As the winter season approaches, many of us look forward to a classic holiday treat: creamy eggnog. This rich and velvety beverage has been a staple of Christmas celebrations for centuries, and its popularity shows no signs of waning. Whether you like it sweet or savory, with a dash of spice or a splash of liqueur, there’s an eggnog recipe out there to suit your taste.
From classic homemade recipes to creative twists featuring bourbon, coconut, pumpkin spice, and more, we’ve rounded up 20 mouth-watering eggnog recipes that are sure to become new holiday traditions. So why not get cozy by the fire, grab a cup of (you guessed it) eggnog, and indulge in some delicious holiday baking and cooking?
Classic Homemade Eggnog
Eggnog is a beloved holiday tradition, and this classic recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks until they are light and fluffy.
3. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract and ground nutmeg.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a refrigerator-based process only.
Spiced Bourbon Eggnog
Warm up with this rich and creamy Spiced Bourbon Eggnog recipe, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Gradually add the egg mixture to the cooled milk mixture, whisking constantly.
5. Stir in bourbon whiskey (if using) and vanilla extract.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Vegan Coconut Eggnog
Cozy up with a creamy and deliciously rich vegan coconut eggnog perfect for the holiday season. This recipe uses plant-based milk and a hint of coconut to create a unique and indulgent beverage.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 cups non-dairy milk (such as almond, soy, or oat milk)
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together coconut milk, non-dairy milk, maple syrup, and cornstarch.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Pour into cups or a serving pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle with unsweetened shredded coconut if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Eggnog
Elevate your eggnog game with the warm spices of pumpkin pie and a hint of cinnamon. This creamy drink is perfect for cozying up on a chilly fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups eggnog
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of ground cloves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggnog, heavy cream, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
2. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a pinch of ground cloves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply chill and serve.
Chocolate Eggnog Truffles
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these rich, creamy, and indulgently chocolatey truffles infused with the warm flavors of eggnog.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup eggnog
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together softened butter, vanilla extract, and eggnog until smooth.
3. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar to the butter mixture and whisk until combined.
4. Fold in whipped cream until well incorporated.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Let cool slightly.
6. Roll truffle mixture into small balls (about 1 inch). Dip each ball into melted chocolate, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required. Chill in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Eggnog French Toast
Eggnog French Toast Recipe
Start your day with a delicious twist on the classic breakfast treat, infused with the warm spices and creamy flavor of eggnog.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Challah or Brioche work well)
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup or powdered sugar for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggnog, eggs, sugar, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the eggnog mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Repeat with remaining bread slices.
6. Serve French toast warm, topped with melted butter, maple syrup, or powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Eggnog Cheesecake
Celebrate the holiday season with this creamy and indulgent Eggnog Cheesecake. With its rich eggnog flavor, velvety texture, and caramelized sugar crust, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter and stir until combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in eggnog, vanilla extract, and granulated sugar until combined.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared crust and bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes
Eggnog Latte
Warm up with a cup of creamy goodness during the holiday season! This Eggnog Latte recipe combines rich eggnog, espresso, and steamed milk to create a deliciously festive drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of strong brewed coffee or espresso
– 1 cup of eggnog
– 3 tablespoons of sugar (or to taste)
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 2 cups of steamed milk
Instructions:
1. Brew two shots of strong coffee or espresso.
2. In a large mug, combine the brewed coffee, eggnog, sugar, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Steam 2 cups of milk to a silky smooth texture.
4. Pour the steamed milk into the mug with the eggnog mixture, holding back the foam with a spoon.
5. Top with the reserved foam, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply assemble and serve.
Enjoy your Eggnog Latte!
Eggnog Bread Pudding
Combine the classic flavors of eggnog and bread pudding to create a comforting dessert perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup eggnog
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggnog, sugar, flour, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth.
4. Stir in melted butter and bread cubes until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (optional) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Eggnog Ice Cream
Eggnog ice cream is a delicious and creamy dessert perfect for the holiday season. This recipe combines the rich flavors of eggnog with vanilla ice cream, creating a unique and tasty treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup egg nog (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the eggnog and vanilla extract to the mixture; whisk until well combined.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and place in the freezer to harden for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None
Servings: Approximately 1 1/2 quarts
Eggnog Pancakes
Start your day off right with these fluffy Eggnog Pancakes, infused with the warm spices and creamy goodness of eggnog. Perfect for a special holiday brunch or breakfast in bed.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup eggnog
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Cinnamon or nutmeg for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggnog, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls
Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls Recipe Summary:
Warm up your winter mornings with the sweet and spicy aroma of Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls, infused with the creamy goodness of eggnog and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of 1/4 inch. Spread with eggnog and sprinkle with cinnamon.
5. Roll up the dough tightly, cut into 12 equal pieces, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake at 375°F for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving. Enjoy!
Eggnog Fudge
This creamy fudge recipe combines the richness of eggnog with the sweetness of sugar, perfect for the holiday season. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this festive treat to share with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60ml) eggnog
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12 ounces (340g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, and eggnog. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Let cool slightly, then stir in white chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
6. Pour into prepared baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggnog Custard Pie
This classic pie recipe combines the warm spices of eggnog with a creamy custard filling, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cardamom until well combined.
3. Add heavy cream, eggnog, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with custard mixture.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until filling is set.
6. Allow to cool before serving. Top with whipped cream and nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Eggnog Martini
Experience the perfect blend of holiday cheer and sophistication with this creamy Eggnog Martini. A unique twist on the classic martini, this recipe combines the richness of eggnog with the smoothness of vodka.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 ounces vodka
• 1/2 ounce eggnog liqueur
• 1/2 ounce heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
• Pinch of nutmeg, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, eggnog liqueur, and heavy cream to the shaker.
3. Add simple syrup and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Sprinkle nutmeg over the surface of the martini.
Cooking Time: None
Servings: 1
Eggnog Rice Pudding
This creamy dessert combines the comforting flavors of rice pudding with the warm spices and sweetness of eggnog, perfect for a cozy holiday treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (cooled)
– 2 cups eggnog
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, eggnog, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the pudding thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggnog Donuts
Get cozy with these sweet and creamy Eggnog Donuts, perfect for the holiday season!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add milk, egg, eggnog, and melted butter. Mix until smooth.
4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and fry donuts in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil and dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Eggnog Smoothie
Kick off your holiday season with a creamy and delicious Eggnog Smoothie. This velvety treat combines the classic flavors of eggnog, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla ice cream to create a perfect winter pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup eggnog
– 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup vanilla ice cream
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine eggnog, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla ice cream.
2. Add ground cinnamon and nutmeg; blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice to your liking.
4. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes for a thicker consistency.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Eggnog Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes are infused with the rich flavors of eggnog, perfect for a cozy winter treat or holiday gathering. Top them with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg for an extra-special touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup eggnog
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar and whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, eggnog, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before topping with whipped cream and confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Eggnog Tiramisu
Combine the classic Italian dessert with the warm spices of eggnog, and you get a unique holiday treat that’s sure to impress. This creamy, coffee-infused delight is perfect for serving at your next festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine coffee and eggnog. Dip each ladyfinger into the mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. To assemble, create a layer of ladyfingers in a serving dish, followed by a layer of the mascarpone mixture. Repeat process two more times, finishing with a layer of mascarpone on top.
4. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (excluding chilling time)
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 creamy eggnog recipes! From classic homemade eggnog to spiced bourbon and vegan coconut variations, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at pumpkin spice eggnog, chocolate truffles, or French toast. Indulge in cheesecake, lattes, bread pudding, ice cream, pancakes, cinnamon rolls, fudge, custard pie, martinis, rice pudding, donuts, smoothies, cupcakes, and tiramisu. Whether you’re a traditionalist or looking to mix things up, these delicious recipes will keep your holiday season merry and bright.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
