Festive Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Vanilla‑Spiced ‘Nog’
Warm, creamy, and lightly spiced, this vanilla‑spiced ‘nog’ is a cozy, alcohol‑free treat for quiet holiday evenings. It’s easy on the stomach, gentle in texture, and made in a small batch for one or two.
Below are a simple eggless recipe and dairy‑free alternatives so you can choose what feels best for your digestion and taste.
Making one or two servings means less waste and fewer pots to wash. The steps are short and forgiving. You’ll whisk, warm, and serve — no fussy techniques.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup milk (dairy, oat, or unsweetened almond)
- 2 tablespoons canned coconut milk or 2 tablespoons half‑and‑half for creaminess
- 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey, or sugar, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg, plus extra for garnish
- Pinch ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold milk (slurry) — optional for slight thickening
- Pinch of salt
- Optional garnish: a small dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of extra nutmeg
You can serve this creamy ‘nog’ with a small soft cookie, a spoonful of applesauce, or warm soft bread if you like.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- In a small saucepan, combine the milk, coconut milk or half‑and‑half, maple syrup, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Stir the cornstarch slurry again and add it to the cold mixture if you want a slightly thicker, velvet texture.
- Warm the mixture over medium‑low heat, stirring often, until it just begins to steam and thicken slightly; do not boil.
- Taste and adjust sweetness, then remove from heat and let sit a minute to cool to a comfortable drinking temperature.
- Pour into one or two small mugs and garnish with a light dusting of nutmeg and a small spoon of whipped cream if you like.
Tips and Easy Variations
Keep it silky
- Strain the warm mixture through a fine sieve to remove any tiny lumps from spices or thickener.
- Use the cornstarch slurry sparingly for a smooth, velvet texture.
- Whisk while reheating to restore silkiness if it thickens in the fridge.
Make it lighter for digestion
- Use low‑fat or lactose‑free milk and reduce the coconut milk for a gentler drink.
- Choose oat or almond milk plus canned coconut milk to keep it fully dairy‑free.
- Reduce the sweetener or use a small amount of a sugar substitute if advised by your doctor.
Festive twists
- Try a chai twist with 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom and a pinch of black pepper for warmth.
- Cool completely and chill for a cold version; serve over ice with a splash of milk.
- Pair with a soft dessert such as a gentle mango coconut rice pudding for a comforting combo.
Quick serving ideas
- Serve with a soft cookie or warm bread for a gentle snack.
- Garnish with whipped cream and a dusting of nutmeg for a festive touch.
- Adjust sweetness to taste and keep spices light for comfort.
Storage and Leftovers
Fridge
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 48 hours.
Freezer
Freezing is not recommended for best texture, but you can freeze for up to one month; thaw and whisk well before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring so the drink returns to a smooth texture. If thickened, whisk in a tablespoon of milk while warming.
Conclusion
Give this vanilla‑spiced ‘nog’ a try for calm, festive nights. It’s simple, gentle, and made in a small batch so you can enjoy a cozy drink without fuss.
These festive non-alcoholic drinks are easy to tweak for digestion and portion size, making them perfect for quiet holiday evenings.
FAQ
Can I use raw eggs for a traditional nog?▶
This recipe is eggless for ease and food safety. If you prefer egg yolks, use pasteurized eggs and cook the custard to 160°F to ensure safety.
How can I make it less sweet?▶
Reduce the maple syrup or sugar to taste. Try 1/2 teaspoon or a preferred sugar substitute if you need to lower sugar for health reasons.
