Pumpkin spice + eggnog = holiday magic.
This cozy drink is warm, creamy, and tastes like fall in a mug.
It’s the kind of thing you sip while watching the leaves fall or curled up by the fireplace.
The pumpkin gives it a velvety richness, and the spices make it taste just like Thanksgiving.
If you’re looking for a fun twist on traditional eggnog, you’re gonna love this one.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ⅔ cup canned pumpkin puree
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (plus more for topping)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: ¼ to ½ cup dark rum or bourbon
Why I Love This Recipe
This pumpkin spice eggnog brings together two of my favorite fall things—pumpkin and spice—with the comforting creaminess of classic eggnog. The first time I made it, I couldn’t stop sneaking sips from the pot before it even cooled. It’s now a seasonal must-make for me.
- Tastes like pumpkin pie in a glass
- Super smooth and creamy
- Perfect for cozy nights or fall get-togethers
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Can be spiked or served alcohol-free
Servings & Time
Servings: 4
Total Time: 20 minutes
Macros (per serving, without alcohol)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 24g
- Sugar: 20g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Heating the egg yolks with the milk and cream slowly tempers them, creating that rich, custard-like texture without scrambling the eggs. The pumpkin puree thickens the mixture naturally while the sugar binds the water in the mix, helping it feel smooth and rich. The spices infuse better in warm liquid than cold, giving you a deeper flavor throughout.
Common Mistakes
- Rushing the heat: Going too fast can scramble the egg yolks. Low and slow wins.
- Not straining: Skipping the strainer means bits of cooked egg or spice could ruin that smooth finish.
- Too much pumpkin: It can overpower the flavor. Stick to the measured amount.
- Over-spicing: Pumpkin spice is strong. Start with less—you can always add more.
What to Serve With
- Cinnamon sugar donuts
- Pumpkin bread or muffins
- A slice of pecan or apple pie
- Fresh whipped cream on top
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Is this safe with raw eggs?
Yes—you’re cooking the egg yolks to a safe temperature.
Can I use non-dairy milk?
You can, but it won’t be as creamy. Coconut milk or oat milk work best.
Can I skip the alcohol?
Totally! It’s delicious with or without.
Make Ahead Tips
- Make it a day ahead and store in the fridge. The flavors deepen overnight.
- Shake or stir before serving—it may settle a little.
- Serve cold or gently reheat it on low.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Eggnog
Step 1: Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar
In a medium bowl, whisk together 4 large egg yolks and ½ cup granulated sugar until the mixture is pale yellow and slightly thickened.
Step 2: Heat Milk, Cream, and Pumpkin
In a saucepan, add 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, and ⅔ cup pumpkin puree. Heat over medium until it’s steaming but not boiling.
Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks
Slowly pour about ½ cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. This helps slowly raise the temp of the eggs.
Step 4: Combine and Cook
Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon—about 5–7 minutes.
Step 5: Add Spices and Vanilla
Turn off the heat. Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice, ¼ tsp ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
Step 6: Optional – Add Booze
If using alcohol, stir in ¼ to ½ cup dark rum or bourbon now. Mix well.
Step 7: Strain and Chill
Pour the eggnog through a fine mesh strainer into a clean container. Chill at least 2 hours.
Step 8: Serve and Top
Pour chilled eggnog into a round glass mug. Sprinkle with nutmeg and add a cinnamon stick if you like.
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Fine mesh strainer
- Spoon or ladle
- Glass container for chilling
- Mugs for serving
Substitutions and Variations
- Use maple syrup instead of sugar for deeper flavor
- Try coconut cream for a dairy-free twist
- Add a dash of espresso for a pumpkin spice latte vibe
- Swap dark rum for bourbon or spiced rum
Leftovers & Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Shake or stir before serving again
- Do not freeze—it will separate
Wrap-Up
This Pumpkin Spice Eggnog is like a hug in a mug. Whether you’re sipping it after dinner or serving it at a holiday get-together, it’s a drink that feels like a special treat. Let me know how it goes for you—and if you have any questions, drop them in the comments.
