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Milk based drinks

What are some variations of eggnog recipes?

By Drinks Type Editorial TeamPublished Oct 9, 2025Updated Nov 6, 20261 min read
Quick answer

Common eggnog variations are cooked-custard eggnog, eggless or milk-based eggnog, vegan eggnog with plant milk, lighter eggnog, non-alcoholic and spiked versions. Whatever you choose, cook the egg base or use pasteurized eggs, and do not rely on alcohol to make raw eggs safe.

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In this article
  1. Eggnog variations
  2. Popular versions
  3. Flavor ideas
  4. Food safety
  5. Serving

Eggnog variations

Eggnog is a spiced drink of milk, cream, eggs and sugar. The base recipe is open to many versions.

  • Cooked custard eggnog: eggs, sugar and milk are gently heated, stirring constantly, then chilled and finished with cream, vanilla and nutmeg. It is the safer homemade version.
  • Raw-egg eggnog: traditional, but it carries a Salmonella risk (see safety below).
  • Eggless eggnog: uses a cornstarch or pudding base for thickness.
  • Vegan eggnog: uses plant milk, coconut cream or cashews, with spices; some add a thickener such as cornstarch.
  • Lighter eggnog: more milk and less cream.
  • Non-alcoholic eggnog: the classic spices without spirits.
  • Spiked eggnog: add rum, brandy, bourbon or cognac to taste.

Flavor ideas

  • Nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves or cardamom.
  • Vanilla bean or extract.
  • Maple syrup or brown sugar instead of white sugar.
  • Chocolate, coffee or pumpkin spice.

Food safety

  • Cook an egg base to 160 F (71 C), checked with a food thermometer, stirring constantly.
  • If eggs stay raw, use shell eggs treated to destroy Salmonella or pasteurized egg products, as the FDA advises. Children, older adults, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk.
  • Do not count on alcohol to make raw eggs safe.
  • Store-bought eggnog is pasteurized, but check the label and the use-by date.
  • Refrigerate homemade eggnog and use it within a couple of days.

Serving

Serve cold in small cups with a sprinkle of nutmeg. Chill before serving so the flavors blend. If it separates, stir or whisk before pouring.

People also ask

Is eggnog safe with raw eggs?

Raw eggs carry a Salmonella risk. Cook the base to 160 F or use pasteurized eggs, and do not count on alcohol to kill bacteria.

How do you make vegan eggnog?

Blend plant milk, coconut cream or soaked cashews with sugar, vanilla and spices such as nutmeg, and thicken with cornstarch if needed.

How long does homemade eggnog last?

Keep it refrigerated and use it within a couple of days. Throw it out if it smells off.

General information only, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or are pregnant, ask your doctor before changing what you drink.

Sources

  1. U.S. FDA: What You Need to Know About Egg Safety, read 6 Nov 2026
Written by Drinks Type Editorial Team · Published Oct 9, 2025 · Updated Nov 6, 2026
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