There’s nothing better than a warm eggnog latte on a cold holiday morning.
It’s rich, creamy, perfectly spiced, and tastes just like something you’d order from your favorite coffee shop.
The mix of smooth espresso, sweet eggnog, and cozy cinnamon and nutmeg makes every sip feel festive and comforting.
The best part? You can make this café-style drink at home in just a few minutes. It’s more affordable than buying one out, easy to customize, and beginner-friendly, too.
What Is an Eggnog Latte?
An eggnog latte is a cozy holiday coffee drink made with espresso, steamed milk, and creamy eggnog blended together into one rich and comforting cup.
The espresso adds a deep coffee flavor that balances the sweetness of the eggnog, while the warm milk makes the drink smooth, frothy, and extra comforting.
Traditional eggnog is usually made with milk, cream, sugar, and warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, so when it’s added to coffee, it creates a festive flavor that tastes creamy, slightly sweet, and perfectly spiced without needing much extra effort.
It’s similar to the seasonal lattes you’ll find at coffee shops during the holidays, but homemade versions often taste fresher and more balanced because you can control the sweetness, spice level, and coffee strength yourself.
If you enjoy drinks like pumpkin spice lattes, peppermint mochas, or vanilla lattes, there’s a good chance you’ll love an eggnog latte too.
It has that same café-style feel, but with a richer texture and a classic holiday flavor that instantly makes cold mornings feel warmer and more special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make in minutes — This latte comes together quickly with simple ingredients and minimal prep, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Perfect for holiday mornings and gatherings — Its cozy flavor and festive feel make it a great drink to serve during Christmas breakfasts, brunches, or quiet winter evenings.
- Rich, creamy, and warmly spiced — The combination of smooth eggnog, bold coffee, and warm spices creates a comforting café-style drink that feels extra special.
- Cheaper than coffee shop versions — Making your own eggnog latte at home saves money while still giving you that creamy seasonal coffee shop experience.
- Easy to customize — You can adjust the sweetness, coffee strength, spices, toppings, or milk to make the latte exactly how you like it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup eggnog — Gives the latte its rich, creamy texture and classic holiday flavor.
- 1/2 cup milk — Helps balance the sweetness and creates a smooth, frothy latte. Whole milk works best, but any milk can be used.
- 1–2 shots of espresso (about 2 ounces) — Adds bold coffee flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet eggnog. You can also use 1/2 cup of strong-brewed coffee.
- 1–2 teaspoons sugar or sweetener (optional) — Add only if you prefer a sweeter latte, since eggnog is already sweet.
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream — Adds a creamy café-style finish.
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg — Brings warm holiday spice and classic eggnog flavor.
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon — Adds extra warmth and sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon caramel drizzle — Optional, but delicious for a sweeter holiday-style latte.
Best Coffee for an Eggnog Latte
Espresso
Espresso is the best choice if you want a rich, bold eggnog latte that tastes as if it came straight from a coffee shop.
Its strong flavor balances the sweetness and creaminess of the eggnog without getting lost in the drink.
Even one shot can add a deep coffee flavor, while two shots create a stronger and more intense latte for serious coffee lovers.
If you have an espresso machine, this option gives the smoothest and most classic café-style result.
Don’t worry if you’re new to making espresso at home, though. It doesn’t need to be perfect to taste delicious in this recipe.
Strong Brewed Coffee
If you don’t own an espresso machine, strong brewed coffee works wonderfully too.
A darker, stronger brew helps give the latte enough coffee flavor to stand up to the rich eggnog mixture.
French press coffee, moka pot coffee, or even extra-strong drip coffee are all great choices.
This option is simple, beginner-friendly, and still creates a cozy homemade latte with plenty of flavor.
It may taste slightly lighter than a traditional espresso latte, but it’s still warm, creamy, and incredibly comforting.
Blonde vs Dark Roast
Both blonde and dark roast coffee can work in an eggnog latte, but they create slightly different flavors.
Blonde roast coffee is smoother, lighter, and a little sweeter, which pairs nicely if you prefer a softer coffee taste.
Dark roast coffee has a deeper, bolder flavor with richer notes that balance the sweetness of the eggnog really well.
If you want a stronger café-style drink, dark roast is usually the better choice.
If you prefer something smoother and less intense, blonde roast is a great option.
Either way, choose a coffee you already enjoy drinking because that flavor will shine through in the final latte.
How to Make an Eggnog Latte
Step 1: Heat the Eggnog and Milk
Pour the eggnog and milk into a small saucepan and place it over medium-low heat.
Warm the mixture slowly while stirring often so it heats evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
You want it hot and steamy, but not boiling.
If eggnog gets too hot, it can develop a slightly grainy texture and lose some of its smooth creaminess.
