10-Minute Creamy Eggnog Latte Recipe You’ll Crave Forever

Published: June 20, 2025

There’s something magical about wrapping your hands around a warm mug on a chilly December morning, especially when it’s filled with this creamy eggnog latte. I first fell in love with this holiday treat during a chaotic Christmas Eve – I was exhausted from last-minute wrapping, and my neighbor surprised me with this spiced beverage. One sip transported me to holiday bliss. Now, making eggnog lattes has become my favorite little Christmas morning ritual. The rich eggnog blends perfectly with bold espresso, creating a drink that’s both comforting and festive. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s become my must-have holiday coffee moment.

Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Latte Recipe

This eggnog latte is like a cozy holiday hug in a mug—here’s why it’s my go-to every December:

Quick magic: Ready in 10 minutes flat (even with sleepy morning hands!).
Creamy dreaminess: The eggnog-milk combo is so velvety, you’ll swear it’s from a fancy café.
Festive vibes: That nutmeg sprinkle? Instant holiday cheer.
Your rules: Ditch the sugar, add extra espresso, or spike it—it’s your latte adventure.

Seriously, one sip and you’ll be plotting your next batch before the mug’s empty.

Eggnog Latte Recipe - detail 1

Ingredients for the Perfect Eggnog Latte

Gathering these simple ingredients is like collecting little holiday treasures – each one plays a special role in creating that perfect sip. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup whole milk (trust me, the extra fat makes it luxuriously creamy)
1/2 cup eggnog (store-bought works great, but homemade? Even better!)
1 shot espresso (30ml) or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee if you don’t have an espresso machine
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (freshly grated if you’re feeling fancy)
1 tbsp sugar (optional, but I always add just a touch)
Whipped cream (because why not make it extra festive?)

See? Nothing too crazy – just simple ingredients that come together in the most magical way. Now let’s make some holiday magic!

How to Make an Eggnog Latte

Okay, let’s get to the fun part – turning those simple ingredients into holiday magic! I’ve made this so many times I could do it in my sleep (and honestly, some December mornings I practically do). Here’s my foolproof method:

Step 1: Warm the Milk and Eggnog

Grab your favorite saucepan – I use my little red one that’s just the right size. Combine the milk and eggnog over medium heat, stirring every 30 seconds or so with a wooden spoon. You’ll know it’s ready when tiny bubbles form around the edges, but don’t let it boil – that changes the texture. Takes about 3-4 minutes. Pro tip: If you’ve got a thermometer, aim for 150°F (65°C). No thermometer? Dip a clean finger in – it should feel hot but not scalding.

Step 2: Brew the Espresso

While your milk mixture warms, make your espresso shot. No machine? No problem! Strong brewed coffee works beautifully – just use half a cup. I like to use my French press with an extra tablespoon of grounds for that rich flavor. The key is timing – you want both elements ready at the same moment like a holiday duet.

Step 3: Combine and Garnish

Here comes the magic! Pour your warm milk mixture into your favorite holiday mug first (mine has reindeer on it), then slowly add the espresso. Stir gently in a circular motion – this helps the flavors marry without making bubbles. Now the fun part: top with a cloud of whipped cream if you’re feeling fancy (I always am), and that essential dusting of nutmeg. The first sip? Pure December joy.

Tips for the Best Eggnog Latte

After making countless batches of this holiday favorite, I’ve picked up some tricks that take it from good to “oh wow!” levels:

Sweetness control: Taste your eggnog first – some brands are sweeter than others! I often skip the extra sugar entirely.
Texture magic: For café-style froth, whisk the warm milk mixture vigorously or use a handheld frother.
Nutmeg matters: Freshly grated nutmeg makes all the difference – it’s brighter and more aromatic than pre-ground.

One last tip? Make two – you’ll definitely want seconds!

Eggnog Latte Variations

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily you can make it your own! Here are some delicious twists I’ve tried over the years:

Dairy-free delight: Swap in almond or oat milk with vegan eggnog – just as creamy!
Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cloves with the nutmeg for extra warmth.
Adult version: A splash of rum or bourbon turns it into a proper holiday cocktail.
Chocolate twist: Stir in a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a mocha eggnog latte.

The possibilities are endless – that’s the beauty of holiday traditions!

Serving and Storing Your Eggnog Latte

This eggnog latte tastes best fresh – the warm, creamy texture is pure perfection right after making it. I always serve mine immediately in my favorite holiday mug. Sadly, it doesn’t store well (the eggs in the nog make it separate when cooled), but that just means you get to enjoy every last sip while it’s at its best!

Eggnog Latte Recipe Nutritional Information

Here’s the scoop on what’s in your festive mug (based on whole milk and standard eggnog): about 250 calories per serving with 8g protein. Remember – these are estimates! Your exact numbers will dance a bit depending on your specific ingredients and brands. That’s the beauty (and delicious mystery) of homemade!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I make this eggnog latte without espresso?
Absolutely! While espresso gives that rich coffee punch, strong brewed coffee works beautifully too. Just use 1/2 cup of your favorite dark roast – I often use my French press when I’m too lazy to pull espresso shots. The key is making it strong enough to stand up to the sweet eggnog.

Q2. Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
You bet! My dairy-free friends love this with almond milk and vegan eggnog (look for the coconut milk-based ones). The texture stays wonderfully creamy, and you still get all that festive flavor. Just skip the whipped cream or use coconut whip instead.

Q3. How can I adjust the sweetness?
Taste your eggnog first – some brands are plenty sweet on their own! I often make mine without extra sugar. If you prefer it sweeter, add sugar gradually (a teaspoon at a time) until it’s just right for you. Maple syrup or vanilla syrup make delicious alternatives too!

Share Your Eggnog Latte Experience

Did this recipe become your new holiday tradition? I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment sharing your favorite tweaks or cozy moments with this latte – your ideas might inspire someone else’s perfect December morning.