Indulge in the Perfect Holiday Eggnog Milkshake

As the festive season descends, often bringing with it a blanket of snow and a crisp chill in the air, there’s nothing quite like a comforting, yet wonderfully refreshing, Eggnog Milkshake to brighten your spirits. While I find myself dreaming of warmer climes and sun-drenched beaches this time of year, my kitchen often becomes a hub for creating delightful holiday treats that bring joy, regardless of the weather outside. And what better way to embrace the festive spirit than with a classic eggnog concoction?

This particular recipe for an Easy Eggnog Shake has quickly become a household favorite. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, yet it delivers maximum flavor. What’s more, it’s remarkably versatile. You can whip up a batch of non-alcoholic shakes for the kids and designated drivers, or easily transform them into sophisticated adult beverages by adding a splash of your favorite festive spirit. The choice is entirely yours, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy a taste of holiday cheer.

My recent acquisition of a rather generous supply of eggnog (thanks, Costco, for those extra-large containers!) led to a delicious challenge: to innovate as many eggnog recipes as possible before the holiday season ends. This shake is just one of many delightful creations, and I’m excited to share all my discoveries with you. Forget the limited-time offers from fast-food chains like McDonald’s; with this recipe, you can enjoy a creamy, homemade Eggnog Milkshake whenever the craving strikes!

Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Eggnog Shake

Creating an epic Eggnog Shake doesn’t require a long list of exotic items. In fact, its beauty lies in its simplicity! Here’s a detailed look at the core ingredients and some fantastic options for customization. You’ll find precise measurements and step-by-step instructions in the comprehensive recipe card located at the bottom of this article.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The foundation of any great milkshake. Choose a high-quality French vanilla or classic vanilla ice cream for the richest flavor and creamiest texture.
• Eggnog: The star of the show! Whether you prefer the convenience of rich, store-bought eggnog or the authentic, homemade taste, either will work wonderfully to infuse that distinct holiday flavor.
• Nutmeg: A sprinkle of freshly ground nutmeg elevates the flavor profile, adding that iconic warm, spicy note characteristic of traditional eggnog. Don’t skip this for authentic taste!
• Whipped Cream: For a truly decadent finish, a dollop of fluffy whipped cream is the perfect crowning glory.

Ingredient Spotlight & Customization Tips:

• French Vanilla Ice Cream: While any good vanilla ice cream will do, French vanilla offers an extra layer of richness due to its egg yolk content, complementing the eggnog beautifully. Feel free to experiment with other flavors if you’re feeling adventurous! A scoop of chocolate ice cream can create a delightful chocolate eggnog milkshake, or for an exceptionally smooth and luxurious texture, consider using vanilla gelato.
• Eggnog: The quality of your eggnog will significantly impact the final taste. Store-bought options are convenient and readily available during the holidays. However, if you have a cherished homemade eggnog recipe, this shake is a fantastic way to showcase its unique flavors.
• Whipped Cream: You can opt for store-bought aerosol whipped cream for ease, or take your shake to the next level with freshly made whipped cream. For an ultimate eggnog experience, try our homemade Eggnog Whipped Cream – it’s a game-changer!
• Optional Garnishes: Don’t underestimate the power of a good garnish! Beyond a simple dusting of ground nutmeg, consider a vibrant maraschino cherry, an elegant cinnamon stick, crushed gingersnap cookies for a textural crunch, an extra sprinkle of cinnamon, or a luscious chocolate drizzle. These additions not only make your shake look Instagram-worthy but also add layers of flavor and aroma.

Essential Equipment for Your Eggnog Milkshake

Making a superb eggnog shake is surprisingly straightforward, especially when you have the right tools at hand. Here’s what you’ll need to blend your way to holiday bliss:

• Blender: A robust blender is key for achieving that perfectly smooth, creamy consistency without any lumps. We personally love and recommend a Ninja Blender for its power and efficiency, but any good quality blender will do the trick.
• Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements ensure your shake has the ideal balance of flavors and consistency.
• Cute Milkshake Glasses: Serving your festive creation in chilled, attractive glasses enhances the entire experience. Simply pop your glasses into the freezer for a few minutes before blending to keep your shake colder for longer. We particularly like these charming milkshake glasses for a touch of classic flair.
• Spatula (optional): A flexible spatula can be helpful for scraping down the sides of the blender and ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated for a uniform texture.

How to Make the Ultimate Eggnog Milkshake (Step-by-Step Guide)

Creating this delicious holiday treat couldn’t be easier! Below is a quick overview of the process. For detailed instructions and precise measurements, please refer to the printable recipe card at the very end of this post.

