Name: Best Christmas Cookies with Nutmeg Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3/4 tsp freshly ground nutmeg; 1 large egg (at room temperature, about 70°F); 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter (preferably Kerrygold); 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (King Arthur recommended); 1/2 tsp baking soda; Pinch of salt; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; 1 tbsp powdered sugar

Ingredients

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp vanilla extract

3/4 tsp nutmeg (freshly ground for best flavor)

1 large egg (at room temperature, about 70°F)

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup softened butter (unsalted, such as Kerrygold)

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp baking soda

pinch of salt

For the topping:

1/4 tsp nutmeg

1 tbsp powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: In a small bowl, mix the flour, nutmeg, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.

Step 3: In a larger bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until fluffy using a mixer. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing. Scoop teaspoon-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them to allow for spreading.

Step 5: Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the cookie edges turn golden. Let the cookies cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: While the cookies are still warm, mix the powdered sugar with nutmeg. Sprinkle this topping evenly over each cookie. Allow cookies to cool fully before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly ground nutmeg for a more intense and fragrant flavor.

For a festive twist, add a handful of chopped nuts or dried cranberries to the batter.

Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and slightly denser texture.

Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading and get thicker cookies.

FAQs

Can I use pre-ground nutmeg instead of freshly ground?

Yes, you can use pre-ground nutmeg, but freshly ground nutmeg will provide a stronger, fresher flavor that really enhances the cookies.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the blend includes xanthan gum or another binding agent for best results.