Name: Nutmeg Logs: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Christmas Cookies to Cherish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (Adds richness and moisture); ¾ cup granulated sugar (Sweetens and contributes to a tender texture); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Provides flavor depth); 1 teaspoon rum extract (Imparts a warm, festive flavor); 1 large egg (Binds the ingredients and adds moisture); 2 cups all-purpose flour (Forms the structure of the cookies); 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (Delivers the holiday spice flavor); 1 cup powdered sugar (Sweetens the icing for a smooth texture); 2 tablespoons milk (Thins the icing to your desired consistency); ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (Enhances the flavor of the icing); optional rum extract (Adds a festive touch to the icing)

The moment I take a bite of a nutmeg log, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where the air was filled with the alluring scent of freshly baked cookies. These festive eggnog-flavored Christmas cookies are a holiday staple that captures warmth and nostalgia, all while being incredibly simple to prepare. Infused with the delightful spices of nutmeg and a hint of rich rum, nutmeg logs have a melt-in-your-mouth quality that makes them perfect for sharing at family gatherings or cozy nights in. The best part? You can whip up a batch in no time, allowing you to sprinkle a little joy into this holiday season without the stress. What’s your favorite way to enjoy these festive cookies—dressed in sweet icing or simply plain?

Why are Nutmeg Logs so irresistible?

Crisp yet Tender: The delightful contrast of the soft, buttery crumb and a slightly crisp exterior make each bite a joy.

Festive Flavor: Bursting with the warm spices of nutmeg and a touch of rum, these cookies wrap you in holiday cheer.

Quick Prep: With just a few steps, you can enjoy these treats in no time, perfect for those busy holiday schedules.

Family Tradition: Every bite carries the essence of nostalgia, bringing back memories of cherished holiday moments.

Versatile Delights: Whether you frost them with sweet icing or enjoy them plain, they adapt to your holiday preferences.

Indulge in a delightful experience that combines ease and flavor with these classic nutmeg logs, a homemade favorite perfect for your festive gatherings!

Nutmeg Logs Ingredients

For the Cookies

Butter – Adds richness and moisture; use unsalted butter for better salt control.
Vanilla Extract – Provides flavor depth; swap with almond extract for a unique twist.
Rum Extract – Imparts a warm, festive flavor; substitute with extra vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic option.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and contributes to a tender texture; coconut sugar can offer a different flavor profile.
Egg – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; use a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; gluten-free flour works for a gluten-free version.
Nutmeg – Delivers the holiday spice flavor; freshly grated nutmeg is preferable for a stronger taste.

For the Icing

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the icing for a smooth texture.
Milk – Thins the icing to your desired consistency; consider non-dairy milk as a substitute.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor of the icing; almond extract can add a delightful variation.
Rum Extract – Adds a festive touch to the icing; optional based on your preference.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nutmeg Logs

Step 1: Make the Dough
In a mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and freshly grated nutmeg until well combined. Using a stand mixer, cream 1 cup of unsalted butter with ¾ cup granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of rum extract, and 1 egg, mixing until fully incorporated. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients until a dough forms.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies
On a clean workspace, divide the dough into manageable portions. Roll each portion into a log approximately ½ inch in diameter, and cut into 2-inch pieces, creating lovely nutmeg logs. Place them spaced apart on an ungreased baking sheet, ensuring they have room to spread during baking. This is where the festive spirit starts to take shape!

Step 3: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the cookies. Once the oven is heated, bake the nutmeg logs for 12–15 minutes, until they turn a light golden color on the edges but remain soft in the center. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking, as the nutmeg logs should be slightly soft when they come out of the oven.

Step 4: Make the Icing
While the cookies cool, prepare a simple icing by whisking together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a splash of rum extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency to your liking by adding more milk for a thinner icing or more powdered sugar for thicker coverage. This will be the sweet finishing touch to your nutmeg logs.

Step 5: Frost and Decorate
Once the nutmeg logs are completely cooled on a wire rack, generously frost each cookie with the icing you’ve prepared. For an extra festive flair, sprinkle a dash of nutmeg or holiday-themed sprinkles on top of the icing. This decoration not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a delightful seasonal touch to your lovely cookies.

Helpful Tricks for Nutmeg Logs

Avoid Over-Baking: The key to perfect nutmeg logs is removing them from the oven when they’re still slightly soft in the center. This ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Use Fresh Nutmeg: For the best flavor, always opt for freshly grated nutmeg rather than pre-ground. It elevates the holiday spirit in every bite.

Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool completely before icing. This prevents the frosting from melting and maintains your beautiful presentation.

Experiment with Icing: Feel free to adjust the icing thickness to suit your preference. A thicker icing creates a more substantial coating, while a thinner consistency can drizzle beautifully.

Storage Wisely: Store your nutmeg logs in an airtight container for optimal freshness, or freeze them for up to three months to enjoy later.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful nutmeg logs are wonderful for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first two steps: make the dough and shape the logs. Simply wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven and bake the cookies as instructed. For those who want to get a head start even earlier, the cookies can be baked and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days before icing. Just remember to wait until they are completely cooled before frosting for the best results. You’ll have delicious, festive nutmeg logs ready to share with family and friends with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Nutmeg Logs

Airtight Container: Store your nutmeg logs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their soft texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the nutmeg logs at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

Reheating: If you like them warm, microwave for a few seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.

What to Serve with Nutmeg Logs

The magic of the holiday season is best captured when you pair these delightful treats with comforting companions that elevate the festive spirit.

Hot Cocoa: This creamy beverage complements the cookies’ rich flavors, creating a cozy duo perfect for chilly evenings.
Chai Tea: The spiced notes in chai resonate beautifully with nutmeg logs, adding warmth and complexity to your treat time.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream offers a delightful contrast to the buttery cookies, bringing a creamy coolness to each bite.
Holiday Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits bring a splash of color and citrus brightness, balancing the sweetness of the nutmeg logs with a refreshing crunch.
Roasted Nuts: Their earthy crunch enhances the cookies’ soft texture while providing an inviting snack alongside your holiday festivities.
Spiced Cider: Warm apple cider infused with spices echoes the cozy flavors of the cookies, making it an ideal sip for gatherings.

Celebrating with these pairings will create memories steeped in warmth, joy, and festive delight!

Nutmeg Logs Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to put your unique spin on these delightful cookies to suit your taste and occasion!

Nutty Delight: Add crushed walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture. A handful of nuts can elevate the flavors and add an extra layer of richness.
Cinnamon Swap: Substitute nutmeg with cinnamon for a warm and spicy flavor twist. This change creates a completely different holiday cookie experience that many will adore!
Chocolatey Indulgence: Fold in chocolate chips for a rich and decadent twist. The sweet melty chocolate pairs perfectly with the warm spices, creating a cookie that’s hard to resist.
Dairy-Free Dessert: Use plant-based butter and your favorite non-dairy milk in the icing for a completely dairy-free treat. It’s a thoughtful option for those with dietary restrictions while still being festive and delicious!
Gluten-Free Alternative: Swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Just make sure to use a blend designed for baking to keep those delicious textures intact.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger for a surprising kick of heat. It’s a fun way to awaken your taste buds and keep things exciting during the holidays!
Icing Variations: Experiment with flavored extracts in your icing, like peppermint or almond. This can bring a fresh twist and pair beautifully with the nutmeg cookies, giving each bite a unique character.
Decorative Touches: For a finishing touch, drizzle melted chocolate over your cookies or sprinkle with edible glitter for a festive look. These little details make your nutmeg logs not just delicious but also visually stunning!

Regardless of the variations you choose, your nutmeg logs are sure to shine during the holiday festivities. And while you’re at it, why not try them with a side of hot cocoa or a cup of spiced tea for the ultimate cozy experience?

Nutmeg Logs Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best nutmeg for my recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, always opt for freshly grated nutmeg instead of pre-ground. Freshly grated nutmeg has a potent aroma and a warm, vibrant flavor that truly elevates your nutmeg logs to holiday perfection. You can use a microplane or a spice grater to grate it just before use, ensuring each cookie delivers that festive spice burst.

How should I store nutmeg logs to keep them fresh?
Very! Store your nutmeg logs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This helps maintain their soft texture and delightful flavor. If you need to store them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Can I freeze nutmeg logs for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze your nutmeg logs, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. This way, you can enjoy your festive cookies long after the holiday season. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

What should I do if my nutmeg logs spread too much while baking?
If your nutmeg logs spread too much during baking, it could be due to the dough being too warm. Make sure to chill the dough for about 30 minutes before shaping the logs. This helps the butter firm up, preventing excessive spreading. Also, double-check that you measured your ingredients accurately, especially the flour and butter, as their ratios are essential for the right cookie consistency.

Are nutmeg logs safe for pets or people with allergies?
It’s important to keep in mind that nutmeg can be toxic to pets, especially dogs and cats, so it’s best to keep these cookies out of their reach. If you’re serving guests with allergies, be sure to consider substitutions—such as using gluten-free flour or a flax egg—to accommodate dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy the festive treats.

How can I adjust the sweetness in my nutmeg logs?
Very simple! You can adjust the sweetness of your nutmeg logs by decreasing the amount of granulated sugar in the recipe. Since these cookies are already quite flavorful, reducing the sugar by ¼ cup can still yield a delightful treat. Alternatively, you might swap in coconut sugar, which has a lower glycemic index and adds a hint of caramel flavor.