There are some cocktails that instantly feel like the holidays, and this eggnog White Russian is one of them. It’s rich, cozy, and just indulgent enough to feel special, without being complicated or fussy. If you love classic White Russians, coffee cocktails, or eggnog drinks during the winter season, this one checks all the boxes.
This is the kind of holiday cocktail you make when you want something comforting and festive, whether you’re hosting friends, sitting by the tree, or winding down after Christmas dinner. It has that familiar coffee flavor from the White Russian, but the eggnog adds warmth, spice, and a creamy texture that makes it perfect for winter.
If you’re looking for a Christmas cocktail that feels grown up, cozy, and easy to make at home, this eggnog White Russian deserves a spot on your list.
Why You’ll Love This Eggnog White Russian
This cocktail works because it blends two classics into one smooth drink. The coffee notes from the traditional White Russian pair beautifully with the creamy, spiced flavor of eggnog. You get hints of vanilla, nutmeg, and warm dairy without losing that coffee-forward taste.
What I love most about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can make it stronger or lighter, sweeter or more coffee-forward, depending on your mood. It also feels fancy enough for guests, even though it only takes a few minutes to make. This is one of those winter cocktails that feels like dessert and drink all in one.
A Cozy Winter Coffee Cocktail for the Holidays
Eggnog is usually saved for the holidays, which is exactly why this drink feels so special. When you swap out the cream or milk in a classic White Russian and use eggnog instead, the whole cocktail becomes more festive.
This makes it a great Christmas dinner cocktail or an after-dinner drink when you want something smooth and comforting. It’s especially nice if you’re serving dessert or sitting down to relax after a busy holiday day.
Because it’s served over ice, it’s not heavy or hot, but it still feels rich and warming thanks to the eggnog and coffee flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This eggnog White Russian uses simple ingredients that are easy to find during the holiday season. You probably already have most of them on hand if you enjoy making cocktails at home.
You’ll need vodka as the base spirit, coffee liqueur for that signature White Russian flavor, and eggnog to replace the usual cream. Ice is essential to keep the drink chilled and balanced.
For garnish, freshly grated nutmeg, cinnamon, or even a light dusting of cocoa powder adds a festive touch. You can also use a cinnamon stick or chocolate shavings if you want it to feel extra special.
What Makes Eggnog Work So Well in This Cocktail
Eggnog already has built-in flavor from spices like nutmeg and vanilla, which makes it perfect for cocktails. When paired with coffee liqueur, it creates a smooth, slightly sweet drink that doesn’t need much extra work.
As the ice slowly melts, the flavors mellow and blend together. Each sip becomes a little lighter and smoother, which makes this a great cocktail to sip slowly. It’s rich at first, then softens as you go, which is exactly what you want in a holiday coffee cocktail.
Easy Ways to Customize This Eggnog White Russian
One of the best things about this drink is how easy it is to adjust.
If you like a stronger coffee flavor, you can add a bit more coffee liqueur. If you prefer it creamier and sweeter, add a splash more eggnog. You can also adjust the vodka to make it lighter or stronger depending on who you’re serving.
For extra holiday flavor, a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon goes a long way. Chocolate lovers can drizzle a little chocolate syrup inside the glass before adding the ice for a dessert-style twist.
These small changes let you make the drink your own without changing the overall feel of the cocktail.
When to Serve an Eggnog White Russian
This cocktail fits perfectly into many winter moments:
- After Christmas dinner as a dessert cocktail
- During holiday parties when you want something creamy and cozy
- On cold winter nights when you’re craving a coffee cocktail
- As a festive alternative to traditional eggnog drinks
It’s especially great if you’re hosting and want a drink that feels indulgent but doesn’t require a full bar setup.
Make-Ahead and Entertaining Tips
While this cocktail is best made fresh over ice, you can prep parts of it ahead of time. Measuring out the vodka and coffee liqueur in advance makes assembly quick and easy when guests arrive.
Keep your eggnog chilled, and have garnishes ready so you can build each drink in seconds. This makes it much easier to serve during busy holiday gatherings without feeling rushed.
Eggnog White Russian Cocktail Recipe
A creamy and cozy eggnog White Russian cocktail made with vodka, coffee liqueur, and eggnog. This easy winter coffee cocktail is perfect for holiday parties, Christmas dinner, or a festive night in.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur
- 2 to 3 oz eggnog
- Ice
- Optional Garnishes
- Freshly grated nutmeg
- Ground cinnamon or cocoa powder
- Cinnamon stick or chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Fill a rocks glass with ice.
- Pour the vodka and coffee liqueur over the ice.
- Add eggnog and gently stir to combine.
- Garnish with nutmeg, cinnamon, or chocolate if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 1 Serving Size: 1 cocktailAmount Per Serving: Calories: 290Total Fat: 7gCarbohydrates: 15gSugar: 12gProtein: 3g
Nutrition values are estimates only and may vary depending on the brands and quantities used.
Paula studied architecture and now makes a living as a freelance writer,traveler and amateur photographer.She started her writing & publishing career as the editor of Bebé y Mamá, the first parenting magazine in Guatemala.She is the founder of www.GrowingUpBilingual.com and www.365thingsswfl.com and writes articles in Spanish and English for both magazines and the web on travel,food and bicultural and bilingual parenting .
When she is not on a plane or road trip she likes to create recipes inspired in the flavors of her native Guatemala.
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