Welcome to the world of classic Nutmeg Logs, where holiday flavors meet baking simplicity! These delightful cookies are a staple for any festive occasion, offering a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and buttery goodness. Bethany, from our kitchen, has crafted this recipe to be super easy, so even beginners can bake these irresistible treats. Get ready to fill your home with the warm aroma of nutmeg and create cherished memories.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Nutmeg Logs
- Effortless Baking: This recipe for Nutmeg Logs is simple and quick, requiring no chilling time for the dough.
- Deliciously Festive: Enjoy the perfect balance of warm nutmeg and a hint of rum extract, ideal for the holidays.
- Customizable Toppings: Easily adapt these cookies with your favorite garnishes to suit any taste or occasion.
- Freezer-Friendly: Both the cookie dough and the baked Nutmeg Logs freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep.
- Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These delightful cookies are always a hit, wonderful for gatherings, gifting, or a cozy evening snack.
Ingredients
Gather your pantry staples to create these delightful Nutmeg Logs. This recipe is divided into two parts: the cookie logs themselves and a luscious rum buttercream frosting.
For the Nutmeg Logs:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons rum extract
- 1 large egg
For the Rum Buttercream Frosting:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature)
- 2 to 4 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1 teaspoon rum extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- Cinnamon for sprinkling (optional)
Notes & Substitutions
For the best flavor, freshly ground nutmeg offers a significantly more vibrant flavor and aroma due to its essential oils remaining intact. Use freshly ground nutmeg if possible; it truly elevates the aroma. Always ensure your butter is at room temperature for both the cookie dough and frosting, as this creates a smoother mixture. As Bon Appétit explains, room-temperature butter is crucial for baking because it allows air pockets to form during creaming, contributing to a lighter baked good. You can use any milk or cream for the frosting, including non-dairy options, adjusting the amount to reach your desired consistency. If you prefer to avoid rum extract, vanilla extract or almond extract make good alternatives for a different flavor profile in your Nutmeg Logs. Fine sea salt or table salt works perfectly fine here.
Equipment
You won’t need anything fancy to bake these delicious Nutmeg Logs.
- An electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer) makes creaming butter easier.
- You’ll need a medium and a large mixing bowl.
- Standard measuring cups and spoons are essential.
- Baking sheets will hold your cookies.
- Wire cooling racks are vital for even cooling.
- A spatula or butter knife helps spread the frosting smoothly.
Instructions
Creating these delicious Nutmeg Logs is a straightforward process, perfect for beginners! Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time.
Logs
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Whisk together the flour, nutmeg, and salt in a medium bowl.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the granulated sugar and beat until light and fluffy, then mix in the vanilla extract, rum extract, and egg.
- Gradually beat the dry ingredients into the wet mixture on low speed until a cohesive, stiff dough forms.
- Roll small balls of dough into ropes approximately 1/2-inch in diameter, then slice each rope into 2 1/2-inch lengths.
- Arrange the dough logs 1 inch apart on un-greased baking sheets and bake for 12 to 18 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly browned.
- Cool the baked logs completely on wire racks before proceeding to frosting.
Frosting
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter, 2 tablespoons of milk, rum extract, and salt until combined.
- On low speed, gradually beat in the powdered sugar. Add more milk as needed to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Spread a small amount of frosting onto each cooled log. Use the tines of a fork to create a wood-like texture on the frosting, then sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.
- Store the finished nutmeg logs in airtight containers at room temperature for 3 to 4 days, layering with wax paper. Alternatively, they can be frozen for approximately one month.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
For perfect Nutmeg Logs every time, keep these tips in mind. Don’t overbake your cookies; check the bottoms for a light golden hue to ensure they stay soft. It’s essential to cool the cookies completely on wire racks before frosting, or your buttercream will melt. If your kitchen is warm and the dough becomes too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. Decorate immediately after frosting, as the buttercream sets quickly. Finally, to achieve the ideal texture, avoid overmixing the dough once the flour is added.
Serving, Storage & Variations
These delightful Nutmeg Logs are versatile for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair them perfectly with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or spiced apple cider for a cozy treat.
- Add them to your holiday cookie platters for a festive touch that guests will adore.
- Enjoy a few as a sweet snack throughout the day.
Storage Instructions:
- Store frosted Nutmeg Logs in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 to 4 days.
- Layer them with wax paper to prevent sticking.
- You can also freeze frosted cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Freezing Dough:
- Shape the raw dough into logs, then freeze them solid on a baking tray.
- Once solid, transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 1 month.
- Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Flavor Variations:
- Add 1 teaspoon of finely grated orange zest to the cookie dough for a bright, citrusy note.
- Substitute almond extract for rum extract in both the dough and frosting for a different nutty flavor profile.
- Experiment with other warm spices like a pinch of cardamom or allspice in the dough.
Decoration Variations:
- Press chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, onto the frosting for added crunch and flavor.
- Use colorful sprinkles for a fun, festive look, especially if baking with kids.
- Dust the frosted Nutmeg Logs with extra nutmeg for an intensified aromatic finish.
Nutrition
Please note that the nutritional information provided is an estimate. It is calculated based on the ingredients listed and standard portion sizes, and may vary depending on specific brands, ingredient substitutions, and exact serving sizes.
| Nutrient | Per Cookie (Estimated) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 25mg |
| Sodium | 60mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Total Sugars | 15g |
| Protein | 2g |
FAQ
What is a nutmeg log?
A nutmeg log is a delicious, buttery, spiced cookie shaped like a small log, often topped with a rum-flavored frosting and a dusting of cinnamon. It’s a popular treat, especially during the holiday season.
Do I need to chill the dough?
No, this recipe for Nutmeg Logs is designed to be no-chill, making it a quick and convenient baking option. You can bake them right after mixing.
Can I use fresh nutmeg instead of ground?
Absolutely! Freshly grated nutmeg offers a more intense and aromatic flavor, which will elevate your cookies.
Conclusion
Baking these classic Nutmeg Logs brings a special kind of warmth and joy to any occasion. Their simple preparation, combined with their deliciously festive flavor, makes them an absolute delight for bakers of all skill levels. We hope you feel confident to try this easy holiday cookie recipe yourself and fill your home with their irresistible aroma. Share your creations and thoughts in the comments below – we’d love to hear how your Nutmeg Logs turned out!
Classic Nutmeg Logs: Your Easy Holiday Cookie Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
- Medium bowl
- Large bowl
- Electric mixer
- wire racks
- Baking sheets
- fork
- Airtight containers
Ingredients
Logs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons rum extract
- 1 large egg
Frosting
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature
- 2 to 4 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1 teaspoon rum extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- Cinnamon for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
Logs
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Whisk together the flour, nutmeg, and salt in a medium bowl.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the granulated sugar and beat until light and fluffy, then mix in the vanilla extract, rum extract, and egg.
- Gradually beat the dry ingredients into the wet mixture on low speed until a cohesive, stiff dough forms.
- Roll small balls of dough into ropes approximately 1/2-inch in diameter, then slice each rope into 2 1/2-inch lengths.
- Arrange the dough logs 1 inch apart on un-greased baking sheets and bake for 12 to 18 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly browned.
- Cool the baked logs completely on wire racks before proceeding to frosting.
Frosting
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter, 2 tablespoons of milk, rum extract, and salt until combined.
- On low speed, gradually beat in the powdered sugar. Add more milk as needed to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Spread a small amount of frosting onto each cooled log. Use the tines of a fork to create a wood-like texture on the frosting, then sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.
- Store the finished nutmeg logs in airtight containers at room temperature for 3 to 4 days, layering with wax paper. Alternatively, they can be frozen for approximately one month.
