Eggnog Latte Starbucks Recipe [+Tips]

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Oh, the Eggnog Latte from Starbucks – it’s basically like a warm, festive hug in a cup! If you’ve ever wandered into Starbucks during the holiday season and felt that magical aroma of nutmeg and cinnamon mingling with the deep, robust scent of espresso, you know exactly what I’m talking about. This seasonal superstar is a beautiful blend of creamy eggnog and bold espresso, topped with a sprinkle of spice that instantly transports you to cozy winter mornings or holiday gatherings.

The best part? You don’t have to wait in line at Starbucks to enjoy it. With a little kitchen wizardry, you can whip up your very own Eggnog Latte at home – tailor it exactly how you like it, maybe a tad sweeter, or a bit stronger on the espresso, and even make it vegan if that’s your vibe. I’ll walk you through everything step by step, share expert tips, and throw in some fun twists you might never have thought of!

Ingredients For Eggnog Latte Starbucks Recipe

Now, the beauty of the Eggnog Latte is in its simplicity, but with a few quality ingredients that really make the flavors sing. Here’s what you need:

  • Espresso (or strong brewed coffee):

    • Starbucks uses their signature espresso shots, but you can use any espresso or a strong brew of coffee if you don’t have an espresso machine.
  • Eggnog (the star of the show!):

    • Traditional eggnog is rich and creamy with a blend of eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon.
    • You can find it pre-made in most grocery stores during the holidays or make your own from scratch if you’re feeling ambitious.
  • Milk (optional, but helps create that silky smooth texture):

    • Whole milk is best for creaminess, but almond, oat, or soy milk works well too if you want a dairy-free option.
  • Sweetener (optional):

    • Depending on your taste and the eggnog brand, you might want to add a touch of sugar, maple syrup, or vanilla syrup.
  • Ground nutmeg and cinnamon (for garnish and extra flavor punch):

    • Freshly grated nutmeg is a game-changer here.
    • You’ll sprinkle this on top at the end for that iconic look and aroma.
  • Whipped cream (optional, but oh so festive):

    • Because why not add a little cloud of creamy indulgence on top?
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How To Make Eggnog Latte Starbucks?

Alright, time to get our hands cozy and craft this little piece of holiday magic!

  1. Brew Your Espresso Or Strong Coffee

    • Pull 1-2 shots of espresso using your machine.
    • If you don’t have espresso, brew about ½ cup of strong coffee – think French press or a dark roast drip.
  2. Heat And Froth The Eggnog

    • Pour 1 cup of eggnog into a small saucepan and warm it over medium-low heat.
    • Heat gently until it’s steaming but not boiling – you want it hot but not curdled!
    • Froth the eggnog if you can (a milk frother works wonders here) to get that luscious, foamy texture.
  3. Combine Espresso And Eggnog

    • Pour the warm espresso into your favorite mug.
    • Slowly add the hot, frothed eggnog, giving it a little stir to blend the flavors perfectly.
  4. Add Milk (Optional)

    • If you want a lighter latte, steam or froth about ¼ cup of milk and gently layer it on top.
  5. Garnish With Spices And Whipped Cream

    • Top your latte with a generous swirl of whipped cream (if using).
    • Dust with freshly grated nutmeg and a sprinkle of cinnamon for that festive finish.
  6. Enjoy Immediately

    • Sip and savor your homemade Starbucks-level eggnog latte while basking in the holiday vibes.

Expert Tips

Want to make your Eggnog Latte next-level? Here are some pro secrets:

  • Use Freshly Ground Espresso Beans: The fresher, the better. It makes all the difference in the taste and aroma.
  • Warm, Don’t Boil Your Eggnog: Boiling can cause the eggnog to curdle – keep the heat gentle to maintain that silky texture.
  • Froth Eggnog Like a Pro: Eggnog has fat and sugar, so it froths differently than milk. Use a handheld frother or whisk vigorously by hand.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the espresso before combining to infuse more flavor.
  • Customize Sweetness: Taste before adding any sweetener – some eggnogs are already quite sweet.
  • Experiment with Alcohol: For an adult twist, add a splash of bourbon, rum, or brandy to your latte.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun ways to switch it up:

  • Vegan Eggnog Latte: Use a dairy-free eggnog alternative made from almond or oat milk and pair it with your favorite plant-based espresso milk.
  • Pumpkin Spice Eggnog Latte: Add a teaspoon of pumpkin spice mix into the eggnog before heating.
  • Caramel Eggnog Latte: Drizzle caramel sauce inside your mug before pouring the espresso and eggnog for a sticky sweet surprise.
  • Spiced Up Latte: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or ground cloves to your nutmeg topping for a subtle spicy kick.
  • Iced Eggnog Latte: Perfect for warmer holiday days – brew espresso, chill, then pour over ice and top with cold eggnog and whipped cream.

Final Words

Making an Eggnog Latte at home isn’t just about the drink – it’s about creating a cozy, festive experience. The aroma of warm spices, the creamy richness of eggnog, and the deep espresso pull together into a sensory celebration that feels like a mini holiday party in a mug. Whether you’re crafting one for yourself on a chilly morning or sharing with friends during the season, it’s a delicious reminder of why we love holiday traditions.

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FAQs

What Is An Eggnog Latte At Starbucks?

An eggnog latte at Starbucks is a holiday-inspired drink made by combining espresso, steamed eggnog, and a sprinkle of nutmeg. It’s a seasonal favorite, typically offered during the winter months.

Can I Make A Starbucks-style Eggnog Latte At Home?

Yes! To make a Starbucks-style eggnog latte at home, brew some espresso or strong coffee, steam eggnog, and combine them in a cup. Optionally, you can add a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon for extra flavor.

Is Eggnog Available Year-round At Starbucks?

No, eggnog is a seasonal item at Starbucks, typically available from November through January. It’s part of their winter holiday menu.

Can I Substitute Milk For Eggnog In An Eggnog Latte?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk for eggnog in an eggnog latte, but the flavor will be less rich and festive. Eggnog adds a creamy, spiced flavor that milk cannot replicate.

What Kind Of Eggnog Does Starbucks Use In Their Eggnog Lattes?

Starbucks uses a dairy-based eggnog made with milk, cream, eggs, sugar, and spices, though the exact brand may vary by location. They also offer a non-dairy version during the holidays, but availability may vary.

Can I Make An Iced Eggnog Latte At Starbucks?

Yes, you can request an iced eggnog latte at Starbucks by asking for iced espresso, cold eggnog, and ice. It’s a great option for those who want a colder variation of the holiday drink.

Does The Eggnog Latte Have Caffeine?

Yes, the eggnog latte contains espresso, which is a source of caffeine. The caffeine content can be adjusted by ordering a decaf espresso or choosing a different espresso shot size.

Is The Eggnog Latte Sweetened?

Yes, the eggnog used in a Starbucks eggnog latte is already sweetened, so the drink is naturally sweet. However, you can ask for less syrup or a sugar-free version if you prefer a less sweet taste.

Can I Customize My Eggnog Latte With Flavors Or Toppings?

Yes, you can customize your eggnog latte with various flavors and toppings. Popular options include adding cinnamon, caramel syrup, or whipped cream. You can also adjust the milk or espresso type.

How Many Calories Are In A Starbucks Eggnog Latte?

A standard 16-ounce (Grande) eggnog latte at Starbucks contains approximately 400-450 calories, depending on the milk and size you choose. Using non-fat milk or a smaller size can reduce the calorie count.