Making a rich, festive eggnog latte doesn’t require a trip to the coffee shop. This recipe delivers the warm, spiced flavor of the season in under 10 minutes, using just three core ingredients and minimal equipment. Whether you prefer a quick stovetop method or a frothy microwave version, this guide ensures a comforting drink without the café price tag.
Why Bother Making It Yourself?
The appeal is simple: cost savings and convenience. While specialty coffee shops excel at seasonal flavors, the expense adds up. This recipe offers the same experience for a fraction of the price. Beyond that, customizing this latte allows you to control the sweetness, milk type, and caffeine level – something a barista can’t always do on the spot.
The Essentials
The key to a great eggnog latte lies in quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Eggnog: Store-bought works perfectly well, but homemade is an option if you prefer. Choose a brand with balanced nutmeg flavor and minimal additives. Organic Valley is one tested choice.
- Milk: Any unsweetened milk will do: 2%, whole, or even oat milk. The goal is creaminess, not sweetness.
- Espresso: Two shots of hot, dark-roast espresso provide the caffeine kick and balance the eggnog’s richness. Instant espresso is a viable substitute if needed.
Three Ways to Make It
This recipe offers flexibility based on your kitchen setup. All methods aim for a final temperature between 145°F and 165°F.
Method 1: Milk Frother or Steaming Pitcher (Fastest)
- Combine ½ cup eggnog and ¼ cup milk in a steaming pitcher or frother.
- Heat and froth using the steaming wand until hot.
Method 2: Stovetop (Traditional)
- Heat ½ cup eggnog and ¼ cup milk in a saucepan over medium heat until just simmering (about 145°F–165°F).
- Remove from heat. Froth with a handheld wand or shake vigorously in a sealed jar for 30–60 seconds.
Method 3: Microwave (Quickest)
- Heat ½ cup eggnog and ¼ cup milk in a microwave-safe jar for 90 seconds, until hot to the touch.
- Seal the jar and shake vigorously until foamy (30–60 seconds).
Assembly
- Pour two shots of hot espresso into a mug.
- Gently pour the frothed eggnog mixture over the espresso, holding back the foam with a spoon.
- Spoon the remaining foam on top.
- Garnish with whipped cream, grated nutmeg, or a cinnamon stick, if desired.
Customization
- Decaf: Substitute one or both espresso shots with decaf for a caffeine-free option.
- Instant Espresso: If fresh espresso isn’t available, use instant espresso powder according to package directions.
- Sweeter?: While eggnog has sugar, you can add a splash of maple syrup or vanilla extract if you prefer.
Bottom line: This homemade eggnog latte is a fast, affordable, and customizable alternative to the coffee shop version. Enjoy the creamy, spiced flavors of winter without breaking the bank.
