Eggnog milkshake sounds like a holiday cliche, but it’s more than that.
It’s a chance to turn a seasonal classic into something refreshingly cool and unexpectedly simple.
The richness of the eggnog pairs beautifully with the icy cream, making each sip a little celebration.
What I love is how forgiving this recipe is. You can add booze, skip the alcohol, or sprinkle extra spices for that perfect personal touch.
It’s one of those recipes that feels like a hug, even if you’re just making it alone.
Why I Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day, blending nostalgia with a bit of indulgence.
The familiar spices and creamy texture always make me feel a little more grounded.
Plus, it’s versatile add more booze, spice it up, or keep it simple. That’s what keeps me coming back, especially during the quiet holiday nights.
Breaking Down the Ingredients
- Eggnog: The star, creamy and fragrant with nutmeg and vanilla, bring that holiday warmth.
- Vanilla ice cream: Creates the thick, luscious body—swap for frozen yogurt if you want less richness.
- Nutmeg or cinnamon: Adds that spicy kick, fresh-grated for the best aroma.
- Bourbon or rum (optional): A splash adds depth and a boozy kick, but skip if you prefer non-alcoholic.
- Whipped cream and cinnamon for topping: A final flourish that makes the whole thing feel special.
Tools of the Trade for a Creamy Eggnog Shake
- Blender: To blend all ingredients into a smooth, frothy milkshake.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To measure ingredients accurately, especially the eggnog and spices.
- Spatula: To scrape down the sides of the blender if needed.
- Glassware: To serve the milkshake in a festive style.
Crafting the Perfect Eggnog Milkshake: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Gather your ingredients and tools before you start. It makes the process smoother.
Step 2: In a blender, combine 2 cups of vanilla ice cream, 1 cup of eggnog, and a splash of bourbon if you like.
Step 3: Blend on high until smooth and frothy, about 30 seconds.
Step 4: Taste and adjust with more eggnog or a pinch of nutmeg, if needed.
Step 5: Pour into glasses and top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Step 6: Serve immediately with a straw or a spoon for those thicker, creamier bites.
Eggnog Milkshake
Equipment
- Blender
- Spatula
- Glassware
Ingredients
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream well frozen for best texture
- 1 cup eggnog preferably creamy and fragrant with nutmeg and vanilla
- 1 dash bourbon or rum optional, for depth and boozy flavor
- 0.5 teaspoon nutmeg or cinnamon freshly grated for best aroma
- whipped cream for topping whipped cream optional, for finishing
- cinnamon for sprinkling cinnamon freshly grated for topping
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients and tools—this helps everything go smoothly.
- Add two generous scoops of vanilla ice cream into your blender, creating a thick base for the shake.
- Pour in one cup of eggnog, which will bring that warm, spicy flavor and creamy texture.
- If you like a boozy kick, add a dash of bourbon or rum to deepen the flavor.
- Sprinkle in half a teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg or cinnamon to enhance the seasonal spices.
- Secure the lid on your blender and blend on high for about 30 seconds until the mixture is smooth, frothy, and well combined. You should hear a gentle hum and see the shake turn a creamy, even color.
- Stop the blender and carefully remove the lid. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides if needed, ensuring everything is well mixed.
- Pour the thick, frosty milkshake into your favorite glass or mug, watching it settle into a creamy, inviting pour.
- Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream and sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive finish.
- Serve immediately with a straw or spoon, and enjoy this cozy, seasonal treat that’s perfect for relaxing nights or holiday gatherings.
Notes
Nutrition
Tips and Tricks for the Best Eggnog Milkshake
- Ensure your ice cream is well frozen for a thick, scoopable texture.
- If the shake is too thick, add a splash more eggnog and blend briefly.
- Watch the blend time—over-blending can make it too runny and melt too fast.
- If you notice a grainy texture, your ice cream might be too soft—use firmer ice cream next time.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
- Ice cream melts too quickly and thins out the shake.? Use frozen ice cream to avoid a watery shake.
- The shake is too stiff to pour smoothly.? Add a dash more eggnog if too thick.
- The shake becomes too airy or starts to melt.? Don’t over-blend; 30 seconds is enough.
- The flavor is too dull or spice-heavy.? Adjust spices to taste before serving.
This milkshake isn’t just a drink; it’s a small, creamy celebration of the season. The rich eggnog base combined with icy cream feels like a warm hug in a glass, especially when topped with a dusting of nutmeg. Feel free to tweak the alcohol or spice levels to match your mood. It’s simple, indulgent, and perfect for cozy nights or holiday brunches.
