Eggnog is a rich, creamy holiday drink that many people look forward to each year. However, eggnog is traditionally only available in stores from late October through early January. If you love the flavor of eggnog, you may wish you could enjoy it all year round. Well, with this eggnog powder recipe, you can!
Making an instant eggnog mix at home is easy. All it takes is powdered milk, instant vanilla pudding mix, coffee creamer, nutmeg, and a few other ingredients. Mix it all together and store the powder in an airtight container. When you want a glass of eggnog, just add the powder to milk, blend, and enjoy!
Benefits of Making Your Own Eggnog Powder
Before we dive into the recipe, let's look at some of the key benefits of making your own eggnog powder:
- Enjoy eggnog anytime - With a jar of homemade mix on hand, you can satisfy eggnog cravings even in the middle of summer!
- Customize the flavor - Adjust spices to your taste or experiment with additions like rum extract.
- Control the ingredients - Use high quality ingredients and avoid preservatives or additives.
- Make great gifts - Package eggnog powder into jars to give to family and friends.
- Cost effective - Homemade mix is cheaper ounce-for-ounce than store-bought.
- Long shelf life - Properly stored powder lasts up to 6 months.
Now let's get mixing!
Eggnog Powder Ingredients
The ingredients for this easy DIY eggnog mix are likely items you already have in your pantry:
- Powdered milk
- Instant vanilla pudding mix
- Powdered coffee creamer or powdered dairy creamer
- