If you’ve been craving a cozy holiday coffee drink, this eggnog latte recipe checks all the boxes. Eggnog and espresso come together to create a creamy, festive beverage that’s perfect for sipping on chilly mornings or at holiday gatherings. By warming and frothing the eggnog with milk, you get a frothy foam that rivals any coffee shop creation. Whether you like yours alcohol-free or prefer a boozy twist, it’s all about combining the comforting flavors of the season with your daily caffeine fix.
Ingredients
- 3.75–4 oz of brewed espresso (or very strong coffee)
- ⅔ cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
- ⅓ cup milk (2%, whole, or a plant-based alternative)
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Freshly grated nutmeg (for garnish)
Tip: If you’re short on eggnog, aim for a 2:1 milk-to-eggnog ratio. Pure eggnog can curdle when steamed on its own, so mixing in enough milk helps keep everything smooth.
Directions
Brew your espresso
- Prepare about 3.75–4 oz of espresso using an espresso machine or a stovetop moka pot. Pour it into your favorite mug.
Warm the eggnog and milk
- In a small saucepan or microwave-safe measuring cup, combine ⅔ cup of eggnog with ⅓ cup of milk.
- Gently heat this mixture until it’s steaming, but not boiling. If you use the microwave, heat on high for 1–1.5 minutes.
Froth the mixture
- Use a handheld or countertop milk frother to whip the eggnog and milk until it doubles in volume (about 45–60 seconds).
- If you don’t have a frother, pour the warm mixture into a clean mason jar, secure the lid, and shake vigorously until it’s foamy.
Combine and garnish
- Slowly pour or spoon the frothed eggnog mixture over your espresso.
- Top with whipped cream if desired and finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg.
Tips & Variations
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Control the heat: Eggnog can suffer from separation or curdling if overheated. Keep your stovetop burner on low or medium-low, stirring occasionally.
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Dairy-free option: Look for dairy-free eggnog made with almond, oat, or coconut milk. Pair it with your preferred plant-based milk to keep it vegan-friendly.
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Add a boozy twist: A splash of bourbon, brandy, or spiced rum can heighten those holiday flavors. Stir it into the eggnog mixture before frothing for an extra festive treat.
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Use fresh nutmeg: Grating nutmeg directly over your latte can enhance both aroma and flavor. For best results, do this right before serving.
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Prevent spillage: Warm and froth the milk in at least a 2-cup measuring cup. Once it starts frothing, the volume can easily double.
Nutrition Facts
Calories, fats, and carbohydrates vary depending on the type of eggnog, milk, and added toppings. A grande Starbucks Eggnog Latte can clock in at around 460 calories, with about 46% carbohydrates, 41% fat, and 14% protein, offering close to 29% of your daily recommended protein intake. Your homemade version may differ based on ingredients and portion size. If you’re watching your calorie intake, consider using lower-fat milk or a light version of eggnog.
Final Thoughts
Making your own eggnog latte at home is a wonderful way to capture the warm, spiced magic of the holidays. By customizing the amount of eggnog, frothiness, and even the type of milk, you can craft a drink that’s as rich—or as light—as you like. So enjoy the tradition of eggnog in a fresh new way, and savor every sip of this festive coffee treat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can I make an eggnog latte without an espresso machine?
Absolutely. Strongly brewed coffee works in place of espresso. Simply adjust the coffee strength so it holds up against the rich eggnog flavor. -
Why is my eggnog separating when I heat it?
Eggnog can separate or curdle if it gets too hot. Warm it slowly over low to medium-low heat and consider diluting it with milk. -
Can I froth the eggnog first, then heat it?
It’s best to heat the eggnog and milk together before frothing. Heating after frothing can deflate the foam. -
What if I want it sweeter?
Sprinkle in a little sugar or drizzle maple syrup before frothing. Adjust sweetness to your preference. -
Do I have to use nutmeg?
Nutmeg is the classic flavor for an eggnog latte, but cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, or a dusting of cocoa powder can also add a tasty twist.
Eggnog Latte Recipe
1
servings5
minutes5
minutes460
kcalIngredients
3.75-4 of brewed espresso (or very strong coffee)
2/3 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
1/3 cup milk (2%, whole, or a plant-based alternative)
Whipped cream (optional)
Freshly grated nutmeg (for garnish)
Directions
- Brew your espresso
- Prepare about 3.75–4 oz of espresso using an espresso machine or a stovetop moka pot. Pour it into your favorite mug.
- Warm the eggnog and milk
- In a small saucepan or microwave-safe measuring cup, combine ⅔ cup of eggnog with ⅓ cup of milk.
- Gently heat this mixture until it’s steaming, but not boiling. If you use the microwave, heat on high for 1–1.5 minutes.
- Froth the mixture
- Use a handheld or countertop milk frother to whip the eggnog and milk until it doubles in volume (about 45–60 seconds).
- If you don’t have a frother, pour the warm mixture into a clean mason jar, secure the lid, and shake vigorously until it’s foamy.
- Combine and garnish
- Slowly pour or spoon the frothed eggnog mixture over your espresso.
- Top with whipped cream if desired and finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg.
Notes
- Tip: If you’re short on eggnog, aim for a 2:1 milk-to-eggnog ratio. Pure eggnog can curdle when steamed on its own, so mixing in enough milk helps keep everything smooth.
