Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract and rum extract (if using) until well combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 3: Add White Chocolate Chips

1. If desired, gently fold in the white chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy the festive flavors of your eggnog cookies!