You know those moments when it’s cold outside and all you can think of is a freshly brewed espresso from the espresso machine or a strong coffee? Maybe you’re in the mood for a creamy eggnog, yet you’re also in need of a small energy kick – this is where your homemade Cappuccino Eggnog comes into play. Instead of getting that Starbucks Eggnog Latte, you can enjoy this one at home, which is cheaper and tastes better, too.

You’re combining the creamy richness of traditional eggnog with the robust flavor of coffee – best part? This easy recipe is also fast to make, making it perfect for a holiday treat.

Psst. New Year’s Eve is close, this is also a great way to start the year – even though it’s amazing at any time of year and not just when the holiday spirit visits!

How to Make Homemade Cappuccino Eggnog

Here are the simple ingredients you need:

4 large eggs
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups whole milk
1 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: Whipped cream and additional ground cinnamon for garnish

Alternative Ingredients:

Eggs – Pasteurized eggs, egg substitutes
Sugar – Honey, maple syrup, stevia (for a low-calorie option)
Milk – Almond milk, coconut milk, oat milk (for dairy-free alternatives)
Coffee – Decaf coffee, instant coffee powder (dissolved in water), espresso powder
Heavy Cream – Coconut cream, dairy-free heavy whipping cream alternatives
Cinnamon – Allspice, pumpkin spice (for a different flavor profile)
Nutmeg – Ground cloves, mace
Vanilla Extract – Almond extract, rum extract (for a non-alcoholic hint of rum)
Cinnamon garnish – Cocoa powder, chocolate shavings

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Take a large bowl and beat the eggs and sugar together until smooth and well combined using a hand mixer or food processor.

Step 2: Meanwhile, take a small saucepan and heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer, just don’t let it boil. Then gradually add a small amount of the hot milk to the egg mixture from step one while you’re whisking constantly – this is also known as tempering and prevents the eggs from cooking too quickly and curdling to scrambled eggs.

Step 3: Once done, slowly pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk and add the heavy cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract while you’re still whisking constantly – then cook it over low heat while you continue to stir it constantly.

Step 4: Once your eggnog mixture is thick enough to coat the back of your spoon (takes about 5-7 minutes) remove it from the heat and stir in the brewed coffee or espresso – mix everything well.

Finally, I love it hot, but if you like it cold, pour it into a pitcher or other big container, let it settle and cool off at room temperature, and then chill it in the fridge for at least 2 hours.

Pour a shot of espresso into your favorite glasses or cups and top it off with the eggnog mix, whipped cream and maybe chocolate or crushed cinnamon – enjoy this classic holiday drink!.

Expert Tips

If you like a more pronounced coffee flavor, make your coffee or espresso stronger.
Raw eggs not your thing? Use pasteurized eggs!
For an alcoholic version, use a splash of rum, brandy, or bourbon to give you that extra warmth kick.
Create a dairy-free alternative by using almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk as well as a dairy-free heavy cream alternative.
This homemade eggnog is also my favorite way to replace coffee creamer and create my own spiced homemade coffee creamer.

What to Serve Eggnog Cappuccino With

Sweet pastries – Cinnamon rolls, croissant, cinnamon swirl bread
Cookies – Gingerbread cookies, shortbread, butter cookies, ginger snaps
Fruitcake or Stollen
Tiramisu
Chocolate – Dark chocolate truffles, chocolate-covered almonds, chocolate cake, brownies
Roasted almonds or pecans
Baked brie cheese charcuterie
Fresh fruit platter
Dried fruit and nut mix

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some commonly asked questions that you may have as well!

What Coffee is Best for Eggnog Cappuccino?

To get that rich taste in your eggnog cappuccino, you will want to take a strong, rich coffee or espresso – the stronger the better. That robust coffee flavor complements the creamy, spiced taste of the eggnog otherwise you may end up with an overpowered eggnog flavored drink.

Can Eggnog Cappuccino Be Made Vegan?

Absolutely! You can make it by using vegan eggnog alternatives, which are typically made out of plant-based milks like almond, soy, or coconut milk – then pair it with your favorite vegan coffee and enjoy!

How Do You Froth Eggnog for Cappuccino?

To get that foamy delicious eggnog froth, you can use handheld frothers, whisk, or even a blender on low speed as eggnog is thicker than regular milk – just heat the eggnog slightly before you start frothing to get the best texture.

Can You Use Store-Bought Eggnog for Cappuccino?

Yes! If you’re running low on time, you can take your favorite eggnog from the grocery store, just make sure that it’s high-quality to get the best flavor – for a healthier option, pick an eggnog without added sugars or artificial flavors.

How Do You Make Eggnog Cappuccino?

To make an Eggnog Cappuccino, mix eggnog with freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee for the best flavor. So, instead of using frothed milk for your Cappuccino, you’d just use frothed eggnog – plus, the added spices on top like nutmeg and cinnamon to create something visually delicious, too!