Cake Mix Eggnog Cookies

Cake Mix Eggnog Cookies bring the warmth and cheer of the holidays right into your kitchen. With just a few simple steps and everyday ingredients, these cookies deliver a soft, chewy bite infused with the nostalgic flavors of nutmeg and vanilla. They have become my quick go-to treat when I want something festive without spending hours baking.

My family first had these at a winter gathering and immediately requested them year after year. They are now a staple whenever eggnog season rolls around.

Ingredients

• Vanilla cake mix: One box provides a sweet, fluffy base that keeps the cookies tender choose a high-quality brand for the best taste
• Eggnog: Half a cup adds moisture and the signature holiday flavor use your favorite brand or homemade
• Unsalted butter softened: Adds richness and helps bind everything together room temperature butter blends more easily
• Large egg: Acts as a binder to hold the dough together and adds moisture for softness
• Freshly grated nutmeg: A small amount packs a punch of warm, spicy aroma freshly grated is far superior to pre-ground for flavor
• Powdered sugar for dusting: Adds a delicate sweetness and festive touch make sure it’s finely sifted to avoid clumps

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Combine Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, pour in the vanilla cake mix, eggnog, softened butter, egg, and grated nutmeg. Stir gently until the dough is smooth and evenly mixed. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Shape the Cookies:

Using a rounded tablespoon, scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave enough space between each cookie to allow spreading without merging.

Bake:

Place the trays in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep a close eye for the edges to turn golden while the centers remain soft for the perfect chewy texture.

Cool and Dust:

Let the cookies sit on the baking sheets for five minutes after removing them from the oven. Transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. Once cool, lightly dust each cookie with powdered sugar to add sweetness and a festive look.

Save

One of my favorite parts about this recipe is the freshly grated nutmeg which always fills the kitchen with the scent of the holidays. A special memory comes to mind of baking these with my kids while holiday music played in the background—it became a treasured family tradition.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain their softness. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the vanilla cake mix with yellow or white cake mix depending on your taste preference. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based eggnog and vegan butter. Ground nutmeg can replace freshly grated, though the flavor will be less vibrant.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or spiced tea. Serve them at holiday parties alongside other seasonal treats for a festive spread. They also work as a delightful after-dinner dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Pro Tips

• Make sure the butter is soft but not melted to ensure the perfect dough consistency
• Don’t skip the freshly grated nutmeg—it really makes a difference in flavor
• Watch the baking time closely Because the cookies can quickly go from chewy to crisp at the edges

Recipe FAQs

→ What gives these cookies their moist texture?

The combination of eggnog and softened butter creates a tender, moist dough that bakes into soft, chewy cookies.

→ Can I substitute the vanilla cake mix with another flavor?

You can experiment with other cake mix flavors, but the vanilla provides a neutral base that complements eggnog and nutmeg best.

→ How do I know when the cookies are perfectly baked?

Look for golden edges while keeping the centers soft to ensure a tender, chewy bite.

→ What role does nutmeg play in these treats?

Freshly grated nutmeg infuses the cookies with warm, spicy notes that enhance their festive character.

→ Is it necessary to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling isn’t required here; the dough can be scooped and baked immediately for convenience without affecting texture.