How to Make Eggnog | HUM Nutrition Blog

Want to indulge in the holiday season’s most popular drink without the guilt? We’re breaking down three healthy eggnog recipes. Here is how to make eggnog –the healthier kind!

There’s nothing like the nostalgic feeling of sipping on a glass of eggnog by the fire, surrounded by the glint twinkling lights and the intoxicating scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the air. But as much as we love this creamy, spiced beverage, traditional eggnog can sometimes be a bit heavy on sugar and dairy. So, why not enjoy all the nostalgia of this beloved holiday drink—with a healthier twist?

We’ve created three healthier eggnog recipes that give you all the festive flavor without the guilt. Whether you’re looking for a lighter version of the classic, a vegan alternative, or a dairy-free option with a tropical twist, these recipes let you customize the sweetness and ingredients so you can still enjoy the holidays your way. Plus, you can add a HUM twist with our Flatter Me and Ashwagandha Calm supplements that guarantee better digestion and relaxation as you sip!

How to Make Eggnog: 3 Recipes Perfect for a Cozy and Healthy Holiday

Recipe #1: Classic Healthier Eggnog Recipe (serves 4)

This recipe provides a lighter, healthier version of the classic. It substitutes heavier milk or cream with 1% milk and a natural sweetener while keeping the recipe creamy with its use of egg yolks, which pack protein into every sip.

Ingredients:

• 4 Egg yolks
• 3 cups 1% Milk
• ½ cup Honey
• 1 tsp. Vanilla
• 1 tsp. Nutmeg
• ½ tsp. Cinnamon
• ¼ tsp. Allspice

Instructions:

1. Use a hand whisk to beat the egg yolks in a medium mixing bowl until fully combined.
2. Combine the milk and honey in a medium saucepan, stirring frequently over medium heat, and heat until the milk is warm but not boiling—about 5-7 minutes.
3. To avoid scrambling the eggs, you need to temper them. Slowly pour a small amount of the warm milk into the beaten egg yolks while whisking constantly. Gradually add more milk, whisking as you go, until about half the milk mixture has been incorporated.
4. Slowly pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining warm milk, whisking to combine. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Be careful not to let it boil.
5. Once the eggnog has thickened, remove it from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and ground nutmeg.
6. Allow the eggnog to cool at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 1-2 hours. It will thicken further as it cools.
7. Once chilled, give the eggnog a good stir. Pour into glasses and garnish with an extra sprinkle of nutmeg if desired.

Health Benefits:

• Honey: Using honey instead of refined sugar reduces the sugar content and provides a natural sweetness with a lower glycemic index, along with antioxidants that support immunity.
• 1% Milk: Lowers fat while maintaining creaminess, making this eggnog lighter without sacrificing flavor.
• Spices: Nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves offer additional antioxidants and digestive benefits, helping soothe the stomach, especially after eating a heavy meal.

Recipe #2: Vegan Almond-Cashew Eggnog (serves 6)

This homemade recipe uses a naturally sweet, creamy vegan blend of ingredients to make the perfect holiday beverage. 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Cashews
• 3 cups Almond Milk
• ½ cup Maple syrup
• 1 tsp. Vanilla
• 1 tsp. Nutmeg
• ½ tsp. Cinnamon

Instructions:

1. The first step in making eggnog with cashews is to soak them. Place the cashews in a bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak for at least 4 hours or overnight. If you’re in a rush, you can soak them in hot water for 30 minutes to an hour to soften them more quickly.
2. Drain and rinse the soaked cashews. Place them in a high-speed blender along with the almond milk. Blend on high until smooth and creamy. This should take about 1-2 minutes, depending on your blender.
3. Add the maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, and cinnamon to the blender. Blend again for 30 seconds until all ingredients are fully incorporated, and the eggnog is smooth.
4. Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat. Stir frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Heat for about 5-7 minutes or until the eggnog is warmed. Be careful not to bring it to a boil.
5. Once the eggnog is heated, taste it and adjust the sweetness or spices as needed. If you prefer a sweeter eggnog, you can add a bit more maple syrup or cinnamon.
6. Pour the eggnog into glasses and sprinkle a little extra nutmeg or cinnamon on top for garnish if desired.