This usually takes just a few minutes, so keep an eye on it.
If you prefer, you can also warm the mixture in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between each one.
Step 2: Froth the Mixture
Once the eggnog mixture is warm, it’s time to create that cozy latte foam.
A handheld milk frother is the easiest option and gives the drink a light café-style texture in seconds.
If you don’t have one, don’t worry.
A whisk works well too, especially if you whisk quickly for about 30 seconds.
You can even pour the warm mixture into a blender and blend carefully for a few seconds until foamy.
The goal is simply to add a little air and create a creamy, smooth texture that makes the latte feel extra comforting.
Step 3: Brew the Espresso
Prepare 1 to 2 shots of espresso while the milk mixture heats.
Fresh espresso gives the best flavor because it’s bold enough to balance the sweetness of the eggnog.
If you don’t have an espresso machine, strong-brewed coffee works perfectly fine.
Try to make the coffee slightly stronger than usual so the flavor still stands out after the creamy eggnog mixture is added.
This keeps the latte tasting balanced instead of overly sweet.
Step 4: Assemble the Latte
Pour the hot espresso or strong coffee into your favorite mug first.
Slowly add the warm eggnog mixture over the coffee, holding back some of the foam with a spoon if needed.
Once the mug is mostly full, spoon the extra foam over the top.
Watching the creamy mixture swirl into the dark coffee is one of the best parts, and it instantly makes the drink feel cozy and homemade.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Finish your eggnog latte with a generous swirl of whipped cream if you’d like an extra café-style touch.
Sprinkle a little ground nutmeg or cinnamon on top for warm holiday flavor and aroma.
A drizzle of caramel sauce can also make the drink taste even more festive and dessert-like.
These small finishing touches only take a few seconds, but they make the latte feel special and perfect for slow winter mornings or holiday gatherings.
Tips for the Best Eggnog Latte
Don’t Overheat the Eggnog
One of the easiest ways to keep your eggnog latte smooth and creamy is to heat the eggnog gently.
High heat can cause the mixture to thicken too much or develop a slightly grainy texture, especially if the eggnog contains eggs and cream.
Medium-low heat works best and gives you more control.
The mixture should feel hot and steamy, but it should never reach a full boil.
Stirring often also helps everything warm evenly and keeps the texture silky.
Use Freshly Grated Nutmeg for Better Flavor
Freshly grated nutmeg makes a surprisingly big difference in flavor.
It has a warmer, sweeter, and more fragrant taste compared to pre-ground nutmeg, which can sometimes taste dull after sitting in the pantry for a long time.
You only need a small amount to give the latte that classic holiday flavor.
If you have whole nutmeg at home, simply grate a little over the top right before serving.
The fresh aroma instantly makes the drink feel more cozy and homemade.
Adjust Sweetness Carefully
Eggnog is already fairly sweet on its own, so it’s best to taste the latte before adding extra sugar or sweetener.
Some store-bought eggnog brands are sweeter than others, and the coffee strength can also change the balance of the drink.
Starting with little or no added sugar gives you more control and helps prevent the latte from becoming overly rich.
If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can always stir in a little maple syrup, sugar, or flavored syrup at the end.
Use Whole Milk for Extra Creaminess
Whole milk gives the latte a thicker and creamier texture that feels closer to a coffee shop version.
It froths well and blends smoothly with the eggnog without making the drink feel watery.
If you prefer a lighter option, lower-fat milk still works, but the latte may not taste quite as rich.
Oat milk is also a great dairy-free choice because it stays creamy and pairs nicely with the warm spices in the eggnog.
No matter which milk you use, a creamy texture helps make the latte feel comforting and extra special.
Easy Variations
Iced Eggnog Latte
If you prefer cold coffee drinks, an iced eggnog latte is a delicious option that still keeps all the cozy holiday flavor.
Simply let the espresso and eggnog mixture cool slightly, then pour everything over a glass filled with ice.
Cold foam or whipped cream on top makes it feel even more like a coffee shop treat.
Since ice naturally waters down drinks a little, using strong espresso or strongly brewed coffee helps keep the flavor rich and balanced.
This version is especially great for warmer winter days or whenever you want something festive without a hot drink.
Dairy-Free Eggnog Latte
Making a dairy-free eggnog latte is easier than ever thanks to the many plant-based eggnog options available in stores.
Almond, oat, coconut, and soy-based eggnog can all work well, depending on the flavor you like most.
Oat milk is especially popular because it stays creamy and froths nicely, giving the latte a smooth texture similar to traditional milk.
The warm spices and coffee flavors still shine through beautifully, so you don’t miss out on that classic holiday taste.
This variation is perfect for anyone avoiding dairy but still wanting a rich and comforting seasonal drink.
