Eggnog is one of the most iconic drinks of the holiday season, evoking memories of family gatherings, cozy nights by the fire, and festive celebrations. Traditionally made with milk or cream, eggs, sugar, and often spiked with a splash of alcohol like rum or bourbon, eggnog is known for its rich, creamy texture and comforting sweetness. But for those who are dairy-free or looking for a lighter alternative, almond milk offers an excellent substitution that doesn’t sacrifice taste or texture. Enter Rich Almond Milk Eggnog—a modern twist on a classic drink that’s just as indulgent but friendlier for those avoiding dairy.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups unsweetened almond milk (homemade or store-bought)
- 4 large egg yolks
- ½ cup granulated sugar (or maple syrup for a natural sweetener)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg (plus more for garnish)
- ½ cup canned coconut milk (for added richness)
- ¼ cup rum or bourbon (optional for an adult version)
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional for garnish)
- Whipped coconut cream (optional for topping)
Instructions:
- Whisk egg yolks and sugar:
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture becomes light, thick, and creamy (about 2-3 minutes). Set aside. - Heat almond milk:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add almond milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir occasionally and let it warm up but do not let it boil. - Temper the egg mixture:
Slowly pour about 1 cup of the warm almond milk into the egg yolk mixture while constantly whisking. This will gently raise the temperature of the eggs without cooking them. Then, gradually pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining almond milk. - Cook the eggnog base:
Continue to cook the eggnog over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly and reaches a temperature of about 160°F (71°C), about 5-7 minutes. The mixture should coat the back of a spoon. Do not let it boil, as this can cause curdling. - Add coconut milk and vanilla:
Once the eggnog has thickened, stir in the coconut milk and vanilla extract. If you’re adding alcohol (rum or bourbon), stir it in now as well. - Chill:
Remove from heat and let the eggnog cool. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until well chilled. - Serve:
Pour the eggnog into glasses, garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg and cinnamon stick, and top with whipped coconut cream if desired.
A Delicious Dairy-Free Alternative
Eggnog is traditionally a very rich beverage, often made with whole milk or heavy cream, making it off-limits for individuals who are lactose intolerant or vegan. Almond milk, a dairy-free milk substitute made from ground almonds and water, is an excellent option for replacing the dairy in eggnog. It is light but still creamy, offering a subtly nutty flavor that complements the spices typically found in eggnog, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.
Almond milk not only mimics the creaminess of dairy but also introduces a different depth of flavor. Its nutty undertones add another dimension to the eggnog, making this version a unique treat that still maintains the nostalgic feel of the traditional beverage. Those who have tried almond milk eggnog often find it to be lighter and less overpowering than its dairy counterpart, which can make it more enjoyable for sipping throughout an entire evening.
Why Coconut Milk Enhances the Recipe
While almond milk alone provides a creamy texture, adding a small amount of canned coconut milk takes this eggnog recipe to the next level. Coconut milk, with its naturally rich and velvety texture, brings the luxurious creaminess that many expect from eggnog. However, because coconut milk can have a strong flavor, it is used sparingly in this recipe to enhance rather than dominate. This balance results in a decadent texture without overwhelming the other flavors.
Coconut milk is a versatile ingredient, and when paired with almond milk, it works wonders in creating a dairy-free eggnog that feels every bit as indulgent as traditional versions. Moreover, the fat content in coconut milk mimics the richness that comes from using heavy cream, giving the eggnog that signature thick and satisfying mouthfeel.
The Magic of Tempering Eggs
At the heart of any classic eggnog recipe is the use of egg yolks, which are responsible for the thick, custard-like consistency that we associate with eggnog. The process of tempering eggs—slowly whisking in a hot liquid to gradually raise their temperature without curdling them—is key to achieving that creamy texture without ending up with scrambled eggs in your drink.
In this recipe, the egg yolks are mixed with sugar to form a smooth, creamy base before the warm almond milk is gently whisked in. This careful process results in an eggnog base that is thick and silky. The addition of coconut milk and vanilla extract after the eggnog base has thickened adds both richness and a hint of tropical flavor, elevating the beverage while keeping it dairy-free.
A Healthier Take on Eggnog
For many, eggnog can be a guilty pleasure due to its high fat and sugar content. The traditional recipe, which often includes heavy cream and large amounts of sugar, can feel overly indulgent and too rich to enjoy in more than small quantities. By substituting almond milk and using coconut milk as a secondary thickener, this almond milk eggnog recipe offers a lighter alternative that still satisfies your craving for something creamy and luxurious.
Moreover, almond milk is naturally lower in calories and fat compared to whole milk or heavy cream. It also contains beneficial nutrients such as vitamin E, an antioxidant that supports skin health, and calcium for strong bones. For those who choose to sweeten their eggnog with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of refined sugar, this recipe can be made even healthier without sacrificing flavor.
By using eggs, this recipe still retains the nutritional benefits that eggs provide, including high-quality protein and essential vitamins such as B12. However, for a fully vegan option, one could substitute the eggs with a plant-based thickener like cornstarch, though this would change the texture somewhat.
Adding Spices: The Flavors of the Season
Spices are an essential part of eggnog’s signature taste. Cinnamon and nutmeg, two warming spices often associated with the holiday season, add a layer of complexity to the drink. Nutmeg, in particular, with its slightly sweet and nutty flavor, pairs beautifully with the almond and coconut milk, while cinnamon adds a hint of warmth that enhances the overall taste experience.
Incorporating these spices does more than just provide flavor—they help to evoke the spirit of the holidays. The smell of cinnamon and nutmeg can instantly transport you to festive moments, making the drink feel all the more special. Some variations of this recipe also include a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for added depth, though these are optional and can be adjusted according to taste.
To Spike or Not to Spike?
One of the most popular variations of eggnog involves adding alcohol, typically rum, bourbon, or brandy. For those who enjoy a boozy version of this festive drink, a splash of dark rum or bourbon can give the almond milk eggnog an extra kick. These liquors add complexity to the flavors and balance out the sweetness of the eggnog. The rich, molasses-like notes of dark rum or the smoky warmth of bourbon pair beautifully with the nuttiness of the almond milk and the sweetness of the coconut milk.
If you’re hosting a holiday party, you could offer both spiked and non-spiked versions of the eggnog to cater to different preferences. The non-alcoholic version, served simply with a sprinkle of nutmeg and a cinnamon stick, is still an incredibly satisfying treat for guests of all ages.
Serving and Garnishing Ideas
Presentation plays an important role in making eggnog feel special. Serving your almond milk eggnog in glass mugs or festive cups adds a touch of elegance. For a finishing touch, a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg or ground cinnamon over the top not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor. A cinnamon stick or a star anise can be added as a garnish, giving the drink a more polished look while subtly infusing additional flavor.
For an even more decadent experience, you can top the eggnog with a dollop of whipped coconut cream, which adds another layer of richness. The contrast between the cool, fluffy whipped cream and the smooth, spiced eggnog is sure to impress.
Conclusion
This Rich Almond Milk Eggnog is a wonderful alternative to traditional eggnog for those looking to enjoy a creamy, festive drink without dairy. The combination of almond milk and coconut milk creates a rich and velvety base, while spices like cinnamon and nutmeg provide that signature holiday warmth. With the option to spike it with a bit of rum or bourbon, this eggnog is versatile enough to be enjoyed by everyone at your holiday gatherings.
Whether you’re serving it at a festive party or sipping it by the fire, almond milk eggnog is a lighter, dairy-free option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or indulgence. It’s the perfect holiday beverage to delight your guests and make your celebrations even more memorable!