The holidays call for desserts that feel magical, nostalgic, and impossible to resist, and these Eggnog Sugar Cookie Cups check every box. Buttery sugar cookies hold a creamy, spiced eggnog custard filling that’s smooth, rich, and perfectly festive. Each bite blends the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla with the sweetness of Christmas memories.
What makes this Eggnog Sugar Cookie Cups special is how simple it is to pull together. You can use refrigerated sugar cookie dough or make your own from scratch. The filling comes together quickly on the stovetop and sets beautifully in the cool cookie shells.
Whether you’re preparing for a cookie exchange, a holiday party, or just baking for cozy evenings at home, these mini desserts deliver holiday flavor in one delightful bite. They’re charming, portable, and guaranteed to bring cheer to any dessert table.
The Story & Inspiration Behind Eggnog Sugar Cookie Cups
The idea for these Eggnog Sugar Cookie Cups came from one of my favorite holiday traditions — making sugar cookies with my family while sipping warm eggnog by the fireplace. I wanted to capture that exact flavor pairing in one bite-sized treat.
Instead of topping cookies with frosting, I decided to fill them with a silky, spiced eggnog custard. The result? A dessert that’s both familiar and unique — soft, buttery cookie shells holding creamy, golden filling that tastes like a Christmas dream.
These treats are the perfect mix of cozy and elegant. They’re simple enough for a weeknight bake but beautiful enough for your holiday spread. Each cup looks like a tiny edible ornament — a crisp edge, creamy center, and a swirl of whipped cream on top.
If you love the comforting sweetness of my Honey Butter Pull-Apart Rolls or the rich creaminess of my Cottage Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies, these cups will fit right into your festive baking rotation.
Eggnog has always been a symbol of celebration. The creamy custard base pairs perfectly with sugar cookies, creating the ultimate Christmas dessert duo. Serve them warm or chilled — either way, the flavors deepen beautifully after a few hours of rest.
Every bite tastes like Christmas morning — comforting, spiced, and joyfully sweet.
Ingredients & Preparation of Eggnog Sugar Cookie Cups
Ingredients
For the Cookie Cups:
- 1 roll refrigerated sugar cookie dough (or use homemade dough)
For the Eggnog Filling:
- 1 cup eggnog
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream and ground cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven:
Set to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
2. Form cookie cups:
Roll cookie dough into 1-inch balls and place in each tin. Bake 10–12 minutes until golden and puffed.
3. Shape:
Immediately press the center of each cookie with a spoon to form a cup. Let cool completely before filling.
4. Make filling:
In a small saucepan, whisk together eggnog, sugar, cornstarch, and nutmeg. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until thick and creamy. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
5. Assemble:
Spoon cooled custard into cookie cups and chill for at least 1 hour to set.
6. Finish:
Top with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon before serving.
For more festive flavor, add a few drops of rum extract or sprinkle crushed peppermint on top. These cups, like my Fruit Salad with Peaches, balance sweetness with freshness beautifully.
Secrets, Tips & Variations of Eggnog Sugar Cookie Cups
Baking Tips
- Use cold dough: Chilled dough helps the cups hold shape better during baking.
- Don’t overbake: Remove from the oven when edges are golden and centers slightly soft — they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Shape immediately: Press centers while warm; if you wait too long, the cookie shells may crack.
- Cook filling slowly: Stir constantly over low heat for a smooth, lump-free custard.
- Cool completely before filling: Warm cups will melt the custard.
Flavor Variations
- Gingerbread Sugar Cookie Cups: Use gingerbread dough for a deep molasses flavor.
- Chocolate Eggnog Cups: Mix cocoa into the filling for a rich chocolate twist.
- Boozy Version: Add a teaspoon of rum extract or bourbon to the filling for adult gatherings.
- Cranberry Garnish: Top with sugared cranberries for color and tart contrast.
- Nutmeg Whipped Cream: Whip cream with a pinch of nutmeg for an aromatic topping.
For another wholesome holiday recipe, try my Quinoa Chickpea Salad — it’s light, healthy, and balances these rich cups perfectly for a complete meal.
