The holiday season brings joy, warmth, and traditional treats like eggnog. But what if you’re vegan, dairy-free, or looking for healthier alternatives? That’s where vegan eggnog steps in a creamy, festive drink that’s perfect for everyone, including those with dietary restrictions.
In this article, we’ll explore what vegan eggnog is, how to make it, its variations, and why it’s a must-have for your holiday celebrations.
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What is Vegan Eggnog?
Traditional eggnog is made from milk, cream, sugar, eggs, and sometimes a splash of rum or bourbon, a holiday classic dating back centuries. But the vegan version recreates all that richness and warmth using entirely plant-based ingredients, without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Instead of dairy, non-dairy milks like almond, soy, oat, or coconut provide the creamy base. To replace the eggs, many recipes use soaked cashews, coconut cream, or natural thickeners like cornstarch or arrowroot. The result? A smooth, velvety drink that’s every bit as indulgent as the traditional version and perfect for those who are vegan or lactose-intolerant.
As plant-based living grows in popularity, veganized classics like this one are taking center stage at holiday parties. Much like our Pumpkin Cream Cheese Spread, vegan eggnog proves that comfort food can be delicious, festive, and inclusive.
Why Is Eggnog Popular at Christmas?
Eggnog has long been associated with celebration, a drink shared during cold winter nights, often spiked with spirits and topped with nutmeg. Its creamy sweetness and warming spices make it a perfect symbol of comfort and togetherness.
Vegan eggnog keeps that same nostalgic charm while aligning with modern diets. It’s a festive beverage that invites everyone to join in the cheer no dairy, no eggs, no compromise.
Read more: Why is Eggnog Popular at Christmas
The Magic Behind Vegan Eggnog: Key Ingredients
The secret to the perfect vegan eggnog lies in balance choosing the right dairy-free milk, sweeteners, and spices to recreate the familiar texture and flavor.
Base: Plant-Based Milks
- Oat milk – naturally sweet, creamy, and thick.
- Almond milk – light and nutty, great for mild flavor.
- Soy milk – rich and protein-packed.
- Coconut milk – adds tropical richness and body.
- Cashew milk – silky and luxurious when blended fresh.
Sweeteners
- Maple syrup – adds warmth and a hint of caramel.
- Agave nectar – smooth and neutral.
- Cane sugar – for classic sweetness.
- Blended dates – for natural sweetness and depth.
Spices
- Nutmeg – the signature holiday flavor.
- Cinnamon – adds sweet warmth.
- Cloves – deep and aromatic.
- Vanilla extract – ties it all together beautifully.
The Essential Elements of a Perfect Vegan Eggnog
To truly capture that holiday magic, your vegan eggnog should:
- Be rich and creamy: achieved with the right plant milk or blended nuts.
- Have balanced sweetness: not too sugary, allowing spices to shine.
- Contain warming spices: nutmeg and cinnamon are essential.
Just like finding the ideal coffee brewing temperature, getting the right texture and warmth in vegan eggnog is a delicate balance of ingredients and timing.
What Makes Vegan Eggnog Special
What truly makes vegan eggnog stand out in the realm of holiday beverages are its distinctive features that cater to a wide range of needs and preferences.
Firstly, and perhaps most significantly, it is completely free from animal products. This makes it an ideal choice for vegans and anyone following a plant-based lifestyle. For those who choose not to consume dairy or eggs for ethical or personal reasons, vegan eggnog offers a way to enjoy a beloved holiday tradition without compromising their values. It's like finding that perfect gift that aligns perfectly with someone's principles.
Secondly, vegan eggnog boasts the vegan eggnog benefit of being naturally cholesterol-free. Traditional eggnog, due to its dairy and egg content, contains cholesterol. For individuals mindful of their cholesterol intake, opting for a dairy-free holiday drink like vegan eggnog can be a healthier alternative, allowing them to indulge in a festive treat with greater peace of mind.
Finally, one of the most significant eggless eggnog advantages is its suitability for individuals with dairy and egg allergies or intolerances. These dietary restrictions can often make it challenging to enjoy traditional holiday fare. Vegan eggnog provides a delicious and safe alternative, ensuring that everyone can partake in the festive cheer. Imagine the joy of someone with a dairy allergy being able to finally enjoy a creamy glass of eggnog during the holidays – that's the unique appeal of this plant-based beverage.
Serve your eggnog in our eco-friendly compostable cups for a more sustainable holiday celebration. Get sample now!
Realated blog: How to Make Non Alcoholic Eggnog?
How to Make Vegan Eggnog (3 Ways)
Option 1: Classic Creamy Vegan Eggnog Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 cups unsweetened non-dairy milk (oat or soy recommended for creaminess)
- 1/4 - 1/2 cup maple syrup or sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg (freshly grated preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder (optional, for extra thickness)
- 2 tablespoons cold non-dairy milk (if using cornstarch/arrowroot)
- Optional: 2-4 ounces of rum, bourbon, or brandy (per serving)
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, whisk together the non-dairy milk, maple syrup or sugar, nutmeg, and cinnamon. If using cornstarch or arrowroot powder, whisk it together with the 2 tablespoons of cold non-dairy milk in a separate small bowl until smooth.
