10 Festive Eggnog Cocktails for the Holiday Season

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These Christmas eggnog drinks are perfect for the holiday season. They’re easy to make, creative, and delicious — ideal for impressing guests. Most of the recipes below are alcoholic, though several are non-alcoholic or easily adapted by adding your preferred spirit.

For more holiday cocktail ideas, explore the gin- and Baileys-themed Christmas cocktails referenced in the original collection.

Tips For Making These Eggnog Holiday Drinks

  • Chill your eggnog. If you make eggnog from scratch, refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight before using it in cocktails to ensure the drinks are cold and well blended.
  • Garnish for presentation. Festive garnishes such as whipped cream, shaved chocolate, sprinkles, a dusting of nutmeg or a cinnamon stick elevate eggnog drinks. Brown sugar whipped cream is a cozy option for topping.
  • Make a vegan or dairy-free version. For guests who avoid dairy, substitute a vegan eggnog or a plant-based alternative to enjoy the same flavors without dairy.
  • Store eggnog safely. Store homemade eggnog in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Once opened, store-bought eggnog will typically last 5–7 days in the fridge.

FAQ

Is eggnog a Christmas drink?

Yes. Eggnog is traditionally associated with Christmas. It’s a creamy blend of milk, cream, egg yolks and warm spices. Its roots trace back to older British drinks like posset, and it has been connected to holiday celebrations for centuries.

What is the best alcohol for eggnog?

Classic choices include rum and whiskey, but eggnog pairs well with many spirits. Popular additions include vodka, brandy, Irish cream (Baileys), RumChata, or flavored liqueurs depending on the recipe.

Can you buy eggnog year round?

Eggnog is typically sold seasonally, appearing in stores from late fall through the holidays. However, you can make homemade eggnog any time of year if you want it outside the usual season.

Do you drink eggnog hot or cold?

Eggnog is most commonly served cold, but warmed eggnog or eggnog-based hot drinks are also enjoyed by many, especially on chilly evenings.

Christmas Eggnog Drinks

A RumChata eggnog cocktail garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg and a cinnamon stick.

Photo Credit: thelittlestcrumb.com

RumChata Eggnog Cocktail

This creamy RumChata eggnog cocktail is an easy holiday drink made with only two main ingredients. It’s simple to customize with add-ins like Baileys, chocolate syrup, or vanilla vodka.

An eggnog white russian cocktail on a wooden serving board.

Photo Credit: crayonsandcravings.com

Eggnog White Russian

This Eggnog White Russian is a quick holiday cocktail made with vodka, coffee liqueur, and eggnog — a festive twist on the classic White Russian. A RumChata variation is another tasty option.

An eggnog hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and garnished with a cinnamon stick.

Photo Credit: tornadoughalli.com

Eggnog Hot Chocolate

Eggnog hot chocolate combines two winter favorites: rich hot cocoa and creamy eggnog. This non-alcoholic treat can be spiked with Baileys or another liqueur for an adult version.

A chocolate peppermint eggnog cocktail garnished with a candy cane.

Photo Credit: strawberryblondiekitchen.com

Chocolate Peppermint Eggnog Cocktail

This festive cocktail blends peppermint schnapps, crème de cacao and eggnog for a chocolate-peppermint holiday drink. Peppermint syrup is a handy substitute if schnapps isn’t available.

A Baileys eggnog cocktail sitting on a golden platter.

Photo Credit: burrataandbubbles.com

Baileys Eggnog Cocktail

This Baileys eggnog is rich and creamy, balanced with warm spices and a touch of maple. Adding Irish cream turns homemade eggnog into a decadent holiday cocktail.

An eggnog latte topped with whipped cream and caramel sauce.

Photo Credit: greedygourmet.com

Eggnog Latte

Bring the coffee-shop favorite home with an eggnog latte — perfect for a cozy Christmas morning. For an adult version, add Baileys or RumChata.

An eggnog milkshake topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, on a wooden table.

Photo Credit: simplyscrumptiouseats.com

Eggnog Milkshake

This eggnog milkshake pairs vanilla ice cream with eggnog for a quick, creamy holiday treat that’s ready in minutes — perfect for brunch or dessert on Christmas Day.

A gingerbread eggnog cocktail garnished with whipped cream and a cinnamon stick.

Photo Credit: gastronomblog.com

Gingerbread Eggnog Cocktail

This gingerbread-inspired cocktail features bourbon, vodka, coffee liqueur, eggnog and a molasses simple syrup for cozy holiday flavors.

A creamy eggnog vodka martini on a white wooden table.

Photo Credit: theshortordercook.com

Eggnog Vodka Martini

This eggnog vodka martini is a festive cocktail that captures classic holiday aromas and flavors, blending eggnog with vodka for a smooth, seasonal martini.

An eggnog brandy alexander cocktail on a golden platter, next to red candy canes.

Photo Credit: olivetavern.com

Eggnog Brandy Alexander

A seasonal take on the Brandy Alexander, this version combines Cognac-style brandy with dark crème de cacao, eggnog, peppermint schnapps and cinnamon syrup for a holiday-ready cocktail.