Description
These Eggnog Cookie Bars combine the cozy flavors of classic eggnog with the soft, chewy texture of cookie bars. Topped with a creamy eggnog frosting and a pinch of nutmeg, they make a festive and delightful treat perfect for holiday celebrations or any time you crave a spiced, sweet snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Bars
- 1/2 cup butter, salted or unsalted, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup eggnog
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Frosting
- 1/4 cup butter, salted or unsalted, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup eggnog
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, letting the paper overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, then add the eggnog and vanilla extract. Mix well until all wet ingredients are fully incorporated with the butter-sugar mix.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Mix Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until no flour streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix to keep the bars tender.
- Shape and Bake: Press the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 27 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow bars to cool completely in the pan.
- Make Frosting: While the bars cool, prepare the frosting. Beat the softened butter, powdered sugar, eggnog, and vanilla extract together in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Frost Bars: Once the bars are fully cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula or knife. Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg over the frosting for garnish.
- Chill and Serve: Chill the frosted bars in the refrigerator for a few minutes to let the frosting set. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan, then cut into 16 squares and serve.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the butter is softened but not melted when creaming.
- Using parchment paper will make removing the bars easier and helps with cleaner edges.
- You can adjust the amount of nutmeg according to your taste preference or substitute with cinnamon for a different spice note.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Allow bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (approx. 2 inch square)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
