If you've ever ordered an eggnog latte at a coffee shop and wished you could make that same warm, creamy, festive flavor at home, this eggnog latte recipe shows you how simple it can be. You are basically taking the comforting sweetness of eggnog, blending it with hot espresso, and creating a holiday drink that feels both familiar and special.
This recipe is friendly for beginners and comforting for experienced home baristas. You do not need a fancy espresso machine to make something delicious. You can warm the eggnog, whisk it, or use a frother you already own. As long as you have strong coffee and eggnog, you are ready.
If you want a recipe that respects your time, works with what you already have, and makes your mornings feel festive, this eggnog latte belongs in your routine. It is perfect for quiet December mornings, weekend brunch, or treating yourself after a long day.Jump to Recipe
The Complete Guide to a Perfect Eggnog Latte
Ingredients Overview
Below is an overview to help you understand how each ingredient works in this recipe. Quantities for all ingredients are provided in the recipe card at the end of this post.
Eggnog
Eggnog brings natural sweetness, body, and warm holiday spice. Store-bought eggnog works perfectly and foams surprisingly well. If you use homemade eggnog, make sure it has been heated to a safe temperature before frothing.
Milk
Milk helps lighten the eggnog enough to froth well. Any type works. Whole milk will give you the richest foam and the most café-style experience.
Espresso
You can use freshly brewed espresso, strong coffee, or even a concentrated pod from a machine like a Nespresso or Keurig. A bold brew gives the latte balance so the eggnog does not overpower the drink.
Nutmeg
A small sprinkle on top adds the flavor and aroma people love in a holiday drink. Freshly grated nutmeg gives you the strongest result, but any nutmeg works.
How to Customize This Eggnog Latte
Sweetness Adjustment
Eggnog is naturally sweet. If you want the drink sweeter, add a small amount of:
- Vanilla syrup
- Brown sugar
- Maple syrup
- Cinnamon syrup
Add a small amount and taste as you go so the latte stays balanced.

Make It a Cocktail
For evening gatherings or holiday celebrations, add a splash of:
- Rum
- Brandy
- Bourbon
These pair perfectly with the warm spices in eggnog.
Create an Iced Eggnog Latte

You can easily turn this into an iced version.
Use cold espresso, frothed cold eggnog, and milk. Pour everything over ice. This version works especially well with lighter eggnogs.
Add Holiday Spices
You can deepen the holiday flavor with a pinch of:
- Cinnamon
- Ginger
- Allspice
- Clove

These blend beautifully with eggnog and espresso.
Tips for a Smooth, Foamy Eggnog Latte
Heat Eggnog Slowly
Warm it gently and stir often. Avoid boiling because boiling can cause thickening or separation.
Froth Before Combining
Frothing the eggnog and milk before adding it to espresso gives you a lighter, airier texture. If you do not have a steamer, you can whisk vigorously in a pan or use a handheld frother.
Brew Espresso Strong
The eggnog is rich and sweet, so a strong espresso shot helps create balance.
Serve Immediately
Eggnog foam settles faster than milk foam. Serve your latte right away for the smoothest texture.
Storing and Reheating
Storage
Eggnog lattes are best fresh, but you can store the mixture before frothing.
Keep it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Shake well before heating.
Reheating
Warm the mixture gently on the stovetop over low heat.
Or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each round.
Avoid boiling so the texture stays smooth.
FAQ
Can I make this without an espresso machine
Yes. You can brew strong coffee, use instant espresso powder, or use a capsule machine.
Can dairy-free eggnog be used
Yes. Many dairy-free eggnogs foam very well, especially almond and oat based versions.
Why is my foam not holding
Eggnog foams differently than milk. A blend of eggnog and milk creates the best, most stable foam.
Can I make a large batch for guests
Yes. Warm and mix the eggnog and milk in a pot. Brew espresso separately. Froth portions individually when serving.
Eggnog Latte Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Description
A cozy, festive coffee drink that blends warm eggnog with espresso for a homemade latte that feels special and comforting-perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup milk
- ⅔ cup eggnog
- 1 shot hot espresso or strong brewed coffee
- Nutmeg for topping
Instructions
- Warm the eggnog and milk together in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring often. Do not allow the mixture to boil.
- Froth the warm eggnog mixture using a steaming wand, handheld frother, or whisk.
- Pour the hot espresso into a mug.
- Slowly pour the steamed eggnog mixture over the espresso, holding back the foam with a spoon.
- Spoon the foam on top and sprinkle with nutmeg. Serve immediately.
Notes
Whole milk creates the richest foam. For a sweeter latte, add vanilla syrup or maple syrup to taste. For an iced latte, use cold espresso and cold frothed eggnog and pour over ice. For an evening version, add a splash of rum, bourbon, or brandy. Store the eggnog mixture for up to two days and reheat gently before frothing.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 latte
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg














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