The holiday season brings with it a symphony of delightful flavors and cherished traditions. Among the most anticipated seasonal treats is the beloved Eggnog Latte, a creamy, spiced coffee concoction that perfectly encapsulates the warmth and joy of winter. While many flock to their favorite coffee shops to indulge in this festive beverage, there’s a unique satisfaction in crafting your own at home. Have you ever wondered how to make a truly delicious homemade Eggnog Latte that rivals even the most popular café versions? Today, we’re sharing an exceptional Starbucks copycat recipe, ensuring you can savor this iconic holiday drink anytime you desire, right from your kitchen.

Master the Starbucks Copycat Eggnog Latte: Your Ultimate Homemade Holiday Drink Guide

Happy November! As Halloween decorations come down, our thoughts invariably turn to the enchanting holiday season. And what does that mean for coffee enthusiasts? It’s officially time for Eggnog Recipes to take center stage! Every year, as the crisp autumn air gives way to winter chills, many of us eagerly swap our Pumpkin Spice Lattes for the comforting embrace of a Starbucks Eggnog Latte. This transition marks the unofficial start of festive celebrations, filling our homes with delightful aromas and our cups with seasonal cheer. If you’re someone who cherishes delicious holiday treats and beverages during the most wonderful time of the year, then get ready to discover your new favorite festive indulgence.

Our homemade Eggnog Latte recipe offers a luxurious, rich, and perfectly spiced experience that captures the essence of the holidays. It’s a simple yet sophisticated drink that will impress your guests or provide a cozy moment of self-indulgence. Forget the long lines and fluctuating prices; with our easy-to-follow guide, you’ll be a master of this holiday classic in no time. We’ve perfected the balance of creamy eggnog and robust espresso, topped with a cloud of whipped cream and a dusting of nutmeg, to create a beverage that truly feels like Christmas in a mug. Get ready to elevate your holiday mornings and festive evenings with this delightful, easy-to-make beverage.

Ingredients for Your Perfect Homemade Eggnog Latte

Creating an epic Eggnog Latte doesn’t require a complicated list of obscure ingredients. In fact, you might already have most of these staples in your pantry. Here’s a quick overview of the simple yet essential components needed to craft this delightful drink. For precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the detailed recipe card below.

• Eggnog: The undeniable star of our show! For the richest flavor, select a high-quality, full-bodied eggnog. The specific brand can greatly influence the final taste, so pick one you genuinely enjoy. For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, many excellent plant-based eggnogs (almond, oat, or coconut milk-based) are available during the holiday season.
• Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: This ingredient adds an extra layer of velvety richness to your latte. Heavy cream will yield a truly decadent beverage, perfect for a luxurious treat. If you prefer a slightly lighter option without significantly compromising texture, half-and-half is an excellent choice. Regular milk can also be used for an even lighter version, but it will result in a less creamy consistency.
• Espresso or Strong Coffee: The coffee base is paramount. Freshly brewed espresso is ideal for achieving that authentic latte experience with its concentrated flavor and crema. If an espresso machine isn’t readily available, a strong, dark-roast coffee brewed via a French press, AeroPress, or even a moka pot can serve as a robust alternative. The bold coffee flavor is essential to balance the sweetness and creaminess of the eggnog.
• Ground Nutmeg: This spice is not just for garnish; it’s crucial for enhancing the traditional holiday notes of the eggnog. A light sprinkle on top adds both a beautiful visual appeal and an aromatic warmth that complements the drink perfectly. For the freshest and most potent flavor, consider grating whole nutmeg just before serving.
• Cool Whip or Whipped Cream: No festive latte is complete without a generous topping! Whether you opt for the convenient lightness of Cool Whip or the indulgent richness of freshly made whipped cream, this adds a delightful textual contrast and a touch of elegance. You can even experiment with flavored whipped creams, such as an eggnog-infused or spiced variety.

We are confident you’ll adore this DIY Homemade Eggnog Latte Recipe. This hot beverage is more than just a drink; it’s a treat to savor, a comforting embrace as the weather cools down and the festive spirit takes hold. It’s the perfect way to bring the cozy ambiance of a coffee shop right into your home during the most magical time of the year.

Essential Equipment for Crafting Your Eggnog Latte

You don’t need a professional barista setup to create a fantastic Eggnog Latte at home. Most of the necessary tools are likely already in your kitchen, making this a truly accessible holiday indulgence. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Small Saucepan: This is crucial for gently heating and warming your eggnog and cream mixture. Heating on the stovetop allows for precise temperature control, ensuring the mixture is warmed through without scorching or curdling, which can happen if heated too rapidly.
• Espresso Machine or Coffee Maker: To brew your strong coffee or espresso. For a true espresso shot, a dedicated machine is best. However, if you don’t own one, a drip coffee maker, French press, AeroPress, or even a simple moka pot can produce the rich, strong coffee needed to stand up to the eggnog.
• Milk Frother (Optional but Recommended): While you can enjoy a delicious latte without it, a milk frother (whether handheld, electric, or a steam wand on an espresso machine) is highly recommended. It beautifully froths the milk and eggnog together, creating that signature velvety texture and airy foam that elevates a homemade latte to coffee shop quality.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient proportions. Precise measurements ensure a balanced and consistently delicious latte every single time you make it, avoiding an overly sweet or overly strong coffee flavor.
• Cute Coffee Mugs: To serve your delightful creation! Presentation plays a big role in the enjoyment of any beverage, especially during the holidays. Choose your favorite festive mugs to enhance the cozy experience.

Our primary method for this recipe involves stovetop preparation, allowing for controlled and even heating. However, for those short on time or seeking ultimate convenience, the eggnog and cream mixture can also be carefully warmed in the microwave. Just be sure to heat it in short, 30-second intervals, stirring frequently between each, to prevent it from boiling over or developing a skin.

Preparation and Storage Tips for Your Eggnog Latte

One of the many benefits of this homemade holiday treat is its versatility when it comes to preparation and storage. You can easily make components ahead of time, ensuring a quick and easy festive drink whenever the craving strikes, even during the busiest holiday moments.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This holiday-themed Starbucks copycat recipe is wonderfully make-ahead-friendly! If you find yourself with extra latte mixture or simply want to prepare a batch in advance for easy serving, leftovers can be stored efficiently. Pour any cooled, leftover eggnog and cream mixture into an airtight container and keep it in your fridge for up to three days. This allows for quick enjoyment later without needing to start from scratch, perfect for impromptu holiday guests or a speedy morning treat.

Freezing and Reheating

You might be surprised to learn that both eggnog and brewed coffee freeze remarkably well, offering excellent options for extending the life of your ingredients or prepared latte. Freezing is an excellent option for long-term storage or for creating future iced delights:

• Freezing Coffee: For best results, you can freeze freshly brewed coffee in ice cube trays. Once solid, transfer the coffee cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn and store them for up to two months. This is a brilliant way to have strong coffee on hand for iced lattes or a quick coffee boost without watering down your drink.
• Freezing Eggnog: While eggnog can be frozen, its texture might change slightly upon thawing. If freezing plain eggnog, it’s best to whisk it thoroughly after thawing to restore some of its original consistency.

When it’s time to enjoy your chilled or frozen Eggnog Latte components, there are several delicious ways to reheat or repurpose them:

• Iced Eggnog Latte: Simply pour your refrigerated eggnog and cream mixture over ice and add a shot of freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee for a refreshing Iced Eggnog Latte. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the festive flavors even if the weather isn’t freezing cold.
• Eggnog Coffee Cubes: If you’ve frozen pre-mixed Eggnog Latte (or simply coffee and eggnog separately), these cubes make fantastic, caffeinated additions to a tall glass of cold milk. As they slowly melt, they infuse the milk with their rich, festive flavor, creating a delicious and gradually strengthening beverage.
• Instant Eggnog Milkshake: For a truly decadent treat, blend your frozen eggnog or eggnog latte cubes with a splash of milk and a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create an instant eggnog milkshake. This is a brilliant and fun way to transform leftovers into an entirely new, irresistible indulgence.
• Reheating Hot Latte: For a hot latte, gently reheat refrigerated leftover mixture on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly, until warm (again, avoid boiling). Then combine with freshly brewed hot coffee.

Delicious Eggnog Latte Recipe Variations

One of the greatest joys of making beverages at home is the freedom to customize and experiment. Our Eggnog Latte recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it perfectly to your taste preferences and dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy this holiday favorite.

Substitutions and Dairy Options

For those looking to adjust the richness or calorie count, half-and-half serves as an excellent replacement for heavy whipping cream. It offers a slightly lighter beverage without significantly compromising on the creamy texture that makes an Eggnog Latte so appealing. If you prefer an even lighter drink, regular milk (whole, 2%, or skim) can also be used, though it will naturally result in a thinner consistency. For an extra rich, velvety texture, consider steaming whole milk along with your eggnog for a luxurious mouthfeel.

Dietary Accommodations

• Vegetarian Option: This recipe is inherently vegetarian-friendly, as all traditional ingredients (dairy eggnog, cream, coffee, nutmeg) are plant-based, excluding meat, making it suitable for lacto-vegetarians.
• Vegan Option: To make this Eggnog Latte completely vegan, replace the traditional dairy eggnog, heavy whipping cream, and Cool Whip with their plant-based alternatives. Fortunately, the market now offers a fantastic and growing selection of non-dairy eggnogs made from coconut milk, oat milk, or almond milk, which are readily available in most grocery stores during the holiday season. Look for vegan whipped toppings or make your own with chilled full-fat coconut milk to complete your dairy-free indulgence.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as none of the core ingredients typically contain gluten. However, for those with severe sensitivities or allergies, always practice caution and double-check the labels of all packaged ingredients (especially eggnog and whipped cream) to ensure they are certified gluten-free, as cross-contamination can sometimes occur in processing.

Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Options

Our base Eggnog Latte recipe is completely alcohol-free, making it perfect for everyone, including children and those who prefer not to consume alcohol, to enjoy. However, for those adults seeking a festive kick, incorporating spirits can transform this cozy drink into a spirited holiday cocktail:

• Boozy Option: Elevate your latte with a shot or two of your favorite holiday spirits. Popular choices include Fireball cinnamon whiskey for a spicy warmth, RumChata for a creamy, cinnamony twist, Amaretto for a nutty sweetness, Brandy for a classic Christmas feel, Whiskey for a robust warmth, or traditional Rum. For true bourbon aficionados, a splash of bourbon adds a refined depth. Additionally, combining Kahlúa and vodka with your eggnog latte creates a luscious Eggnog Mudslide, a truly decadent adults-only treat perfect for a festive evening. Always remember to drink responsibly.

Serving Size and Flavor Customization

• Adjusting Servings: The recipe provided is designed to make two servings, perfect for sharing with a loved one or enjoying a generous mug all to yourself. It can easily be scaled up or down to accommodate a larger group for a holiday party or a single serving for a quiet morning moment by simply adjusting the ingredient quantities proportionally.
• Make it Spicier/Richer: A good quality eggnog often has a delightful spice profile, but you can always enhance it further to suit your palate. For a more robust and fragrant Eggnog Latte, consider adding a dash of vanilla extract, a pinch of ground cinnamon, a tiny touch of ground cloves, or even a hint of allspice to your milk and eggnog mixture as it heats. These additional spices complement the nutmeg beautifully and deepen the overall holiday flavor profile.

Sugar-Free Options

For those mindful of sugar intake, several options exist to enjoy this festive drink. The base recipe typically contains around 10 grams of sugar per serving, primarily derived from the eggnog itself. Many stores now offer “light” or reduced-sugar versions of eggnog, which significantly lower the calorie and sugar content without sacrificing too much flavor. You can also explore natural sugar substitutes like stevia or erythritol if you prefer to sweeten your latte beyond what the eggnog provides, though often the inherent sweetness of the eggnog is sufficient for many.

Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Eggnog Latte

Achieving that coveted coffee-shop quality Eggnog Latte at home is easier than you think with a few expert tips. These small details can make a significant difference in the flavor, texture, and overall enjoyment of your festive beverage:

• Quality Ingredients Matter Most: The foundation of an exceptional Eggnog Latte begins with high-quality ingredients. Start with a good quality eggnog that you genuinely enjoy the taste of, and use freshly brewed, strong coffee or espresso. The better your base ingredients, the more flavorful and satisfying your finished latte will be. Avoid using instant coffee or weak brews, as their flavors will be overpowered by the rich eggnog.
• Gentle Heating is Key: When heating your eggnog and cream mixture, be sure to do so gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat. The goal is to warm it through without boiling, as this can cause the eggnog to curdle or alter its texture and flavor. Stir constantly to prevent sticking and scorching. Aim for a temperature between 145°F and 165°F (63°C and 74°C) for optimal creaminess and flavor without scalding.
• Frothing for Luxurious Texture: If you have a milk frother (either a steam wand, electric frother, or even a simple handheld whisk), use it! Frothing the eggnog and cream together creates a luxurious, airy foam that adds a delightful mouthfeel and makes your latte truly special, mimicking professional café drinks. This also helps to integrate the flavors beautifully.
• Master the Garnish: Don’t underestimate the power of a good garnish. A generous swirl of whipped cream (consider making our Homemade Eggnog Whipped Cream recipe for an extra festive touch, or an adults-only Baileys Whipped Cream for an indulgent twist!) and a dusting of fresh ground nutmeg are traditional and highly recommended. A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a festive cinnamon stick can also add visual appeal and a complementary aroma.
• Ensure Sufficient Coffee Strength: It’s crucial that your coffee or espresso is strong enough to stand up to the rich, sweet flavor of the eggnog. Weak coffee will get lost in the creamy sweetness, resulting in a bland latte. Use a dark roast or brew your coffee slightly stronger than usual.
• Adjust to Personal Taste: Feel free to adjust the proportions of eggnog to coffee based on your preference. Some individuals enjoy a stronger coffee presence, while others prefer a sweeter, creamier, and more eggnog-dominant drink. Experiment until you find your perfect balance.

What to Serve with Your Festive Eggnog Latte

A beloved holiday beverage infused with caffeine, this sweet seasonal delight is perfect for any coffee lover. It’s versatile enough to be served throughout the winter season, from a special breakfast to a festive dinner and beyond. It’s particularly wonderful if you plan to stay up past midnight waiting for Santa, offering a cozy boost of energy!

Perfect Sides to Pair

Complement your rich and creamy Eggnog Latte with these delectable sides, ideal for holiday brunches or light meals:

• Cheddar Bay Sausage Biscuits
• Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Smokies
• Cheesy Green Beans
• Apple Stuffing
• Sausage Breakfast Biscuit Cups
• Cranberry Salsa
• Pineapple Stuffing

Hearty Main Dishes

For a complete and satisfying holiday meal, consider pairing your Eggnog Latte with these comforting main dishes:

• Easy German Apple Pancake
• Broccoli Casserole
• Sweet Potato Casserole with Candied Yams
• Crock Pot Ham
• CrockPot Coke Glazed Ham
• Bourbon Baked Ham

Decadent Desserts

Enhance your holiday spread with these sweet treats that perfectly complement the flavors of an Eggnog Latte:

• 4 Ingredient Christmas Crack
• Sugared Cranberries
• Easy Holiday Reindeer Chow
• Grinch Bark
• Watergate Salad
• Cherry Cheesecake Dip
• Hot Chocolate Dip

Festive Drinks

If you’re hosting a party and looking for a wider selection of beverages to offer alongside your Eggnog Latte, here are some other fantastic ideas:

• Broken Down Golf Cart Shot
• Baileys Hot Chocolate
• Grinch Jello Shots
• Fireball Jello Shots
• Peppermint Patty Shot
• Cranberry Mimosa
• Three Wise Men Shot
• Polar Bear Shot

When to Indulge in an Eggnog Latte

This versatile and comforting drink is perfect for a variety of occasions throughout the festive season, adding a touch of warmth and cheer to any moment:

• Holiday Gatherings: A warm and inviting welcome drink for guests arriving at your holiday party.
• Christmas Party: A delightful and unique addition to your festive beverage bar, offering a cozy alternative to traditional drinks.
• Holiday Brunch: A decadent accompaniment to a festive morning meal, making any brunch feel more special and celebratory.
• Christmas Breakfast: Start Christmas Day with a special, celebratory coffee that embodies the spirit of the season.
• Cozy Evenings: A perfect coffee drink to share with friends or enjoy solo by the fireplace, ideal for unwinding after a long day of holiday preparations.
• After-Dinner Treat: A sweet and satisfying end to a holiday meal, offering a comforting digestif with a caffeinated kick.

