An eggnog latte is the ultimate holiday drink, combining the rich creaminess of eggnog with bold espresso.
It’s a festive favorite that’s warm, comforting, and bursting with seasonal flavors.
While coffee shops charge a premium, making it at home is easy, affordable, and customizable to your taste.
You can enjoy this cozy treat anytime with just a few ingredients and simple steps.
How to Make an Eggnog Latte: At A Glance
- Brew Espresso: Prepare 1–2 shots of espresso or 3–4 oz strong coffee.
- Heat Mixture: Warm ½ cup eggnog and ½ cup milk to 140–160°F without boiling.
- Froth: Use a frother, whisk, or jar to froth the eggnog-milk mixture until foamy.
- Combine: Pour espresso into a mug, top with the frothed mixture, and gently stir.
- Garnish: Add whipped cream and freshly grated nutmeg for a festive touch.
What is an Eggnog Latte?
An eggnog latte is a festive coffee drink made by combining rich, creamy eggnog, steamed milk, and bold espresso.
It’s topped with a sprinkle of freshly ground nutmeg, adding a touch of holiday spice.
The drink has become a seasonal favorite, often associated with the warmth and nostalgia of the holiday season.
Originating as a luxurious twist on traditional coffee, it blends the comforting flavors of eggnog—a classic holiday treat—with the energizing kick of espresso.
While popularized by coffee chains like Starbucks, the eggnog latte has deep roots in the tradition of pairing coffee with spiced, creamy beverages during winter celebrations.
Its rich flavor and creamy texture make it a quintessential holiday indulgence, perfect for sipping by the fire or enjoying during festive gatherings.
Ingredients Needed
To make an eggnog latte, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together for a rich and festive drink.
- Espresso or Strong Coffee: Use 1 shot (about 1 ounce) of espresso. If using brewed coffee, opt for 3–4 ounces of strong coffee. For a more intense coffee flavor, double the espresso shots.
- Eggnog: Add ½ cup of eggnog. Store-bought options are convenient, but if you prefer homemade, make sure it’s thick and well-spiced. For a vegan alternative, use ½ cup of almond milk nog or oat milk nog.
- Milk: Use ½ cup of milk. Whole milk works best for a creamy texture, but 2% milk or non-dairy options like almond, oat, or soy milk can also be used. Adjust the ratio of milk to eggnog to match your desired flavor and creaminess.
- Spices and Sweeteners: Sprinkle freshly grated nutmeg (about ⅛ teaspoon) on top for garnish. Optional spices include a pinch of cinnamon or ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract. If needed, sweeten to taste with 1–2 teaspoons of maple syrup, brown sugar, or flavored syrups like caramel.
- Optional Add-ins: Top with 2 tablespoons of whipped cream for added richness. For a spiked version, add 1–1½ ounces of alcohol, such as rum, bourbon, or Baileys. For extra flavor, try 1 tablespoon of flavored syrup, like peppermint or hazelnut.
Equipment Required
Here’s a list of the essential equipment needed, along with alternatives if you don’t have specialized tools:
1. Espresso Machine (or Substitute)
An espresso machine is ideal for brewing rich, concentrated coffee.
If you don’t have one, a Moka pot, French press, or even instant espresso powder can work as substitutes.
For regular brewed coffee, ensure it’s strong enough to match the espresso flavor.
2. Milk Frother
A handheld or countertop milk frother is perfect for creating a thick, frothy eggnog-milk mixture.
If you don’t have one, you can:
- Use a whisk to manually froth the mixture.
- Shake the mixture in a sealed mason jar until frothy.
- Blend the mixture in a blender for a few seconds.
3. Saucepan
A small saucepan is necessary for gently heating the eggnog and milk on the stovetop.
Be careful not to boil the mixture, as it can affect the flavor and texture.
4. Microwave (Alternative to Saucepan)
If you prefer, the eggnog and milk can be heated in a microwave-safe container.
Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until steaming.
5. Measuring Cups
Use a 2-cup measuring cup to combine and froth the eggnog and milk mixture.
This helps prevent spills when frothing as the mixture doubles in volume.
6. Thermometer (Optional)
A kitchen thermometer ensures the eggnog mixture reaches the ideal temperature of 140-160°F without boiling.
This helps maintain the creamy texture.
7. Coffee Mug
A larger latte mug is recommended to accommodate the espresso, frothy eggnog mixture, and any optional toppings.
8. Grater (or Spice Shaker)
A small grater is needed to freshly grate nutmeg for garnish.
Alternatively, a spice shaker with pre-ground nutmeg can be used.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Follow these simple steps to make a rich and creamy eggnog latte at home.
The process is straightforward and allows for easy customization.
Step 1: Brew the Espresso
- If using an espresso machine, brew 1–2 shots (1–2 ounces) of espresso.
- For alternatives, prepare 3–4 ounces of strong coffee using a Moka pot, French press, or instant espresso powder.
- Pour the espresso into a large latte mug and set aside.
Step 2: Heat the Eggnog-Milk Mixture
- Combine ½ cup of eggnog and ½ cup of milk in a small saucepan or microwave-safe container.
- Heat over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until steaming (do not boil). Alternatively, microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals until hot.
- Optional: Use a thermometer to ensure the temperature reaches 140–160°F for the best texture.
Step 3: Froth the Mixture
- Use a handheld frother to froth the heated eggnog-milk mixture until it doubles in volume (about 30–60 seconds).
- If you don’t have a frother, whisk vigorously, blend the mixture for a few seconds, or shake it in a mason jar with a lid until frothy.
Step 4: Combine the Components
- Pour the frothy eggnog-milk mixture over the hot espresso in the mug.
- Gently stir to combine the layers, but avoid overmixing to preserve the foam.
Step 5: Add Toppings
- (Optional) Top the latte with 2 tablespoons of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Sprinkle freshly grated nutmeg over the top for a warm, festive finish.
- Add a dash of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel syrup for additional flavor, if desired.
Your eggnog latte is ready to enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Eggnog Latte
Eggnog is naturally sweet, so taste the mixture before adding sweeteners.
If needed, add a small amount of maple syrup or flavored syrup to match your preference.
Adjust the milk-to-eggnog ratio to control richness—use more eggnog for a creamier drink or more milk for a lighter texture.
Finally, finish with freshly grated nutmeg for a warm, festive touch, and enjoy your latte immediately for the best flavor and foam consistency.
Variations and Customizations
Iced Eggnog Latte
For a refreshing cold version, start by brewing your espresso and letting it cool to room temperature or chilling it in the fridge.
Fill a tall glass with ice and pour the cooled espresso over it.
Combine ½ cup of eggnog and ½ cup of milk in a container and froth the mixture cold using a handheld frother or by shaking it in a sealed jar until foamy.
Pour the cold, frothy eggnog-milk mixture over the espresso and stir gently.
Top with freshly grated nutmeg or whipped cream if desired, and serve immediately.
Vegan/Dairy-Free Options
To make a vegan or dairy-free eggnog latte, replace traditional eggnog with plant-based options like almond milk nog or oat milk nog.
These alternatives retain the creamy texture and holiday flavors while being suitable for those avoiding dairy.
Substitute the milk with almond, soy, or coconut milk to complement the plant-based eggnog.
Froth these mixtures just as you would with regular ingredients, though oat milk nog typically froths best.
Flavor Enhancements
Add a twist to your eggnog latte by incorporating flavored syrups.
Caramel, vanilla, or hazelnut syrups enhance the sweetness and add depth to the drink.
For a spiced variation, include a dash of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon while heating the eggnog mixture.
You can also experiment with maple syrup for a natural sweetener or peppermint syrup for a festive holiday flavor.
Spiked Version
For an adults-only treat, turn your eggnog latte into a spiked version.
Add 1–1½ ounces of rum, bourbon, or Baileys to the espresso before mixing in the frothy eggnog-milk mixture.
Stir gently to blend the flavors and top with whipped cream for a decadent finish.
Freshly grated nutmeg enhances the presentation and adds a warm, spiced aroma.
Serve hot or iced, depending on your preference, for a cozy or refreshing indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
An eggnog latte pairs wonderfully with classic holiday treats or a cozy breakfast spread.
Serve it alongside freshly baked gingerbread cookies, cinnamon rolls, or a slice of fruitcake to complement the drink’s creamy, spiced flavors.
For a lighter pairing, try it with a buttery croissant or a simple biscotti.
To make the presentation festive, use a large holiday-themed mug and top the latte with a swirl of whipped cream.
Sprinkle freshly grated nutmeg or add a dusting of cinnamon for a warm, aromatic finish.
For an extra special touch, garnish with a cinnamon stick or a drizzle of caramel syrup.
If serving to guests, place the latte on a tray with a few holiday cookies or candy canes for a complete and visually inviting experience.
These small details elevate the drink and make it perfect for holiday gatherings or a quiet, indulgent moment at home.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover eggnog latte or unused eggnog-milk mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To maintain the best flavor and texture, avoid freezing the mixture, as the milk and eggnog may separate upon thawing.
When reheating, pour the stored latte or mixture into a small saucepan and warm it gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
Avoid boiling, as this can cause the eggnog to curdle or the flavors to become overly concentrated.
If using a microwave, heat the mixture in 20–30 second intervals, stirring in between, until it reaches the desired temperature.
For reheated lattes, re-froth the eggnog-milk mixture with a handheld frother or whisk to restore the creamy foam.
While reheating works well for saving time, freshly made eggnog lattes always provide the best taste and texture.
Conclusion
Making a homemade eggnog latte is a simple way to bring holiday cheer into your home.
It’s rich, festive, and completely customizable to your taste.
With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create a cozy drink that rivals any coffee shop version.
Try the recipe, experiment with variations, and enjoy the process.
Share your experience and let us know how your perfect eggnog latte turned out!
FAQs
Does an eggnog latte contain caffeine?
Yes, an eggnog latte typically contains caffeine from the espresso or strong coffee used as its base.
You can make a decaf version by using decaffeinated coffee or espresso.
Can I make an eggnog latte without an espresso machine?
Absolutely! You can use a Moka pot, French press, or instant espresso powder to brew strong coffee.
These methods work well as a substitute for espresso and still provide a rich coffee flavor.
What are the best eggnog brands to use?
Store-bought options like Horizon Organic, Trader Joe’s Eggnog, or Almond Breeze Nog are great choices.
For a homemade touch, you can also make your own eggnog using milk, egg yolks, sugar, and spices.
How can I froth the eggnog without a frother?
If you don’t have a frother, you can whisk the eggnog-milk mixture vigorously, blend it for a few seconds, or shake it in a sealed jar until it becomes frothy.
Can I make an eggnog latte dairy-free?
Yes, you can use plant-based alternatives like almond milk nog, oat milk nog, or soy milk nog.
These options create a delicious vegan eggnog latte with similar creaminess and flavor.
Is an eggnog latte very sweet?
Eggnog is naturally sweet, so most recipes don’t require added sugar.
If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can add maple syrup, flavored syrups, or your favorite sweetener.
Can I make this drink alcohol-free?
Yes, eggnog lattes are traditionally non-alcoholic.
However, you can spike the drink with rum, bourbon, or Baileys if you prefer a boozy version.
What’s the best way to serve an iced eggnog latte?
To make an iced eggnog latte, brew the espresso and let it cool.
Pour it over ice, then add cold, frothed eggnog and milk.
Stir gently and garnish with nutmeg for a festive touch.
Can I prepare the eggnog mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare and store the eggnog-milk mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently and froth before assembling the latte.
