We start craving a bit warmer drinks the moment winter rolls in. Not rushed. Not sharp. Just comforting. That’s where the eggnog latte comes in for us. It’s the drink you sip instead of gulping, usually wrapped in a sweater. Maybe with music playing in the background.
We’ve made this drink more times than we can count, both at home and behind the coffee bar.
Some days it’s part of a quiet morning, other days it’s an evening treat when coffee still sounds good, but plain espresso feels too serious. In this guide, we’re talking through everything about eggnog lattes: from what’s in them to how they taste, how much caffeine they really have, and how to make one that actually feels worth drinking.
No hype, no shortcuts. Just how we make it and why we like it.
What Is an Eggnog Latte Made of?
It is made of espresso and eggnog. Eggnog takes the place of milk in this latte. Rather than adding syrup or fancy flavorings, the eggnog works for you. It’s already creamy. It’s already sweet. And it already carries those familiar winter spices like nutmeg and vanilla. When we make it at home, we keep the ingredient list tight:
- Fresh espresso
- Eggnog: store-bought or homemade
- A pinch of spice on top
That’s it. No need to complicate things, as the beauty of an eggnog latte is how simple it is once you let the eggnog take the lead. Our barista always reminds people that this drink isn’t meant to be overworked.
Does Eggnog Latte Have Alcohol?
No. Eggnog Latte does not contain alcohol. The one used in coffee is alcohol-free, always.
Traditional eggnog recipes include spirits sometimes, but that’s not what goes into lattes. The eggnog used for coffee is made for everyday drinking. You’re not drinking alcohol, even if you’re ordering or just making it at home.
If you’re not sure, just check the carton, as most of the eggnog bought from the store says it’s non-alcoholic. When we make it at home, we skip alcohol completely because it doesn’t belong anywhere near espresso.
Is Eggnog Good in Coffee?
Yes. Eggnog works very well in coffee because it adds richness. It’s creamy and already spiced, which makes it feel made for lattes. We’ve tested plenty of alternatives and creamers over the years, and eggnog always wins in the most natural way. It softens the sharp edges of espresso. Compared to syrups, eggnog feels more rounded. It doesn’t just sweeten, it fills out the drink. One cup feels like a complete experience, not just a caffeine fix, and if you like cozy flavors, then eggnog is a great choice.
How to Make an Eggnog Latte?
Making an eggnog latte at home is easier than most people expect, and once you try it, you’ll probably stop ordering it out:
Ingredients
- 1 cup eggnog
- 1 or 2 shots espresso
- Nutmeg or cinnamon; topping
- a drop of vanilla; optional
How We Make It
- First step is to warm the eggnog slowly in a saucepan, and you want steam, not bubbles
- Then, brew espresso directly into a mug, and pour the eggnog over the espresso and mix
- At last, top with a bit of nutmeg or cinnamon
Froth the eggnog before pouring. That little foam changes the whole feel.
Our barista tip: If it is thick, then add a splash of milk or water before heating, as it keeps the texture smooth.
Eggnog Latte Calories
Eggnog latte is known for being heavy. But the numbers are reasonable when you make it at home. Most of the calories come from the eggnog; espresso adds almost nothing:
Homemade Eggnog Latte Calories
| Ingredient | Calories |
| Eggnog 1 cup | 180 |
| Espresso 2 shots | 5 |
| Spices | 0 |
| Total | 185 calories |
If you use low-fat eggnog or a dairy-free version, this drops noticeably. We’ve also made versions closer to 120 calories.
Eggnog Latte Caffeine
It gets all the caffeine only from espresso, not the eggnog:
- 1 shot espresso: ~63 mg caffeine
- 2 shots espresso: ~125 mg caffeine
Most of us on the team prefer two shots because the eggnog is rich and can mute weaker coffee. If you’re drinking this later in the day, one shot is still enough to give you flavor without keeping you awake all night.
Our barista often suggests using a medium roast for this drink. Too dark, and it fights the eggnog. Too light and it disappears.
Barista Tips for a Perfect Eggnog Latte
A few different choices make a big difference:
- Heat eggnog gently. Overheating ruins the texture.
- Brew espresso fresh. Old coffee tastes flat in creamy drinks.
- Don’t oversweeten. Eggnog already does that job.
- Add spice at the end for better aroma.
One more tip we swear by: always taste before adjusting. Eggnog brands vary, as some are thicker while others are sweeter yet heavier.
Tips for Ideal Pairings
Since the drink itself is rich, lighter snacks work better. We usually reach for:
- Shortbread cookies
- Gingerbread
- Butter biscuits
- Plain croissants
If you’re having it in the evening, even a slice of toast with honey works beautifully. The goal isn’t to overwhelm; it’s to relax.
FAQs
What Is an Eggnog Latte at Starbucks?
At Starbucks, it’s an espresso drink made of eggnog along with milk, and nutmeg. It’s close to a homemade version but is normally sweeter.
Is Eggnog Latte Alcoholic?
No. Eggnog lattes that we get in cafés are not alcoholic.
Is Eggnog Latte Halal?
Yes, as long as the eggnog used is alcohol-free: standard for commercial eggnog.
How Does Eggnog Latte Taste?
It is creamy yet spiced lightly, and the coffee balances everything so it doesn’t feel heavy.
Is an Eggnog Latte All Eggnog?
No. It’s a blend of espresso along with eggnog. Some versions include a little milk, but coffee is always part of the drink.
Final Sip
For us, the eggnog latte isn’t about trends or seasons on a calendar. It’s about slowing down with something warm in your hands. It’s familiar and easy to make. If it makes you pause and smile, you made it right.
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