More Great Holiday Menu Recipes You’ll Love

Looking for even more culinary inspiration for your holiday festivities? Explore these fantastic recipes to complete your seasonal menu and delight your friends and family:

• Homemade Cinnamon Syrup
• Homemade Molasses Cookies
• No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls
• Sriracha Caramel Corn
• Homemade Irish Cream

Do you love discovering new recipes? Be sure to check out our extensive collection of copycat recipes, delightful dessert recipes, and our convenient CrockPot Recipes. There’s always something new to inspire your next culinary adventure and make meal prep a breeze!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Eggnog Lattes

• Can I use cold brew coffee for this recipe?

  Yes, you can absolutely use cold brew coffee, especially if you’re making an iced eggnog latte! For a hot latte, you’d want to gently warm the cold brew before combining it with the heated eggnog mixture to ensure your drink is uniformly hot. However, for a traditional hot latte experience with that fresh, bold flavor, freshly brewed hot espresso or strong coffee is usually preferred.

• What’s the best way to froth eggnog without a frother?

  If you don’t have a dedicated frother, don’t worry! You can still create a lovely foam. Gently heat the eggnog and cream mixture in a saucepan. Once warm, carefully transfer it to a heat-safe jar with a tight-fitting lid (filling it no more than halfway). Shake vigorously for about 30-60 seconds until a good amount of foam forms. Alternatively, you can use a whisk and rapidly whisk the mixture directly in the saucepan until frothy.

• Can I make a big batch of the eggnog mixture ahead of time for a party?

  Absolutely, making a big batch is a fantastic time-saver for holiday entertaining! You can prepare a larger quantity of the heated eggnog and cream mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stovetop (remember, do not boil!) and then combine with freshly brewed coffee. This makes serving multiple guests quick and easy.

• Why did my eggnog curdle when heating?

  Eggnog can sometimes curdle if heated too quickly or to too high a temperature, particularly if it comes to a rolling boil. To prevent this, always heat the mixture gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches the desired warm temperature (around 145-165°F or 63-74°C). Using a double boiler can also provide very gentle, even heating, further reducing the risk of curdling.

Homemade Eggnog Latte Recipe Card

Eggnog Latte Recipe!

How to make a delicious homemade Eggnog Latte Recipe

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 2

Calories: 536 kcal

Author: Tammilee Tips

Ingredients

• 1 Cup eggnog
• 1 Cup Heavy Whipping Cream or half n half
• 8 Ounce espresso or strong coffee
• Ground Nutmeg for garnish
• Cool Whip for garnish

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream and eggnog. Do not let it come to a boil; heat to between 145 degrees F to 165 degrees.
2. Prepare your espresso or strong coffee.
3. Pour the warm eggnog mixture over your freshly prepared coffee.
4. Top generously with Cool Whip or whipped cream and garnish with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Kitchen Tools

• Small Saucepan
• Milk Frother (optional)
• Coffee Maker/Espresso Machine
• Mugs
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts

Eggnog Latte Recipe!

Amount Per Serving

Calories 536 | Calories from Fat 441

% Daily Value*

Fat 49g 75%

Saturated Fat 31g 194%

Cholesterol 238mg 79%

Sodium 115mg 5%

Potassium 440mg 13%

Carbohydrates 17g 6%

Sugar 10g 11%

Protein 9g 18%

Vitamin A 2011IU 40%

Vitamin C 3mg 4%

Calcium 248mg 25%

Iron 1mg 6%

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

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Recipe originally shared on November 27, 2015. Updated October 2020.