There’s something about the holidays that just begs for cozy, sweet, and creamy drinks, and this Salted Caramel Eggnog is all of that wrapped into one delicious cup! It’s rich, velvety smooth, and has that perfect balance of sweet caramel and a touch of salt that makes every sip so satisfying.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or curling up with your family for a Christmas movie night, this drink will definitely steal the show!
I started making this a few years ago when I wanted something extra special for Christmas Eve, and let me tell you—it’s become a tradition. The best part? You can make it kid-friendly (skip the alcohol) or add a splash of rum or bourbon for the adults. Either way, it’s festive, comforting, and feels like a big holiday hug.
What You’ll Need
Here’s everything to grab for your perfect Salted Caramel Eggnog:
For the Eggnog:
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Salted Caramel:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/4 cup heavy cream, warmed
- 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
Toppings (Optional but Fun!):
- Whipped cream
- Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Pinch of flaky sea salt
- Cinnamon stick or grated nutmeg
Pro Tips for Success
- Temper the Eggs Like a Pro: When mixing the warm milk into the eggs, do it slowly and whisk constantly. This prevents scrambled eggs (no one wants eggy chunks in their drink!).
- Don’t Skip the Sea Salt: The flaky sea salt is what makes this drink pop. It balances the sweetness of the caramel perfectly.
- Make Ahead Friendly: You can make the eggnog base and caramel sauce a day in advance and store them separately. Just warm them up when you’re ready to serve!
- Use a Candy Thermometer for Caramel: If you’re new to making caramel, a thermometer helps you avoid burning it. Aim for a light amber color.
- Serve It Your Way: Adjust the sweetness or spice levels to your family’s liking. You can even serve it over ice for a chilled version.
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Heatproof mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Candy thermometer (optional but helpful)
Substitutions and Variations
- Milk Alternatives: Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Just know it won’t be as creamy.
- Make It Boozy: Add a splash of rum, bourbon, or spiced brandy for the adults.
- Sugar Options: Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar or light brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Caramel Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat until it turns a deep amber color. Carefully whisk in the butter until combined, then slowly stir in the warm heavy cream. Remove from heat and stir in the flaky sea salt. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Yolks
In a heatproof mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until light and creamy.
Step 3: Heat the Milk and Cream
In the same saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Heat gently over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
Step 4: Temper the Eggs
Slowly ladle a small amount of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly. Gradually add the rest, whisking until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 6: Add Caramel and Serve
Stir the caramel sauce into the eggnog base. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, a pinch of flaky sea salt, and a cinnamon stick if you like.
Tips for Leftovers and Storage
If you have leftover eggnog, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir well before reheating on the stove over low heat. Don’t microwave it—you want to warm it gently so the texture stays silky.
Let’s Make It Together!
This Salted Caramel Eggnog is so much more than just a drink—it’s a holiday memory waiting to happen. Whether it’s the kids licking the whipped cream off the top or the grown-ups savoring that hint of caramel with a splash of rum, it’s sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
When you make this recipe, come back and let me know how it turned out! Did you add your own twist? Leave a comment and share your holiday magic with us.