If you enjoy no-fuss recipes, my Cottage Cheese Fruit Bowl offers the same balance of creamy comfort and simplicity.
These Eggnog Sugar Cookie Cups are proof that even the smallest desserts can deliver the biggest flavors — easy to make, stunning to serve, and full of holiday magic.
Serving, Storage & Nutrition of Eggnog Sugar Cookie Cups
Serving Ideas
Serve these Eggnog Sugar Cookie Cups on a holiday dessert tray beside other small bites like truffles or mini cheesecakes. Their bite-sized shape makes them ideal for parties or gifting. Each cup delivers a perfect blend of buttery sweetness and creamy eggnog flavor that guests will love.
For a cozy touch, dust them with powdered sugar to resemble fresh snow, or top with gold sprinkles for a festive sparkle. You can also serve them slightly warm with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. For brunch gatherings, pair them with hot coffee, spiced cider, or a steaming mug of cocoa to complete the holiday feel.
Pair with my Healthy Spooky Dark Sangria for a holiday-inspired combination that brings warmth and a hint of spice. These cookie cups are elegant enough for a Christmas table yet simple enough for casual family nights.
Storage
Keep the cookie cups and eggnog filling separate if making ahead. Store cookie shells at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The filling can be refrigerated for the same amount of time. Assemble right before serving to preserve the crisp texture. For longer storage, freeze only the unfilled cookie cups and thaw before filling fresh. You can also refrigerate assembled cups for a few hours if you prefer them chilled and firm.
Nutrition Insight
Eggnog adds creamy richness full of calcium and protein, while sugar cookie dough provides comforting sweetness. Enjoy in moderation for a delightful balance of indulgence and tradition. The combination of soft cookie and silky custard gives you a treat that satisfies both cravings and nostalgia. If you love balanced treats like this, try my Banana Oat Pancakes— another comforting yet wholesome recipe perfect for cozy mornings or weekend brunches.
Nutrition
Notes
From your stove to our hearts
share your delicious take!FAQs
Can I make Eggnog Sugar Cookie Cups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare both the cookie shells and eggnog filling a day in advance. Store the cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature and the filling in the fridge. When ready to serve, fill the cups, top with whipped cream, and enjoy fresh, perfect texture every time.
Can I make Eggnog Sugar Cookie Cups from scratch?
Definitely! Homemade sugar cookie dough adds extra richness and structure. Use softened butter, sugar, flour, and vanilla for the dough, and chill it before baking. From-scratch dough gives these cups a bakery-quality flavor that truly enhances the creamy eggnog filling.
Can I use dairy-free eggnog in this Eggnog Sugar Cookie Cups?
Yes, almond, oat, or coconut-based eggnogs work beautifully in Eggnog Sugar Cookie Cups. They create the same creamy consistency and festive flavor. Just be sure to cook the filling slightly longer since plant-based versions tend to thicken more slowly.
How can I make the eggnog filling thicker?
If your custard feels too thin, add another half tablespoon of cornstarch or cook it gently for 2–3 extra minutes. The goal is a smooth, pudding-like texture that holds well in the cookie cups. Once cooled, the filling will naturally firm up even more.
Can I freeze Eggnog Sugar Cookie Cups?
Freeze only the unfilled cookie shells for best results. Once thawed, they’ll stay crisp and ready to fill with the creamy eggnog custard. Avoid freezing the filled cups — it can alter the texture of both the cookie and the custard filling.
Conclusion
This Quinoa Chickpea Salad proves that wholesome food can be simple, vibrant, and satisfying. With a mix of fluffy quinoa, hearty chickpeas, and crisp vegetables, it delivers everything you want in a meal-color, crunch, and balance. The lemon-parsley dressing ties it all together, creating a dish that feels light yet fulfilling.
It’s ideal for meal prep, picnics, or quick lunches, and it adapts easily to your favorite flavors. As BBC Good Food highlights, quinoa is one of the most versatile grains, rich in protein and nutrients that make every meal more complete.
Whether served on its own or alongside your favorite entrée, this salad is a refreshing reminder that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. With minimal effort, you’ll have a dish that tastes as good as it looks — fresh, colorful, and nourishing every single time.
