Nutella Eggnog: A Decadent Holiday Twist on Tradition
Velvety custard meets warming spice and rich chocolate in a holiday drink to remember.
There’s nothing quite like a cozy mug of eggnog to usher in the holiday spirit, but imagine taking this creamy classic to new heights with the luxurious swirl of Nutella and toasted hazelnuts. This Nutella Eggnog is a sensational reinvention of the nostalgic favorite, blending the unmistakable flavors of hazelnut-chocolate spread, creamy dairy, and rich dark rum for a festive drink that’s celebratory, sophisticated, and wildly indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a winter party or treating yourself by the fire, this recipe will quickly become a seasonal tradition in your kitchen.
Why Nutella in Eggnog?
Classic eggnog is beloved for its velvety texture and warming notes of nutmeg, but its rich dairy and egg base are also an excellent canvas for bolder flavors. Adding Nutella to eggnog infuses the drink with a deep, toasty hazelnut essence and chocolatey undertones, elevating it beyond the basic and making it irresistibly festive.
- Flavor fusion: The combination of Nutella and eggnog is more than the sum of its parts—Nutella’s cocoa-hazelnut complexity melts seamlessly into the traditional vanilla custard profile.
- Textural luxury: Nutella’s creamy consistency makes the drink silkier and adds a pleasing mouthfeel.
- Versatility: Nutella Eggnog can be served chilled over ice, slightly warmed, or even as the base for dessert cocktails.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
To create Nutella Eggnog, you’ll need a short list of quality ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of each, with suggestions for variations:
| Ingredient | Purpose | Possible Substitutes |
|---|---|---|
| Egg Yolks | Provide richness and create a custard-like base. | Pasteurized eggs if concerns about raw eggs. |
| Sugar | Balances the richness and adds sweetness. | Maple syrup or honey for warmth. |
| Nutella | Main flavoring, provides hazelnut and chocolate notes. | Homemade chocolate-hazelnut spread. |
| Whole Milk & Heavy Cream | Create a creamy, smooth texture. | Half-and-half, or non-dairy milks and coconut cream for a dairy-free version. |
| Dark Rum | Adds depth and complexity. | Brandy or whiskey. Omit for a non-alcoholic option. |
| Toasted Hazelnuts | Layered on top for crunch and aroma. | Chopped pecans, almonds, or omitted. |
| Fresh Nutmeg | Classic garnish, providing subtle spice. | Ground nutmeg, cinnamon, or allspice. |
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Nutella Eggnog
This recipe makes a generous batch, perfect for gatherings. It can be halved or doubled as needed. You’ll be using raw eggs, so pasteurized eggs are recommended, or you may opt for a cooked custard version for safety (see the FAQ section).
Ingredients
- 8 large eggs, separated
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup Nutella (chocolate-hazelnut spread)
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups dark rum (adjust to taste, or substitute with other spirits or omit for non-alcoholic)
- 1 cup toasted hazelnuts, roughly crushed
- Fresh nutmeg (for garnishing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Egg Yolks: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture is thick, pale, and forms ribbons when the whisk is lifted. This ensures your egg base is creamy and well-blended.
- Incorporate the Nutella: Gradually whisk the Nutella into the egg yolk mixture, stirring until smooth and fully incorporated. It may help to warm the Nutella slightly to ease mixing.
- Add Dairy: Slowly add the milk and heavy cream to the Nutella-egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. This forms the custardy base for your eggnog.
- Introduce the Alcohol: Stir in the dark rum. If you prefer a lighter drink, reduce the amount, or substitute with brandy, whiskey, or omit entirely for a family-friendly version.
- Whip the Egg Whites: In a clean separate bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form, then gently fold them into the custard base. This gives the eggnog its signature light, frothy body.
- Chill: For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the eggnog for several hours or overnight before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly.
- Serve: Pour the chilled eggnog into cups or mugs. Top each serving with a spoonful of crushed toasted hazelnuts and a dusting of freshly grated nutmeg.
Tips for the Perfect Nutella Eggnog
- Use fresh, high-quality eggs for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
- Warm your Nutella: If Nutella is too thick, microwave it in short bursts and stir until pourable. This helps blend it smoothly into the egg mixture.
- Don’t overbeat egg whites: Soft peaks are perfect; over-beaten whites can make the drink grainy.
