the counter overnight. To freeze the cookie dough, roll into balls and flash freeze on a baking sheet. Then transfer to a freezer safe container or bag. To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight, then roll in granular sugar, make the indent and bake.How to Properly Measure Flour: The most accurate way to measure flour is by using a kitchen scale and weighing it in grams. If you do not have a scale, use the spoon and level method. Start by aerating the flour with a whisk or spoon because flour becomes compact as it sits. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup without tapping or shaking the cup, since that packs in extra flour. Level off the top with the back of a butter knife. Re fluff the flour each time you scoop so you get a consistent and accurate measurement.