Health Benefits:

• Cashews: A great source of healthy fats and protein, cashews provide a creamy texture without the need for dairy, making this eggnog both light and satisfying.
• Maple Syrup: Offers a natural sweetness that doesn’t cause blood sugar spikes, making it a healthier alternative to refined sugars.
• Dairy-Free: Ideal for those with lactose intolerance or following a vegan diet, this recipe is free from dairy while still offering a rich, creamy texture.

Recipe #3: Vegan Coconut Eggnog with a Tropical Twist (Serves 6)

This vegan coconut eggnog brings a tropical twist to the classic holiday drink by using coconut cream as a rich, dairy-free alternative. The combination of coconut milk and cream creates a creamy base with a naturally sweet flavor, requiring less added sugar while still providing the indulgent richness you love.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups Cashew-Coconut Milk (or other dairy-free milk of choice)
• One 14-oz can of Coconut Cream
• ⅓ cup Maple Syrup
• ½ tsp Ground Cinnamon
• ¼ tsp Ground Cloves
• 1 tsp Ground Nutmeg
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cashew-coconut milk (or your preferred dairy-free milk) with the entire 14-oz can of coconut cream. Stir well to blend the ingredients.
2. Add the maple syrup, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg to the saucepan, stirring to incorporate.
3. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Warm for 5-7 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t boil.
4. Once the eggnog is warm and well-mixed, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Taste and adjust the flavor, adding extra cinnamon or cloves for more spice if desired.
6. Pour the eggnog into glasses and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg before serving.

Health Benefits:

• Coconut Cream: Coconut cream is a great source of healthy fats, including medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can provide quick energy and support brain health. It also brings a natural sweetness to the eggnog, allowing you to use less added sugar, making this a lower-sugar option.
• Coconut: Both coconut milk and coconut cream are packed with antioxidants, vitamins (like vitamins C and E), and minerals (like magnesium), which help support your immune system and skin health.

How to Make EggnoG FAQs:

1. What’s the healthiest way to enjoy eggnog?

To make eggnog healthier, opt for dairy-free milk like almond or coconut milk and natural sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar. Beware, not all non-dairy milks are healthy. Take caution and read the labels to make sure you are buying the most clean and less-processed version. You can also reduce the sugar content by using more spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to enhance flavor.

2. Can you make eggnog in advance?

Yes! Homemade eggnog can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving, as it may separate slightly over time.

3. What spices are best for eggnog?

The classic nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves are essential, but feel free to experiment with other spices like ginger or allspice for a unique twist.

4. How can I make eggnog even lower in calories?

You can reduce calories by cutting back on the sweetener (use less maple syrup or opt for a zero-calorie sweetener like stevia) and using a low-fat dairy-free milk like unsweetened almond milk.

5. What supplements should I take with my eggnog for extra relaxation and gut health benefits?

Incorporating HUM’s Flatter Me supplement to help with digestion and reduce bloating, while our Ashwagandha Calm supports relaxation and stress relief after a cozy cup of eggnog.

Flatter Me supports gut health with its blend of 18 digestive enzymes, helping break down all foods—carbs, proteins, fats, sugars, lactose, and fiber. It also helps relieve common digestive discomforts like bloating and indigestion and supports nutrient absorption for overall healthy digestion.

Ashwagandha Calm is our go-to for relaxation, thanks to its main ingredient, Sensoril® a potent extract that uses both the root and leaf of ashwagandha for double the strength. It also contains L-theanine, promoting relaxation without causing drowsiness. Together, these ingredients help reduce stress, improve relaxation, and support healthy cortisol levels for a calm mind and body.

Don’t sacrifice flavor or tradition this holiday season to enjoy a healthier version of eggnog. Whether you prefer the classic, a vegan alternative, or a tropical coconut twist, each recipe offers a lighter, guilt-free way to continue indulging around the festivities.

The Takeaway on How to Make Eggnog (the Healthy Kind)

Try out all three eggnog recipes, and let us know which is your favorite. Don’t forget to share your own eggnog creations and make sure to subscribe for more healthy holiday recipes to keep you feeling good all season long!

Happy holidays and happy sipping!