If you’re anything like me and love cozy, festive drinks that feel like a warm hug in a mug, then you’re going to adore this Eggnog Latte with Espresso and Nutmeg Recipe. It’s the perfect way to elevate your holiday mornings or any chilly day when you want a little magic in your cup. Creamy eggnog combines with rich espresso and a sprinkle of nutmeg for a truly indulgent treat that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Trust me, once you try this, it might just become your new seasonal obsession!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Simple to Make: You don’t need fancy equipment—just your espresso machine or coffee maker and a frother.
- Decadently Cozy Flavor: The combo of spiced eggnog with espresso is a total game changer that tastes like a holiday treat in every sip.
- Customizable: Use your favorite milk or adjust sweetness easily to suit your taste buds.
- Perfect for Any Time: Whether it’s a festive brunch or a quiet evening at home, this latte fits right in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Eggnog Latte with Espresso and Nutmeg Recipe plays a crucial role in balancing flavors and textures. When I first tried this combo, I was amazed at how simple ingredients came together to create such a luxurious drink. Here’s what you’ll need and a few tips on picking the best versions.

- Espresso: Freshly brewed espresso is key. If you don’t have an espresso machine, strong brewed coffee works in a pinch.
- Vanilla Simple Syrup: Adds just the right touch of sweetness and warmth; homemade or store-bought both work well.
- Milk of Choice: I love using whole milk for creaminess but almond or oat milk froth nicely too.
- Eggnog: The star ingredient! Pick your favorite brand or homemade version for the best flavor.
- Whipped Cream: Optional but highly recommended for that luscious topping.
- Ground Nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg brings out the cozy, festive notes perfectly.
Variations
I love making this Eggnog Latte with Espresso and Nutmeg Recipe my own depending on the occasion. Don’t hesitate to personalize it—this drink really embraces creativity and comfort.
- Dairy-Free Version: Switching to almond or coconut milk with dairy-free eggnog works great and keeps it creamy.
- Spiced Up: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of peppermint extract transforms it into a festive surprise.
- Extra Sweet: If you have a sweet tooth like me, just bump up the vanilla syrup a bit.
- Decaf Delight: Use decaf espresso for a cozy evening treat without the caffeine buzz.
How to Make Eggnog Latte with Espresso and Nutmeg Recipe
Step 1: Brew a Bold Espresso Base
Start by pulling two shots of espresso directly into your favorite mug. This part is where your espresso machine shines, creating that intense, rich coffee flavor that balances the sweetness of the eggnog perfectly. Don’t worry if your espresso isn’t flawless—the spices and creaminess will blend everything together beautifully.
Step 2: Sweeten with Vanilla Simple Syrup
Pour about one ounce of vanilla simple syrup over the fresh espresso. This adds a lovely vanilla warmth that complements the nutmeg and eggnog. You can adjust the amount of syrup to your liking—start small, give it a taste, and add more if you want it sweeter.
Step 3: Froth the Milk and Eggnog Together
Here’s where the magic happens: combine a quarter cup of your chosen milk with half a cup of eggnog, then froth or steam them together until warm and foamy. I discovered this trick recently and it makes the latte ultra creamy without losing the signature eggnog flavor. If you don’t have a frother, heat gently on the stove and whisk vigorously—it works too!
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour your warm, frothy milk and eggnog mixture over the espresso and syrup in your mug. Watch the lovely swirls of creaminess come together—it’s so satisfying! Finally, top with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a dusting of freshly ground nutmeg. This last step really elevates the look and taste, so don’t skip it!
Pro Tips for Making Eggnog Latte with Espresso and Nutmeg Recipe
- Freshly Brewed Espresso: Always use freshly brewed espresso shots for that unbeatable aroma and flavor.
- Balance Your Sweetness: I learned to add syrup gradually; too much can overpower the eggnog’s natural sweetness.
- Warm, Not Boiling: When frothing milk and eggnog, aim for warm and frothy—not scalding hot—to keep the flavors smooth.
- Use Fresh Nutmeg: Pre-ground nutmeg can lose its punch; grating fresh on top makes all the difference.