1. Combine Ingredients: Add the specified amounts of eggnog, vanilla ice cream, and ground nutmeg into your blender. Ensure your ice cream is slightly softened for easier blending, but not melted, to achieve the best consistency.
2. Blend to Perfection: Secure the lid and blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Start on a low setting and gradually increase speed if necessary. If the shake is too thick, add a tiny splash more eggnog. If it’s too thin, a small scoop of extra ice cream will thicken it right up. Blend just until smooth to prevent it from becoming too airy.
3. Pour and Serve: Carefully pour the freshly blended eggnog shake into your pre-chilled milkshake glasses. This keeps your shake colder for longer, enhancing the enjoyment.
4. Garnish with Flair: Top your shake generously with whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh ground nutmeg. Feel free to get creative with other garnishes like a cherry, cinnamon stick, or chocolate drizzle for an extra special touch. Serve immediately and savor every festive sip!

The beauty of this shake is its adaptability. You can keep it elegantly simple with just a dash of ground nutmeg, or go all out with a cloud of whipped cream, more nutmeg, and perhaps a festive cherry. The presentation truly enhances the holiday experience and makes it even more special!

Crafting an Alcoholic Eggnog Shake for Adults

For adults looking to add a little extra cheer to their holiday shake, transforming this recipe into a boozy delight is incredibly simple. Just blend in 1 to 2 ounces of your favorite liquor with the other ingredients. The choice of spirit can significantly alter the flavor profile, allowing for endless customization and catering to different tastes:

• Bourbon: Adds a warm, oaky, and slightly sweet note that pairs wonderfully with the traditional flavors of eggnog.
• RumChata: A creamy, cinnamon-infused rum liqueur that intensifies the holiday spice and richness, making it an excellent choice for a festive drink.
• Amaretto: Brings a sweet almond flavor, offering a delightful and sophisticated twist to the classic eggnog profile.
• Dark Rum: Contributes deep, molasses-like sweetness and warmth, a traditional and time-honored pairing with eggnog.
• Whiskey: Offers a robust and complex flavor, perfect for those who enjoy a stronger kick and a more pronounced spirit presence.
• Brandy: A classic choice for eggnog, providing a fruity, slightly sweet, and warming essence that feels wonderfully traditional.

Start with a smaller amount and add more to taste, ensuring your boozy shake is perfectly balanced to your liking. Remember to drink responsibly and always identify which shakes are alcoholic if serving both versions!

Preparation and Storage Tips for Your Milkshake

While milkshakes are undeniably best enjoyed fresh, there are clever ways to prepare them ahead of time, especially if you’re hosting a party or simply want a quick indulgence later. The secret often lies in your freezer!

• Make Ahead: You can blend the shake mixture a few hours in advance. Pour it into an airtight container or a freezer-safe glass and store it in the freezer. This allows it to firm up.
• Storage & Re-serving: When ready to serve, the shake will be quite firm, similar to soft-serve ice cream. Simply let it sit on the counter for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly, then give it a good stir with a spoon or a quick re-blend for a few seconds to restore its creamy, drinkable texture. This method is fantastic for entertaining, allowing you to enjoy your guests without last-minute blending stress.
• Freezing for Longer Term: For longer storage, a blended milkshake can be frozen for up to a few weeks. However, note that the texture might become icier upon thawing. A quick re-blend with a splash of fresh eggnog or milk can help revive its smoothness and creaminess. Avoid re-freezing once thawed and re-blended.

Recipe Variations & Dietary Considerations

This eggnog shake recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to various preferences and dietary needs. Here are some popular variations and considerations to make this recipe perfect for everyone:

Substitutions for a Personalized Touch:

• Eggnog Choices: Feel free to use either your favorite store-bought eggnog for ultimate convenience or a rich, homemade version for an extra special touch. Both options promise a delicious outcome.
• Whipped Cream Options: For the topping, store-bought whipped cream is perfectly fine for a quick garnish. However, if you’re aiming for peak indulgence, consider making your own fresh whipped cream, or even better, our festive Eggnog Whipped Cream for an intensified flavor experience that truly complements the shake.
• Ice Cream Alternatives: Beyond classic vanilla or French vanilla, get creative with your ice cream choice! Chocolate ice cream will transform this into a decadent chocolate eggnog milkshake, adding a rich cocoa depth. For an incredibly smooth and luxurious shake, try using vanilla gelato, which offers a denser, creamier texture. The possibilities are endless!

Addressing Dietary Needs:

• Vegetarian Option: Good news! This delightful holiday treat is inherently vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for most diets without any modifications required.
• Vegan Option: To create a delicious vegan Eggnog Shake, simply replace traditional eggnog with a plant-based eggnog alternative (often made with almond, soy, or oat milk) and substitute vanilla ice cream with your favorite dairy-free vanilla ice cream or frozen dessert. Ensure all your chosen ingredients are certified vegan.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it relies on dairy-based ingredients, which typically do not contain gluten. For those with high sensitivities or celiac disease, always double-check the labels of your specific eggnog and ice cream brands to ensure they are certified gluten-free and to avoid any cross-contamination risks during manufacturing.
• Sugar-Free: The original recipe contains approximately 56 grams of sugar per serving, with the total nutritional content varying based on your chosen ingredients. To make a sugar-free version, select sugar-free eggnog and sugar-free vanilla ice cream or frozen desserts. You can also opt for sugar-free whipped cream for garnishing to keep the sugar content low.

Adjusting Serving Sizes:

• Smaller Serving Size: The recipe as written makes two generous servings. If you only need a single Eggnog Shake, simply halve all the ingredient quantities.
• Larger Group/More Servings: This recipe scales up beautifully for larger gatherings or holiday parties. You can easily double or triple the ingredients to accommodate more guests. For convenience, the recipe card below often includes a slider to help you adjust serving sizes automatically, making party prep a breeze.

Tips for Achieving the Best Eggnog Milkshake Ever

• Chilled Glasses are Key: Always place your serving glasses in the freezer for at least 10-15 minutes before blending your shake. This crucial step keeps your milkshake colder and thicker for a longer, more enjoyable drinking experience.
• Perfect Ice Cream Consistency: For the smoothest blend, let your ice cream soften on the counter for a few minutes before adding it to the blender. It shouldn’t be melted, just slightly pliable, making it easier for the blender to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
• Fresh Nutmeg for Superior Flavor: While pre-ground nutmeg works, freshly grated nutmeg offers a far more aromatic and vibrant flavor that truly elevates the shake. A microplane grater makes this an easy task and is highly recommended.
• Customize Sweetness: Taste your shake before serving. If you prefer it sweeter, you can add a touch of maple syrup, honey, or a sugar substitute while blending. Always add sweeteners gradually to avoid over-sweetening.
• Achieve Desired Thickness: If your shake is too thick, add more eggnog in small increments (1 tablespoon at a time) until it reaches your preferred consistency. If it’s too thin, a bit more ice cream will help thicken it up. Blend just until smooth to avoid over-mixing, which can make the shake too airy or watery.
• The McDonald’s Copycat Twist: Craving that nostalgic taste? This recipe gets you incredibly close to a homemade version of the popular McDonald’s Eggnog Milkshake, allowing you to enjoy it anytime, without the seasonal limitations!
• Creative Garnishes: Don’t limit yourself to just nutmeg and whipped cream. Consider a rim of crushed gingersnap cookies for a spicy crunch, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for added richness, or even a mini gingerbread man cookie perched on the rim for ultimate holiday charm.

What to Serve with Your Festive Eggnog Shake

This easy-to-make Eggnog Shake isn’t just a drink; it’s a delightful experience that can perfectly complement a variety of holiday meals or stand alone as a sweet indulgence. Here are some festive menu planning suggestions to inspire your holiday gatherings:

Perfect Side Dishes to Pair:

Enhance your holiday spread with savory or sweet sides that beautifully contrast or complement your creamy shake:

• Cheddar Bay Sausage Biscuits: A savory, cheesy bite that’s perfect for a holiday appetizer or brunch.
• Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Smokies: Irresistibly sweet and savory, these are always a crowd-pleaser.
• Cheesy Green Beans: A comforting and rich vegetable side that adds a touch of indulgence.
• Apple Stuffing: A classic holiday side with sweet and savory notes.
• Sausage Breakfast Biscuit Cups: Great for a festive brunch spread.
• Cranberry Salsa: A zesty, refreshing counterpoint to richer holiday flavors.
• Pineapple Stuffing: A unique sweet and savory blend that adds tropical flair.

Complementary Main Dishes:

Whether it’s a holiday brunch or dinner, these main courses will pair wonderfully with a post-meal Eggnog Shake, offering a delightful culinary journey:

• Easy German Apple Pancake: A delicious breakfast or brunch option that’s both sweet and satisfying.
• Broccoli Casserole: A hearty and cheesy comfort food dish, perfect for family gatherings.
• Sweet Potato Casserole with Candied Yams: A sweet and rich holiday classic that feels utterly indulgent.
• Crock Pot Ham: An effortless and flavorful main course that frees up oven space.
• CrockPot Coke Glazed Ham: A sweet and tangy twist on traditional ham, adding a unique flavor dimension.
• Bourbon Baked Ham: Adds a sophisticated, boozy flavor that complements the holiday spirit.