- Customize your spirit: If dark rum isn’t your favorite, try bourbon, cognac, or hazelnut liqueur for a deeper nutty profile.
- Chill completely: Eggnog improves after several hours in the fridge, so prepare it ahead of your gathering for maximum flavor.
- Batch size: The recipe is easily halved or doubled. Make what suits the size of your holiday celebration.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Nutella Eggnog is the star of any dessert table, but it pairs especially well with simple, buttery treats that don’t compete with its bold flavors.
- Serve with shortbread or sugar cookies for a nostalgic, comforting dessert course.
- Pair with spiced holiday breads or panettone for an Italian-inspired indulgence.
- For an adult-friendly twist, float a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of hazelnut gelato onto each glass.
- Warm Nutella Eggnog gently and top with marshmallows for a cozy fireside treat.
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Make-Ahead, Storage, and Safety
- Make-ahead: Nutella Eggnog is best after chilling at least 4 hours, and can be made up to 2 days before serving.
- Storage: Keep refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as separation may occur.
- Egg safety: Use pasteurized eggs or cook the egg mixture as a custard for those with food safety concerns (see FAQ).
Variations to Try
- Non-alcoholic Nutella Eggnog: Omit the rum and use extra milk or a splash of orange juice for a kid-friendly version.
- Dairy-free option: Substitute unsweetened almond milk or oat milk for dairy, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Spiced Nutella Eggnog: Add ground cinnamon, clove, or cardamom for extra winter warmth.
- Vegan version: Replace eggs with a custard made from silken tofu or a thick plant-based alternative, and use appropriate plant-based milks and cream.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make Nutella Eggnog without alcohol?
A: Yes. Simply omit the rum, and adjust the cream or milk to reach your preferred consistency. The result is just as luxurious and child-friendly.
Q: How can I make cooked (safe) Nutella Eggnog?
A: To avoid raw eggs, whisk egg yolks with sugar and Nutella in a saucepan, then slowly add the milk and heat to 160°F (71°C), stirring constantly. Remove from heat, blend in cream, and cool completely. Mix in whipped egg whites last for lightness, or skip for a denser custard.
Q: What if I don’t have Nutella?
A: Substitute with a homemade mixture of melted chocolate and toasted hazelnut butter, or use another chocolate spread blended with a spoonful of hazelnut syrup.
Q: Can I freeze Nutella Eggnog?
A: It’s not recommended, as the drink tends to separate or become grainy upon thawing. Keep refrigerated and enjoy within a few days for best results.
Q: How do I toast hazelnuts for garnish?
A: Spread hazelnuts on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 8–12 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally. Cool, then crush lightly with a skillet or the bottom of a heavy glass.
Nutella Eggnog at a Glance: Nutrition and Notes
| Per serving (approximate) | Details |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350–400 (varies by ingredients and portion) |
| Allergens | Dairy, eggs, tree nuts (hazelnuts); contains alcohol if not omitted |
| Prep time | 20 minutes (plus chilling time) |
| Servings | 10–12 small glasses |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Nutella Eggnog gluten-free?
A: Yes, provided you use gluten-free Nutella (most brands are), and avoid any add-ins with gluten.
Q: Can I use a different spirit?
A: Absolutely. Try bourbon, brandy, or even a hazelnut liqueur for a more pronounced nutty flavor.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Yes, making Nutella Eggnog ahead allows the flavors to deepen. Store chilled, and stir before serving.
Q: What desserts pair best with this eggnog?
A: Simple cookies, nutty tarts, and buttery cakes are perfect complements to the rich flavors of Nutella Eggnog.
Q: How do I serve Nutella Eggnog for a party?
A: Present in a punch bowl with a ladle, or pour into individual glasses over ice, topped with toasted hazelnuts and a dusting of nutmeg.
Final Tips for Nutella Eggnog Success
- Opt for freshly grated nutmeg over pre-ground for the brightest aroma and flavor.
- If using alternative milks, select unsweetened varieties to avoid over-sweetening the drink.
- Let guests customize their glasses with extra Nutella swirls or a splash of extra rum as desired.
Nutella Eggnog brings together the nostalgic warmth of the holidays and the sophisticated indulgence of hazelnut-chocolate. Serve this decadent drink at your next gathering to delight friends and family alike—and watch it become the star of your festive season!
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