How to Serve Eggnog Latte with Espresso and Nutmeg Recipe

Garnishes
I always top my latte with a cloud of whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground nutmeg—sometimes even a cinnamon stick for stirring. This combo not only looks stunning but amps up the cozy, spiced vibe that makes the drink so special. A little dust of cocoa powder occasionally works nicely too!
Side Dishes
My go-to side for sipping this Eggnog Latte? Warm gingerbread cookies or a buttery croissant. The spicy-sweet cookies highlight the nutmeg and vanilla layers in the drink, creating a perfect holiday pairing.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday parties, I like to serve this latte in glass mugs so guests can admire the layers. Add a cinnamon stick and an anise star on the side for an elegant touch, or sprinkle a bit of edible gold dust on the whipped cream if you’re feeling fancy!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you ever have leftover eggnog or vanilla syrup, store them in airtight containers in the fridge. Eggnog lasts about 5-7 days once opened—keep it cold and sealed to stay fresh for all your latte needs.
Freezing
I don’t recommend freezing the full latte once made because the milk and eggnog separate when thawed. But you can freeze extra eggnog in small portions for future use—just thaw it slowly in the fridge before mixing.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your latte gently on the stove or microwave in short bursts. Stir between intervals to keep it creamy and prevent curdling. Freshly frothing a bit of milk or eggnog to top it off again can refresh the texture nicely.
FAQs
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Can I make the Eggnog Latte with Espresso and Nutmeg Recipe without an espresso machine?
Absolutely! You can use strong brewed coffee or instant espresso powder as a substitute. The rich flavor is key here, so brew your coffee as strong as possible for the best results.
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Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use a plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk and look for a vegan eggnog alternative or make your own at home with non-dairy milk and spices.
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How do I make homemade vanilla simple syrup?
It’s super easy: combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan, add a split vanilla bean or a splash of vanilla extract, heat until sugar dissolves, then cool. Store in the fridge for up to two weeks.
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Can I use store-bought whipped cream or should I make my own?
Either works! Store-bought is convenient, but homemade whipped cream will give your latte a fresher, lighter texture if you have the time.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely love how this Eggnog Latte with Espresso and Nutmeg Recipe brings a little festive luxury to everyday life. When I first tried it, I was hooked instantly, and now it’s my go-to for a quick holiday boost without the hassle of the coffee shop. You’ll enjoy how creamy, spiced, and satisfying it is—plus, it’s super easy to personalize. So go ahead, whip up a cup, cuddle up with your favorite sweater, and savor every cozy sip. You deserve it!
Print
Eggnog Latte with Espresso and Nutmeg Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A cozy Eggnog Latte combining rich espresso with creamy eggnog and a touch of vanilla syrup, topped with whipped cream and nutmeg for a festive, comforting drink perfect for the holiday season or any time you crave a warm, indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Espresso and Syrup
- 2 shots espresso
- 1 ounce vanilla simple syrup (or to taste)
Milk and Eggnog
- ¼ cup milk of choice
- ½ cup eggnog
Toppings
- Whipped cream for topping
- Ground nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Brew Espresso: Brew 2 shots of espresso directly into a mug to form the rich coffee base of your latte.
- Add Vanilla Syrup: Pour in 1 ounce of vanilla simple syrup or adjust to your preferred sweetness, stirring gently to combine.
- Froth Milk and Eggnog: Combine the ¼ cup milk of choice with ½ cup eggnog, then froth and steam the mixture together until hot and slightly foamy.
- Assemble Latte: Pour the steamed milk and eggnog mixture over the espresso and syrup in the mug, creating a creamy and flavorful latte.
- Top and Garnish: Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top, then lightly dust with ground nutmeg to enhance the aroma and festive appeal.
Notes
- Use any type of milk you prefer, including dairy or plant-based options like almond, oat, or soy milk.
- Adjust the amount of vanilla simple syrup to suit your taste for sweetness.
- For a stronger coffee flavor, increase espresso shots or reduce milk slightly.
- Ensure eggnog is well chilled before steaming to help achieve a nice froth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 latte (approx. 8 oz)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg


