Eggnog lattes are one of those drinks that really fit in with the Christmas season. Unlike Peppermint Mochas and even gingerbread spiced drinks, they’re not really something that you can drink year-round because the key ingredient – eggnog – is not widely available in the spring and summer. So, I say splurge while you can and, if you’re an eggnog latte fan, don’t hesitate to enjoy a few around Christmas or New Year’s. And with this recipe for a Homemade Eggnog Latte, you don’t have to run out to the nearest coffee shop to enjoy one, because you can make one easily yourself!
An eggnog latte starts with eggnog. I recommend starting with a store bought eggnog for this type of drink, as they tend to be a little more consistent when you’re heating them up. You’ll have your choice of full fat, low fat and a variety of nondairy eggnogs. While I use a classic dairy eggnog in the recipe below, you can also use nondairy options for this drink. Don’t pick a ‘nog that comes with alcohol added to it because it will be difficult to steam up to a nice consistency, but you can spike your coffee with a splash of brandy or bourbon after you mix up the drink and I won’t tell. Above all, choose a brand you like because the latte is going to get all of its flavor from that eggnog.
The eggnog should be steamed with an espresso machine or heated and vigorously “steamed” by hand (which you can do by using a countertop milk frother/steamer or by vigorously whisking it in a medium bowl) to give it some body and create a nice head of foam on top of the drink. Since eggnog is already sweetened, you won’t need to add any extra sugar to your latte. I always add a little extra vanilla and nutmeg to make those flavors – which are classic ‘nog ingredients – really pop.
The eggnog is then combined with strong coffee or espresso, along with a bit of vanilla and nutmeg. You probably won’t have to add additional sugar to this because the eggnog is already sweet, but you can mix in a spoonful of sugar if that is how you prefer your coffee drinks. I tend to serve this as-is, with the milk foam on top of the drink, although it can also be finished with a spoonful of whipped cream and a dusting of extra nutmeg. Serve with a slice of cake or your favorite cookies.
Homemade Eggnog Latte
8 oz store bought eggnog
2 oz espresso or
4 oz strong coffee
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
1/8 tsp freshly ground nutmeg
whipped cream, optional
Steam eggnog using an espresso machine or a countertop milk steamer, or heat in the microwave and vigorously froth with a whisk until it is thick and foamy.
In a large mug, combine espresso (or strong coffee), vanilla extract and nutmeg. Top with steamed eggnog. Garnish with whipped cream, if desired.
Serves 1.
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