Boozy Eggnog Latte
For a cozy adults-only version, add a small splash of rum, bourbon, or flavored liqueur to the finished latte.
The warm caramel and vanilla notes in these drinks pair naturally with the creamy eggnog and espresso.
A little goes a long way, so start with about 1 tablespoon and adjust to taste.
This variation feels especially festive during holiday parties, quiet evenings by the fireplace, or after-dinner gatherings with friends and family.
Just make sure the coffee is hot before adding the alcohol so the drink stays warm and comforting.
Vanilla Eggnog Latte
Adding vanilla gives the latte an even softer and sweeter flavor that blends perfectly with the holiday spices.
A teaspoon of vanilla syrup or a small splash of pure vanilla extract is usually enough to make a noticeable difference.
The vanilla helps round out the bold coffee flavor and makes the drink taste even more dessert-like without much extra effort.
If you enjoy vanilla lattes from coffee shops, this simple variation is an easy way to make your homemade eggnog latte feel extra cozy and indulgent.
What to Serve With an Eggnog Latte
- Gingerbread cookies — Their warm spices pair perfectly with the creamy holiday flavors in the latte.
- Cinnamon rolls — Soft, sweet cinnamon rolls make the drink feel even more cozy and comforting.
- Biscotti — Crunchy biscotti are perfect for dipping into the warm latte without becoming too soft too quickly.
- Holiday breakfast pastries — Croissants, danishes, or festive muffins turn the latte into an easy café-style holiday breakfast.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerating Leftovers
If you have leftover eggnog latte, let it cool slightly before storing it in the refrigerator.
Pour it into an airtight container or sealed jar to help keep the flavor fresh and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.
It’s best enjoyed within 2 days for the creamiest texture and best taste.
Before serving again, give the latte a quick stir or shake because the milk and eggnog can naturally separate a little as they sit.
If your latte already has whipped cream or toppings added, it’s usually best to add fresh toppings after reheating instead of storing them together.
Reheating
When reheating an eggnog latte, gentle heat is the key to keeping it smooth and creamy.
The stovetop works especially well because you can warm the latte slowly over low heat while stirring often.
This helps prevent the eggnog from overheating or becoming grainy.
If you prefer using the microwave, heat the latte in short 20 to 30-second bursts and stir between each one until warm.
Avoid boiling the latte during reheating since high heat can change the texture and make the drink taste less smooth.
Once warmed, you can froth it again for a few seconds if you want to bring back that cozy coffee shop feel.
Final Thoughts
This homemade eggnog latte is an easy way to bring cozy holiday coffee shop flavors into your own kitchen.
It’s creamy, warmly spiced, and simple to customize with your favorite coffee, milk, or toppings.
Grab your favorite mug, add a sprinkle of nutmeg on top, and enjoy every cozy sip.
FAQs
Can I Make an Eggnog Latte Without Espresso?
Yes, strong-brewed coffee works well if you don’t have an espresso machine.
Is Eggnog Latte Very Sweet?
Usually yes, but you can easily adjust the sweetness by using less eggnog or skipping extra sugar.
Can I Use Store-Bought Eggnog?
Yes, most homemade eggnog latte recipes use store-bought eggnog for convenience.
What Spices Go Best With Eggnog Latte?
Nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves pair perfectly with the creamy holiday flavors.
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the warm eggnog and milk mixture ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
The Best Homemade Eggnog Latte (Better Than Starbucks)
Course: Seasonal u0026 Holiday DrinksDifficulty: Easy1
latte5
minutes5
minutes10
minutesThis homemade eggnog latte is rich, creamy, warmly spiced, and perfect for cozy holiday mornings. It’s an easy café-style drink made with espresso, eggnog, and frothy milk.
Ingredients
1 cup eggnog
1/2 cup milk
1–2 shots of espresso or 1/2 cup of strong brewed coffee
1 teaspoon sugar or sweetener (optional)
Whipped cream (optional)
Ground nutmeg or cinnamon for topping
Directions
- Heat the eggnog and milk in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until hot but not boiling.
- Froth the mixture using a milk frother, whisk, or blender.
- Brew the espresso or strong coffee and pour it into a mug.
- Add the warm eggnog mixture over the coffee.
- Top with whipped cream, nutmeg, or cinnamon if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- Strong-brewed coffee works well if you don’t have espresso.
- Avoid boiling the eggnog to keep the texture smooth and creamy.
- Adjust the sweetness depending on how sweet your eggnog already is.
Hi, I’m Selene Veyra! I’m the coffee-loving creator of Brewed Moments. My passion for coffee began in my grandmother’s kitchen, where her morning brew sparked a lifelong love for the beverage. Now I test brewing methods, gear, and homemade café-style recipes to make great coffee simple for everyone ☕
