Deliciously creamy vegan oat milk eggnog - it's the stuff that (vegan) Christmas dreams are made of! This recipe is super simple and all you require is a few simple ingredients and a blender.
Oat nog is such a delicious festive drink, perfect for enjoying any time of day, especially when you serve this creamy, dairy-free drink without alcohol.
Eggnog holds a special place in holiday traditions. I vividly remember it being a staple during Christmas in my family's celebrations. Interestingly, it's a popular treat at every Christmas market in Germany, where I grew up. Friends and neighbours would often gift homemade eggnog during their visits, creating a festive atmosphere.
While I've managed to 'escape' eggnog thus far, I've found the perfect vegan version to share with you today. With its creamy texture and delightful oat milk base, this vegan eggnog recipe is simply a must-have during the holiday season!
This vegan version is super delicious and creamy and so easy to make in your blender - and as it is made with an oat base, it is the ultimate vegan oat nog.
Personally, I choose not to drink alcohol, so this is a non-alcoholic eggnog recipe - but you can definitely serve it with a splash of rum, which would fit perfectly with all the eggnog flavours of this drink!
And as you indulge in this comforting drink, consider also trying a warming cup of this heavenly Hot Chocolate with Cocoa Powder by Wholesome Soulfood Kitchen, which can easily be served vegan by choosing your favorite plant milk. It is made with both cocoa powder and chocolate chips, making it an indulgent treat for the season!
This vegan oat milk eggnog recipe is:
- 100% vegan
- dairy-free
- gluten-free option (replace with gluten-free oat milk or with either almond or coconut)
- raw (if served cold)
- easy to make
- delicious
- deliciously creamy
- Christmassy
- super more-ish
Table of Contents
What is Eggnog?
Eggnog is a sweet, creamy, rich, chilled drink traditionally made with milk, cream, sugar, egg yolk and whipped egg whites, which creates the signature frothy texture.
The History of Eggnog
Eggnog is believed to have originated in Europe, but we cannot be 100% certain. Back in the 13th century medieval British monks were known to drink something called 'posset'. It was a drink that resembled a warm ale punch, made with eggs and figs. It is believed that this tradition merged with other milk and wine punches since the 13th century and became what we know as eggnog today.
Historically it's also known as 'milk punch' or 'egg milk punch'.
Why Traditional Eggnog Isn't Vegan
Before we dive into the oat nog recipe, let's have a look at what goes into traditional eggnog first!
If you've ever been wondering what the ingredients in eggnog are and why the traditional recipe is not vegan, then let me tell you - of course, half of the reason is already in the name. Yes, eggnog does ACTUALLY contain eggs. Don't believe it? Well, you're invited to do your own Google research and convince yourself that egg yolks and egg white are a vital part of a traditional eggnog recipe.
Who would want to drink egg? Yes, that's exactly what I've always thought - even before going fully vegan - and it's probably the main reason why I've never wanted to try it growing up (can't blame me now, huh?).
This vegan eggnog, however, combines all the wonderful things about eggnog without the actual eggs, milk or dairy! Yet it's super creamy, comforting and warming with the addition of smooth oat milk, creamy cashews and warm spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. This oat nog can be served both hot or cold - it's truly delicious in both ways!
Ingredients & Notes
The ingredients for this vegan oat milk eggnog are easy and simple:
- raw cashews - they make our vegan eggnog ultra creamy
- oat milk - I like to make my own homemade oat milk
- maple syrup - for the perfect sweet flavor
- spices - ground nutmeg & cinnamon, plus I like to add ground cloves and vanilla powder (or extract)
- non-alcoholic rum - I used an alcohol-free rum called Rumish. It is a non-alcoholic drink inspired by the flavors of rum and you can get it from Holland & Barrett in the UK. You can use another rum-alternative, actual spiced rum, whiskey or leave it out entirely.
Spices Used in eggnog
Besides the creamy texture, it's the spices used in eggnog that create its distinct flavour and you will be surprised that there are only 2 spice heroes used in traditional eggnog:
- cinnamon
- nutmeg
The additional (and optional) spices come from:
- ground clove
- vanilla bean
The latter I like to use in moderation in this recipe as they can very easily be over-powering the rest of the ingredients. However, with the cinnamon, you are welcome to go all out and adjust to your liking - hence why you will see '1-2 teaspoons' in the recipe ingredients below. I love an extra serving of cinnamon - and even serve my eggnog with extra cinnamon sprinkled on top.
