Name: Creamy Vegan Almond Eggnog
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 min
Ingredients: 3 cups unsweetened almond milk; 1/2 cup raw cashews (soaked if needed); 4–5 Medjool dates (pitted) or 3 tbsp maple syrup; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/8 tsp ground cloves (optional); 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1 pinch sea salt; 1 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder (optional, for thickness); 1–2 oz dark rum or bourbon (optional, for adult version)

Warm up your holidays with this creamy, dairy-free Vegan Almond Eggnog — the perfect plant-based twist on a traditional favorite. This delightful beverage is a rich and comforting drink, making it an ideal choice for festive gatherings and cozy nights in. What makes this vegan eggnog truly special is its wholesome ingredients, which include smooth almond milk, rich cashews, and a blend of cozy spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Not only does it taste incredible, but it also caters to various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy a sip during the holiday season.

This vegan almond eggnog is not just about indulgence; it’s also an easy recipe that comes together in just around 12 minutes. With its naturally sweetened flavor profile, this drink is perfect for those seeking healthier alternatives during the holidays. Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for a delightful treat to enjoy at home, this eggnog stands out as a must-try. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a creamy concoction that tastes just as good as the classic version but without any dairy products.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Almond Eggnog

Creamy and Rich: The combination of almond milk and cashews gives this eggnog a luxurious texture without any dairy.
Quick and Easy: With only a few simple steps and ingredients, you can whip this up in no time, making it a great choice for last-minute holiday gatherings.
Customizable: Adjust the sweetness and spice levels to match your personal taste, making it uniquely yours.
Healthier Alternative: Naturally sweetened and vegan, this eggnog allows you to indulge without guilt.
Festive Flavor: The warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves evoke the true spirit of the season.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into making this delightful vegan almond eggnog, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by soaking your cashews in warm water for about 15–20 minutes if you’re not using a high-speed blender; this step is crucial for achieving a creamy texture. While your cashews are soaking, gather your ingredients including unsweetened almond milk, Medjool dates or maple syrup, and spices.

You’ll also need a blender for mixing your ingredients thoroughly. A fine-mesh sieve or nut milk bag will come in handy if you prefer a smoother texture for your eggnog. Finally, have a saucepan ready on the stovetop to gently heat the mixture. Setting up your workspace efficiently will help streamline the cooking process and ensure a successful preparation.

Ingredients

3 cups unsweetened almond milk
1/2 cup raw cashews (soaked if needed)
4–5 Medjool dates (pitted) or 3 tbsp maple syrup
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/8 tsp ground cloves (optional)
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 pinch sea salt
1 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder (optional, for thickness)
1–2 oz dark rum or bourbon (optional, for adult version)

Instructions

Step 1: Soak the Cashews

Start by soaking your raw cashews in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes. If you’re using a high-speed blender, soaking may not be necessary; however, soaking helps in achieving a much smoother and creamier consistency, especially if using a standard blender. Ensure that the cashews are soft before using them in your mixture.

Step 2: Blend the Ingredients

Once your cashews have soaked, drain and rinse them. In a blender, combine the almond milk, soaked cashews, Medjool dates or maple syrup, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves (if using), vanilla extract, salt, and cornstarch or arrowroot powder (if desired for thickness). Blend the mixture on high until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. Make sure there are no lumps left from the cashews or dates.

Step 3: Heat the Mixture

Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan and place it over medium-low heat. Gently warm the eggnog for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently. It’s essential not to let the mixture boil as this can affect the texture and flavor. After heating, you may opt to strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or nut milk bag for an ultra-smooth finish.

Step 4: Chill or Serve Warm

Once heated, you can either serve the vegan almond eggnog warm or chill it in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 hours for a refreshing cold version. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg and perhaps a cinnamon stick for that extra holiday touch. If desired, feel free to add a splash of dark rum or bourbon for an adult twist.

Variations

Protein: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to enhance the nutritional profile.
Vegetables: Blend in a handful of spinach for added nutrition without altering the flavor too much.
Spices: Experiment with different spices like ginger or cardamom to create your own unique flavor!

Cooking Notes

Ensure that you soak cashews if not using a high-speed blender to achieve the best creamy texture.
For a thicker eggnog, use cornstarch or arrowroot and ensure it’s well-mixed before heating.
If your cashews are still too firm, consider extending the soaking time until they soften adequately.
Avoid boiling the eggnog as this lets flavors develop without affecting the creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot in mugs with a sprinkle of cinnamon as a cozy holiday drink.
For cold servings, pour into glasses filled with ice for a cool, refreshing treat.

Tips

Adjust the sweetness by adding more dates or maple syrup according to your preference.
For a thicker consistency, blend in more soaked cashews or a banana for added creaminess.
To enhance flavor complexity, let the eggnog sit for a while to allow the spices to meld together.
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 12 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 200
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 130mg

FAQs

Can I make this eggnog without cashews?

Yes! You can replace cashews with soaked silken tofu for a similar creamy texture.

How long does vegan almond eggnog last in the fridge?

It can last in the fridge for up to three days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I use other types of milk?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute almond milk with oat or coconut milk for a richer flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this vegan almond eggnog is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

This Vegan Almond Eggnog is not just a drink; it’s a delightful experience that encapsulates the warmth and joy of the holiday season. Its creamy texture, rich flavors, and festive spices make it a perfect beverage for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating with friends or enjoying a quiet evening at home. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and whip up this tasty, plant-based eggnog that everyone will love. Don’t forget to share your variations and experiences in the comments below; we’d love to hear from you! Cheers to a cozy holiday with this vegan twist on a classic favorite!