Hi friends! If you’re looking for a warm, cozy holiday treat that feels like a hug in a mug, you’ve got to try this Pumpkin Spice Eggnog.
It’s a creamy, dreamy twist on the classic holiday favorite, combining the velvety texture of eggnog with the sweet, spicy flavors of pumpkin pie.
Perfect for sipping by the fire, serving at holiday gatherings, or just indulging in a little “me time” after the kids are in bed.
I started making this recipe a couple of years ago when I wanted something festive, but I wasn’t in the mood for another pumpkin pie.
Let me tell you, it’s been a hit with everyone ever since—especially the kids!
They love the creamy sweetness (without even realizing it’s got actual pumpkin in it—mom win!).
And the best part? It’s so easy to whip up at home with simple ingredients you probably already have. Let’s get into it!
What You’ll Need
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated is best, but ground works too!)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: whipped cream and cinnamon sticks for topping
Pro Tips
- Temper your eggs carefully – When adding the warm milk mixture to the egg yolks, do it slowly so you don’t accidentally cook the eggs!
- Use fresh spices if possible – Freshly grated nutmeg and quality pumpkin pie spice really make a difference in flavor.
- Cool it down if needed – If your family prefers eggnog cold, chill it in the fridge for an hour or two before serving. It’s delicious warm or cold!
- Customize the sweetness – Add more or less sugar based on your personal preference. You can always sweeten it up at the end if needed.
- Make it festive – Topping it with whipped cream, a sprinkle of spices, or even a cinnamon stick makes it feel extra special for the holidays.
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fine mesh strainer (optional, but helpful for a silky smooth texture)
- Ladle for serving
Substitutions and Variations
- Dairy-free option: Substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk and coconut cream.
- No pumpkin spice?: Use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to make your own blend.
- Spiked version: Add 1/4 cup of bourbon, rum, or brandy for the adults after cooking!
- Sweeter or less sweet: Adjust the sugar to your taste. Start with less and add more at the end if needed.
Make Ahead Tips
Pumpkin Spice Eggnog can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and just give it a good whisk before serving.
How to Make It
1.Whisk the eggs and sugar
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until smooth and pale yellow. This will take about 1-2 minutes.
2.Heat the milk and spices
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Heat over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until it’s warm but not boiling (about 5 minutes).
3.Temper the egg yolks
Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Then slowly pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly.
4.Cook and thicken
Return the saucepan to medium-low heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Do not let it boil! Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5.Strain and serve
For an extra smooth texture, strain the eggnog through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl. Ladle into mugs, top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, and a cinnamon stick. Serve warm, or chill in the fridge for later!
Leftovers and Storage
Store leftover eggnog in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving, as it might separate slightly. Leftovers are delicious warmed up or served cold!
Wrap-Up
And there you have it—your new favorite holiday drink! This Pumpkin Spice Eggnog is a little bit indulgent, a whole lot festive, and just the thing to make your holidays extra special.
Whether you’re making it for your family or sharing it at a holiday gathering, it’s sure to be a hit.
If you give this recipe a try,
