Eggnog Coffee: A Cozy, Creamy Holiday Pick-Me-Up

Introduction

The holiday season is all about warmth, comfort, and indulgent flavors, and nothing captures that feeling better than a rich, creamy cup of Eggnog Coffee. If you love the classic spiced sweetness of eggnog and the bold, smooth taste of coffee, this drink is the perfect way to combine the best of both worlds into a festive, energizing treat.

I first started making Eggnog Coffee a few years ago when I wanted a holiday-inspired morning drink that wasn’t just plain coffee but also wasn’t as heavy as a full cup of eggnog. I experimented by steaming eggnog with my coffee, adding a touch of nutmeg and cinnamon, and topping it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of holiday spices. The result? A perfectly balanced, creamy, spiced coffee that instantly made every morning feel extra festive.

This Eggnog Coffee is easy to make, customizable, and can be enjoyed with or without alcohol. Whether you’re starting your Christmas morning with a warm pick-me-up, treating yourself to a cozy afternoon drink, or looking for a fun holiday twist on your usual cup of joe, this creamy, spiced coffee is the ultimate seasonal indulgence.


The Perfect Holiday Coffee Drink

This Eggnog Coffee is rich, creamy, and filled with holiday flavors, making it a must-try seasonal drink. Here’s why you’ll love it:

  • Eggnog provides a thick, creamy, and sweet base.
  • Coffee adds bold, deep flavors to balance the richness.
  • Nutmeg and cinnamon enhance the cozy holiday spices.
  • Vanilla extract brings out the smooth, warm flavors.
  • It’s easy to make with brewed coffee, espresso, or even instant coffee.
  • It can be served hot or iced for a festive twist on cold brew.

Whether you’re a coffee lover, an eggnog enthusiast, or someone who just loves holiday flavors, this Eggnog Coffee is a drink you’ll want to enjoy all season long!


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Why Eggnog and Coffee Work So Well Together

Eggnog: The Rich, Creamy Base

Eggnog is thicker and more indulgent than regular milk, giving the coffee a silky, luxurious texture with natural sweetness and warm spice.

Coffee: The Bold, Smooth Energizer

Strong brewed coffee or espresso balances the richness of the eggnog, creating a perfect contrast between deep, roasted flavors and sweet, spiced creaminess.

Cinnamon & Nutmeg: The Classic Holiday Spices

These spices add warmth and depth, making each sip taste like the holidays in a cup.

Vanilla Extract: The Smooth Finishing Touch

A splash of vanilla extract enhances the natural sweetness and complements both the coffee and the eggnog.


How to Make Eggnog Coffee

Ingredients

  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee (or 1-2 shots of espresso)
  • ½ cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
  • ¼ cup milk (optional, for a lighter version)
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
  • Whipped cream & cinnamon for topping (optional)

For a Boozy Version (Optional):

  • 1 oz bourbon, rum, or Irish cream (such as Baileys)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the Eggnog & Milk

  1. In a small saucepan, heat the eggnog and milk over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  2. Do not let it boil—just warm it until steaming.

Step 2: Brew the Coffee

  1. Brew a strong cup of coffee or pull 1-2 shots of espresso.

Step 3: Combine & Flavor

  1. Stir the vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup (if using) into the warm eggnog mixture.
  2. Pour the hot coffee into a mug, then slowly add the warm eggnog mixture, stirring to combine.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve

  1. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
  2. If making a boozy version, stir in bourbon, rum, or Baileys before serving.
  3. Enjoy the rich, creamy, and festive flavors of your Eggnog Coffee!

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this drink without dairy?

Yes! Use dairy-free eggnog (like almond or oat-based eggnog) and a non-dairy milk such as almond, oat, or coconut milk.

2. Can I make this coffee iced?

Absolutely! Simply:

  • Brew strong coffee or espresso and let it cool.
  • Mix chilled eggnog and coffee over ice.
  • Top with whipped cream and cinnamon for a refreshing holiday iced coffee!

3. What’s the best type of coffee to use?

  • For a strong flavor: Use dark roast coffee or espresso.
  • For a smoother taste: Use medium roast coffee.
  • For a quick version: Instant coffee works too!

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix eggnog, milk, and spices ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just heat it before serving with fresh coffee.

5. How can I make this extra indulgent?

  • Drizzle caramel or chocolate syrup on top.
  • Use frothed eggnog instead of regular steamed eggnog for a latte-style drink.
  • Add a pinch of cocoa powder for a slight mocha flavor.

Variations

  • Eggnog Mocha Coffee: Add 1 tbsp cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
  • Spiked Eggnog Coffee: Add rum, bourbon, or Baileys for an adult holiday treat.
  • Pumpkin Eggnog Coffee: Add ½ tsp pumpkin spice for a cozy fall twist.
  • Coconut Eggnog Latte: Use coconut milk and coconut eggnog for a tropical holiday vibe.
  • Eggnog Cold Brew: Mix chilled eggnog with cold brew coffee over ice for a smooth, refreshing version.

When to Serve It

Christmas Morning & Holiday Brunch

A festive, cozy coffee to enjoy with breakfast or pastries.

Afternoon Holiday Pick-Me-Up

A warm, energizing drink for cold winter afternoons.

Evening Wind-Down Drink (With Booze!)

Add a splash of bourbon or Baileys for a comforting after-dinner drink.

Holiday Parties & Gatherings

A fun alternative to regular coffee that guests will love.

Pairing with Holiday Desserts

Pairs perfectly with Christmas cookies, gingerbread, or chocolate cake.


Occasions to Serve It

  • Christmas Eve & Christmas morning
  • Holiday brunches & coffee breaks
  • New Year’s Eve warm-up drink
  • Cozy nights & winter movie marathons
  • Anytime you want a festive, creamy coffee treat!

Conclusion

This Eggnog Coffee is the ultimate holiday pick-me-up, combining rich coffee, creamy eggnog, warm spices, and festive flavors into one comforting drink. Whether you enjoy it hot or iced, spiked or classic, light or extra creamy, this holiday coffee is the perfect way to bring Christmas cheer to every sip!

Try it out, customize it to your taste, and let me know how you like it! Cheers to a creamy, spiced, and joyful holiday season! ☕🎄✨

Julio A. Arco

M.Arch. Julio A. Arco is the founder of The Crafted Drink, a blog that blends design, wellness, and creativity into every sip. As an architect and lifestyle creative, Julio is passionate about turning beverages into moments of beauty and intention—from mocktails and smoothies to barista-worthy coffee and artisanal cocktails.

His work is inspired by leading voices in the drink world, including Liquor.com, Punch, Imbibe Magazine, Difford’s Guide, and The Spruce Eats.

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