More Decadent Desserts:

If you’re hosting a dessert-focused gathering or simply can’t get enough sweet treats, these desserts will make an excellent ensemble with your creamy eggnog shake:

• 4 Ingredient Christmas Crack: Addictive and incredibly easy to make, a holiday staple.
• Sugared Cranberries: A beautiful and tart holiday garnish or festive snack.
• Easy Holiday Reindeer Chow: A fun, kid-friendly snack mix that’s great for parties.
• Grinch Bark: A festive and colorful chocolate treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
• Watergate Salad: A fluffy, sweet, and retro dessert that’s surprisingly light.
• Cherry Cheesecake Dip: A crowd-pleasing, creamy dip perfect for fruit, cookies, or graham crackers.
• Hot Chocolate Dip: Perfect for dipping cookies or fruit, bringing a warm flavor profile.
• Eggnog Cake: For the ultimate eggnog enthusiast, doubling down on the holiday flavor.

Festive Drinks to Enjoy Alongside (or Instead Of):

Expand your beverage offerings with these holiday-appropriate drinks, perfect for toasting the season:

• Broken Down Golf Cart Shot: A fun, fruity shot for your party.
• Baileys Hot Chocolate: A warm and boozy delight, ideal for chilly evenings.
• Grinch Jello Shots: Fun and festive for adults, adding a playful touch.
• Fireball Jello Shots: A spicy kick for your holiday party.
• Peppermint Patty Shot: Cool and chocolatey, reminiscent of the classic candy.
• Cranberry Mimosa: Bubbly and refreshing, a beautiful option for brunch.
• Three Wise Men Shot: A classic strong shot for liquor enthusiasts.
• Polar Bear Shot: A creamy, minty shot perfect for winter.

When to Serve This Delightful Eggnog Shake

This versatile and festive beverage is perfect for a multitude of occasions throughout the holiday season and beyond. Here are some ideal times to whip up a batch:

• Holiday Gatherings: A wonderful addition to any festive get-together, appealing to both kids (non-alcoholic) and adults (alcoholic).
• Christmas Parties: Serve it as a unique dessert drink that will have guests talking and coming back for more.
• Holiday Lunch or Dinner: The perfect sweet ending to a celebratory meal, providing a smooth and satisfying dessert.
• Christmas Brunch: A decadent treat to enjoy alongside your favorite holiday breakfast foods, making the occasion feel extra special.
• Cozy Winter Evenings: A simple, comforting indulgence for a quiet night in by the fire.
• After-School Treat: The non-alcoholic version is a fantastic and special snack for children during the holidays, making them feel part of the festivities.

Explore More Festive Recipe Collections

If you’ve fallen in love with the flavors of eggnog or are simply looking for more easy and delicious recipes to complete your holiday repertoire, be sure to check out these fantastic collections:

• 15+ Eggnog Recipes to Try This Season: A treasure trove of eggnog-inspired delights, from drinks to desserts.
• Easy 3 Ingredient Recipes That Taste Amazing!: For when you need delicious results with minimal effort and time.
• Easy Dessert Recipes with 5 Ingredients (Or Less!): Simple solutions for your sweet tooth, perfect for busy holiday schedules.
• Best Easy Christmas Cocktails Everyone Loves!: Festive drinks for your adult guests that are sure to impress.
• Warm Up by the Fire with These 30+ Winter Cocktails: A collection of cozy concoctions perfect for cold weather enjoyment.

Looking for even more culinary inspiration? Dive into our extensive categories including copycat recipes for your restaurant favorites, delicious dessert recipes, and our incredibly convenient CrockPot Recipes.

Stay connected with us for all our latest recipe posts and holiday inspiration! Follow Tammilee Tips on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.

Eggnog Milkshake Recipe

Easy 3 ingredient Eggnog Milkshake Recipe. The perfect holiday dessert that can be made with or without alcohol.

1 from 1 vote

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Rate

Prep Time:

5 minutes
minutes

Total Time:

5 minutes
minutes

Servings:
2

Calories:

564
kcal

Author:

Tammilee Tips

Ingredients

• 1
  cup
  eggnog
• 3 ¼
  cups
  Vanilla Ice Cream
• ½ – 1
  Teaspoon
  
  Ground Nutmeg
  

Instructions

1. Add eggnog, vanilla ice cream, and nutmeg to blender. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour into glasses. Garnish with whipped cream and more nutmeg. Enjoy!

Kitchen Tools

• Blender
• Shake Glass

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts

Eggnog Milkshake Recipe

Amount Per Serving

Calories 564
Calories from Fat 261

% Daily Value*

Fat 29g
45%

Saturated Fat 18g
113%

Cholesterol 169mg
56%

Sodium 240mg
10%

Potassium 642mg
18%

Carbohydrates 62g
21%

Fiber 2g
8%

Sugar 56g
62%

Protein 13g
26%

Vitamin A 1166IU
23%

Vitamin C 3mg
4%

Calcium 442mg
44%

Iron 1mg
6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

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