- Cook and Thicken (Optional): Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. If using the cornstarch/arrowroot slurry, slowly pour it into the simmering milk while continuously whisking. Continue to simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until the eggnog slightly thickens.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Chill: Pour the traditional dairy-free eggnog into a pitcher or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the eggnog to fully chill.
- Serve: Before serving, stir the classic vegan eggnog recipe. You can serve it cold, or gently warm it on the stovetop if desired. If adding alcohol, stir it in just before serving. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of nutmeg.
Tip for Consistency: For an even smoother texture, you can strain the warm eggnog through a fine-mesh sieve before chilling.
Option 2: Quick and Easy Vegan Eggnog (No Blender Required)
Ingredients:
- 4 cups unsweetened non-dairy milk (almond or oat work well)
- 1/4 - 1/3 cup powdered sugar or maple syrup (powdered sugar dissolves easily without heat)
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/4 cup vegan condensed milk for extra richness
- Optional: 2-4 ounces of rum, bourbon, or brandy (per serving)
Instructions:
- Combine Cold Ingredients: In a large pitcher or bowl, whisk together the non-dairy milk, powdered sugar (or maple syrup), nutmeg, and cinnamon until the sweetener is fully dissolved.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and the optional vegan condensed milk.
- Chill: Refrigerate the quick vegan eggnog recipe for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to combine.
- Serve: Stir well before serving. This easy vegan eggnog without blender can be served cold. If adding alcohol, stir it in just before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Tip for Richness: While this recipe doesn't require a blender, using full-fat oat milk or adding vegan condensed milk will significantly enhance the richness and creaminess.
Option 3: Rich and Decadent Vegan Eggnog (Using Cashews)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in cold water)
- 3 cups unsweetened non-dairy milk (almond or oat recommended)
- 1/4 - 1/2 cup maple syrup or agave nectar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg (freshly grated preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons bourbon or rum
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Drain Cashews: Drain and rinse the soaked cashews thoroughly.
- Blend Ingredients: In a high-speed blender, combine the drained cashews, non-dairy milk, maple syrup or agave, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla extract, optional bourbon, and salt.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This may take a minute or two, depending on your blender.
- Chill: Pour the creamy vegan eggnog with cashews into a pitcher or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill and allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Stir the rich dairy-free eggnog before serving cold. Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.
Tip for Creaminess: For the absolute smoothest texture, blend for an extended period, scraping down the sides of the blender as needed. You can also strain the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or nut milk bag for an ultra-silky consistency.
Tips for the Perfect Vegan Eggnog
- Use full-fat milk alternatives (like oat or coconut) for extra creaminess.
- Grate nutmeg fresh for a brighter, more aromatic spice.
- Chill overnight: flavors deepen and blend beautifully.
- Adjust sweetness before chilling: cold drinks taste slightly less sweet.
- For a boozy version, add rum, bourbon, or brandy just before serving.
FAQ about Vegan Eggnog Recipe
FAQ 1: Can I make vegan eggnog without nuts?
Yes, you can definitely make vegan eggnog without nuts. Using oat milk, soy milk, or even seed-based milks like hemp or sunflower milk will work well as a base. You might need to use a thickener like cornstarch or silken tofu to achieve a creamy consistency similar to versions made with cashews.
FAQ 2: How long does homemade vegan eggnog last?
Homemade vegan eggnog typically lasts for 3-5 days when stored properly in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It's always a good idea to give it a sniff test before consuming to ensure it hasn't spoiled.
FAQ 3: Can I freeze vegan eggnog?
Freezing vegan eggnog may alter the texture, potentially making it a bit grainy after thawing. However, it is possible. If you plan to freeze it, consider using it in blended applications like smoothies after thawing and be sure to stir it very well.
FAQ 4: What are some good non-alcoholic additions to vegan eggnog for extra flavor?
For extra flavor in your vegan eggnog, you can try adding extracts like almond or rum flavoring for a hint of those classic notes without alcohol. A pinch of allspice can deepen the warm spice profile, or a dash of orange zest can add a bright and festive aroma.
Conclusion: Sip on the Festive Flavor of Vegan Eggnog
Vegan eggnog is more than a drink, it’s a celebration of inclusivity, comfort, and creativity. It’s creamy, spiced, and completely free from dairy or eggs, making it a perfect holiday beverage for everyone around the table.
This year, skip the store-bought carton and make your own plant-based eggnog from scratch. Pour it into sustainable compostable drinkware, garnish with nutmeg, and toast to a warm, joyful season.