Ingredient Substitutions
In case you don't have any ingredients to hand, here are a few suggestions for substitutions:
- cashews - cashews are the best nuts for the job, as they are naturally creamy and flavor-neutral. I wouldn't recommend replacing them with another nut. If you don't have any unsalted cashews to hand, you can add ½ cup (120 ml) of dairy-free vegan cream to the mix.
- maple syrup - you can also use agave syrup
- oat milk - instead of making your own oat milk upfront, you can add ½ cup oats and 400 ml water to the blender.
- vanilla powder - I love using vanilla powder as it holds the full strength of fresh vanilla flavor. You can substitute the vanilla powder for 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, or add 1 tablespoon of homemade vanilla syrup in place of the vanilla and maple.
Equipment to Make Oat Nog
- high-speed blender - if you're looking for a new blender, let me recommend Greenis. They've got a great range of blenders and by buying through this affiliate link, you support my content!
- nut milk bag - to strain your eggnog through and avoid cashew pieces in your creamy drink
Instructions (Step-by-step)
The creamy base for this vegan eggnog
As I have used oat milk as a base for my eggnog. You could say that the choice of milk already gives it a particular creaminess - however, if you've ever had actual eggnog, you know that oat milk alone isn't going to create the thick creamy texture you're used to. And that's where another fabulous ingredient comes in: cashews!
You might know our little friend 'cashew' from its hits such as 'soak for a minimum of 4-6 hours' or 'soak overnight' - but let me tell you there's a very simple shortcut: Simply cover your cashews in boiling water and let them soak for 20 minutes. BOOM. Soft and ready to move to the next step. You're welcome.
The cashews will create a thick texture and take the creaminess of the drink to the next level - it's like adding homemade cashew cream, but better!
Blending your oat nog
Now that your cashews are nice and soft, add all your ingredients (except the non-alcoholic rum) to your high-speed blender and mix on high for about 5 minutes.
Pro tip: Be sure to use a high-speed blender to blend the softened cashews for this non-alcoholic eggnog as smooth and fine as possible. Of course, if you don't have a high-speed blender then you might still love this recipe but it probably won't be super smooth.
Whether or not you use a high-speed blender, it's vital to strain the eggnog through a fine mesh or (ideally) a nut-milk bag to avoid any remaining nut chunks making their way into your otherwise smooth experience.
Now you've got the base - if you're using the Rumish now is the time to stir it in, but don't worry if you leave it out!
Serving & Storing
Serve your vegan eggnog latte either hot or cold with a sprinkle of cinnamon over the top.
What To Serve With Eggnog
Eggnog pairs wonderfully with a variety of sweet and savory treats! Here are some delicious ideas:
- Cookies - Cinnamon Cookies, festive Vegan Spritz Cookies, fruity Apple Pie Thumbprint Cookies or Mrs Weasley's crunchy Harry Potter Cookies perfectly complement the creamy richness of eggnog!
- Cakes and Pastries - Serve alongside Cinnamon Rolls, Apple Turnover Pastries or Spiced Cakes!
- Savory Snacks - Pair with nuts, (vegan) cheese platters or charcuterie boards to balance the sweetness of eggnog with savory flavors.
- Fruit Dessert - Fresh fruit salads, apple pie or other desserts with apples or berries work really well alongside the creamy texture of eggnog.
- Warm Beverages - You can serve your eggnog alongside hot chocolate, coffee, or tea for a cozy and comforting holiday drink selection!
Storage
You can store this dairy free eggnog in the fridge in a closed container for up to 1 week. Give it a good shake before enjoying this creamy drink from the fridge, as the oat and cashew particles might settle at the bottom of the container.
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Eggnog FAQ
Absolutely! You can freeze eggnog, but it might change the texture slightly when it thaws. The ingredients in eggnog can separate after freezing, so when you thaw it, give it a good stir or shake to remix everything. It's best to consume it within a few weeks after thawing for the tastiest experience. Just remember, the taste might alter a bit, but it's still safe to drink!
In general, Eggnog typically stays fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days, but vegan oat nog might last in the fridge for up to 1 week. It's essential to check the expiry date on the package or the date you made it. Remember, homemade eggnog might have a shorter shelf life compared to store-bought versions. Always use your judgment – if it looks or smells off, it's best to toss it out.
Eggnog can be gluten-free, but it depends on the ingredients used to make it. In this oat nog, you can use gluten-free oats for your homemade oat milk and easily make the recipe gluten-free that way. Traditional eggnog ingredients like eggs, milk, sugar, and spices are typically gluten-free. However, some commercially produced eggnogs or homemade recipes might include additives or flavorings that contain gluten. Always check the label or the recipe's ingredients to ensure it's gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions or gluten sensitivity.
Eggnog has a rich, creamy, and indulgent taste. It often combines sweet, creamy, and slightly spiced flavors. In traditional eggnog, the primary ingredients, such as milk, cream, sugar, and eggs, create a velvety texture with a sweet, custard-like flavor. The addition of warming spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, or vanilla gives it an aromatic quality, adding depth to its taste. Overall, it's a comforting and festive beverage with a unique blend of sweetness and warmth.
Custard and eggnog share a lot of similarities as they both hold a comforting creaminess and rich texture. Both are also often enjoyed during the festive period, so it's only natural to wonder what makes them different.
However, custard is a thick, spoonable dessert traditionally made with milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Eggnog, on the other hand, is a creamy drink made with milk, eggs, sugar, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, and it is sipped rather than eaten with a spoon.
While custard is a dessert staple that can be used all year around, eggnog is a seasonal drink mostly enjoyed during holidays like Christmas and New Year's.
Related Recipes
If you're looking for something exciting and festive to serve with a glass of creamy oat nog, then try this Vegan Cookie Cake with caramel or a delicious Vegan Chocolate Yule Log!
More Delicious Vegan Drinks to Enjoy
📖 Recipe Card
Vegan Oat Milk Eggnog
Equipment
- 1 high-speed blender
- 1 nut milk bag or fine sieve
Ingredients
- ½ cup raw cashews (70 g)
- 1 ¾ cups oat milk (400 ml)
- 3 tablespoon maple syrup (45 ml)
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1-2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch vanilla powder
- 1 pinch ground cloves
- ¼ cup non-alcoholic rum (60 ml) optional
Instructions
- Soak the cashews: In a small bowl cover the cashews with boiling water and set them aside to soak for 20 minutes.
- Add to blender: Add all ingredients (apart from the non-alcoholic rum) to a high-speed blender - alongside the fast-soaked cashews - and blend on high for about 5 minutes until the cashews are completely incorporated.
- Strain: Use a fine mesh (or ideally a nut-milk bag) to strain the nut pulp from the smooth & creamy eggnog.
- Stir in the rum: Stir in the non-alcoholic rum last. (optional)
- Serving: Serve hot or cold, with a sprinkle of cinnamon over the top or keep refrigerated for up to a week.
Video
Notes
- rum - if you would like your oat milk eggnog (vegan) to have an extra kick, you can of course feel free to simply replace the Rumish with actual rum (to your own liking!).
- storage - store this dairy free eggnog in the fridge in a closed container for up to 1 week. Give it a good shake before enjoying this creamy drink from the fridge, as the oat and cashew particles might settle at the bottom of the container.
- cashews - cashews are the best nuts for the job, as they are naturally creamy and flavor-neutral. I wouldn't recommend replacing them with another nut. If you don't have any unsalted cashews to hand, you can add ½ cup (120 ml) of dairy-free vegan cream to the mix.
- maple syrup - you can also use agave syrup
- oat milk - instead of making your own oat milk upfront, you can add ½ cup oats and 400 ml water to the blender.
- vanilla powder - I love using vanilla powder as it holds the full strength of fresh vanilla flavor. You can substitute the vanilla powder for 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, or add 1 tablespoon of homemade vanilla syrup in place of the vanilla and maple.
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