Sugar-Free Eggnog Recipe
Sugar-Free Eggnog Recipe
This Sugar-Free Eggnog Recipe is creamy, cozy, lightly spiced, and perfect for the holiday season. It has all the classic eggnog flavor you love, but without the sugar.
If you love eggnog but do not love the sugar crash that usually comes with it, this homemade sugar-free eggnog is such a delicious holiday treat.
It is made with simple ingredients like unsweetened almond milk, heavy cream, egg yolks, sugar-free sweetener, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. It tastes rich and festive, but you get to control the ingredients and the sweetness.
This is the kind of recipe that feels special enough for Christmas, but simple enough to make ahead and keep in the refrigerator for a cozy drink whenever you want one.
Why You’ll Love This Sugar-Free Eggnog
It tastes like a holiday treat
This eggnog is creamy, sweet, and full of warm holiday spices. The cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and optional rum extract give it that classic eggnog flavor.
It is made without sugar
Instead of regular sugar, this recipe uses a powdered sugar-free sweetener. You can adjust the amount based on how sweet you like your eggnog.
It is simple to make
Homemade eggnog may sound fancy, but it is really just a gentle stovetop custard-style drink. The main thing is to heat it slowly and not let it boil.
It can be made ahead
Eggnog needs time to chill, which makes it a great make-ahead holiday recipe. Make it earlier in the day or the night before you want to serve it.
It is THM-friendly
This sugar-free eggnog can fit into a Trim Healthy Mama S setting when made with on-plan sweetener and ingredients.
Ingredients for Sugar-Free Eggnog
You will need:
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/3 to 1/2 cup powdered sugar-free sweetener, to taste
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon rum extract, optional
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Ingredient Notes
Unsweetened Almond Milk
Unsweetened almond milk keeps the recipe lighter while still giving you a creamy base. Make sure to use unsweetened so you can control the sweetness.
Heavy Cream
The heavy cream gives this eggnog its rich, classic texture. This is what makes it feel like a real holiday treat.
Egg Yolks
Egg yolks help thicken the eggnog and give it that traditional custard-like richness.
Powdered Sugar-Free Sweetener
A powdered sugar-free sweetener works best because it dissolves more smoothly. Start with 1/3 cup and add more if you like your eggnog sweeter.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla adds warmth and helps round out the flavor.
Rum Extract
The rum extract is optional, but it gives the eggnog that classic holiday flavor without adding alcohol.
Nutmeg and Cinnamon
Nutmeg is the signature eggnog spice, and cinnamon adds extra warmth.
How to Make Sugar-Free Eggnog
Step 1: Whisk the Egg Yolks and Sweetener
In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks and powdered sugar-free sweetener until smooth and slightly lightened in color.
This helps the sweetener dissolve and gives the eggnog a smoother texture.
Step 2: Warm the Milk and Cream
In a medium saucepan, combine the unsweetened almond milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
Warm the mixture over medium-low heat until it is hot, but not boiling.
You want it warm enough to temper the eggs, but not so hot that it scrambles them.
Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks
Slowly pour a small amount of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly.
This gently warms the egg yolks so they do not scramble when added to the saucepan.
Continue adding a little more warm liquid while whisking.
Step 4: Cook Until Slightly Thickened
Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan.
Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the eggnog slightly thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Do not let it boil.
This step usually takes just a few minutes, so stay close and keep stirring.
Step 5: Add the Flavorings
Remove the eggnog from the heat.
Stir in the vanilla extract and optional rum extract.
Taste and adjust sweetness or spices if needed.
Step 6: Chill Before Serving
Allow the eggnog to cool slightly, then transfer it to a jar or covered container.
Refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours, or until completely chilled.
Stir well before serving.
Tips for the Best Sugar-Free Eggnog
Do not let it boil
This is the most important tip. Eggnog should be cooked gently. If it gets too hot or boils, the eggs can scramble.
Stir constantly
Keep the mixture moving while it cooks so it thickens smoothly.
Use powdered sweetener
Powdered sweetener dissolves better than granular sweetener and helps keep the eggnog smooth.
Chill completely
Eggnog tastes best after it has had time to chill. The flavors blend together and the texture becomes even better.
Adjust the sweetness
Some people like eggnog lightly sweet, while others like it sweeter. Start with 1/3 cup sweetener and add more if needed.
Add extra nutmeg before serving
A little fresh sprinkle of nutmeg on top makes it feel extra festive.
How to Serve Sugar-Free Eggnog
Serve this eggnog chilled in small glasses.
You can top it with:
- A sprinkle of nutmeg
- A sprinkle of cinnamon
- A cinnamon stick
- Sugar-free whipped cream
- A tiny splash of extra vanilla
- A little extra rum extract stirred in, if desired
This is perfect for Christmas movie night, holiday parties, Christmas Eve, or anytime you want a festive sugar-free treat.
Is This Sugar-Free Eggnog THM-Friendly?
Yes, this recipe can fit into a Trim Healthy Mama S setting because it uses heavy cream, egg yolks, unsweetened almond milk, and sugar-free sweetener.
To keep it THM-friendly:
- Use unsweetened almond milk
- Use an on-plan sugar-free sweetener
- Avoid adding sugar or regular whipped cream with sugar
- Keep toppings on plan
As always, your final fuel setting depends on the exact ingredients and toppings you use.
Can I Make Eggnog Ahead of Time?
Yes. This is a great make-ahead holiday drink because it needs time to chill.
You can make it earlier in the day or the night before you plan to serve it.
Store it covered in the refrigerator and stir well before pouring.
How Long Does Homemade Sugar-Free Eggnog Last?
Store homemade eggnog in a covered jar or airtight container in the refrigerator.
For best freshness, use within 3 days. But it should last even longer. Mine lasted over a week.
Because this recipe contains eggs and cream, keep it refrigerated and do not leave it sitting out for long periods of time.
Can I Make This Eggnog Thicker?
Yes. If you want a thicker eggnog, cook it a little longer over medium-low heat until it coats the back of a spoon more fully.
Just be careful not to boil it.
It will also thicken a bit more as it chills.
You can also add xanthan gum or glucomannan, but only a tiny bit. I found this thickened up nicely without any extra thickener.
Can I Make This Eggnog Less Rich?
Yes. You can make it a little lighter by using more unsweetened almond milk and a little less heavy cream.
The texture will not be quite as rich, but it will still be delicious.
Sugar-Free Eggnog Recipe
Servings
About 4-6 servings
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Chill Time
2 to 3 hours
Ingredients
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/3 to 1/2 cup powdered sugar-free sweetener, to taste
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon rum extract, optional
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and powdered sugar-free sweetener until smooth.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the unsweetened almond milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
- Warm the milk mixture over medium-low heat until hot, but not boiling.
- Slowly pour a small amount of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Continue whisking in a little more warm liquid, then pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan.
- Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the eggnog slightly thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Do not let the mixture boil.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and optional rum extract.
- Allow the eggnog to cool slightly, then transfer to a jar or covered container.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours before serving.
- Stir well before serving and top with extra nutmeg or cinnamon if desired.
Notes
- Start with 1/3 cup sweetener and add more if you prefer a sweeter eggnog.
- Do not boil the eggnog or the eggs may scramble.
- For a smoother eggnog, strain it through a fine mesh strainer before chilling.
- Rum extract is optional, but it gives the eggnog a classic holiday flavor.
- Store covered in the refrigerator and use within 3 days.
Nutrition Note
Nutrition will vary depending on the exact brands of almond milk, heavy cream, and sweetener used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you make eggnog without sugar?
Yes. This homemade eggnog uses a powdered sugar-free sweetener instead of regular sugar. It still tastes creamy, sweet, and festive without added sugar.
Is homemade eggnog hard to make?
No. Homemade eggnog is simple, but it does need gentle heat. The key is to temper the egg yolks and cook the mixture slowly without boiling.
Why do you temper the eggs?
Tempering slowly warms the egg yolks so they mix smoothly into the hot liquid without scrambling.
Can I leave out the rum extract?
Yes. The rum extract is optional. You can leave it out and still have a delicious vanilla-spiced eggnog.
Can I use a different milk?
Unsweetened almond milk keeps this recipe lower in carbs and lighter. You can use another unsweetened milk if it fits your needs, but the flavor and nutrition may change.
Can I serve this warm?
This recipe is best chilled, but you can enjoy it warm if you prefer. Just be sure it has been cooked gently and do not re-boil it when reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Sugar-Free Eggnog Recipe is a cozy holiday drink that lets you enjoy classic eggnog flavor without the sugar.
It is creamy, lightly spiced, and perfect for Christmas gatherings, holiday movie nights, or a quiet treat at home.
If you have missed eggnog because you are avoiding sugar, this homemade version is such a fun recipe to make during the holiday season.
Sugar-free Eggnog
Ingredients
- 2 C Unsweetened Almond Milk
- 1 C Heavy Cream You can try subbing half and half to make it lighter
- 4 Egg Yolks
- 1/3-1/2 C Powdered Sweetener of Choice I used a powdered monkfruit blend
- 1 t Vanilla
- 1/2 t Rum extract, optional
- 1 t Ground Nutmeg
- 1/4-1/2 t Cinnamon
- 1 pinch Salt
Instructions
- This sugar-free eggnog recipe is creamy, cozy, and made with almond milk, heavy cream, egg yolks, warm spices, and sugar-free sweetener. (that whisk looks huge)
- In a medium saucepan, combine the unsweetened almond milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
- Warm the milk mixture over medium-low heat until hot, but not boiling.
- Slowly pour a small amount of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Continue whisking in a little more warm liquid, then pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan.
- Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the eggnog slightly thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Do not let the mixture boil.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and optional rum extract. Allow the eggnog to cool slightly, then transfer to a jar or covered container. Refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours before serving.
- Stir well before serving and top with extra nutmeg or cinnamon if desired.
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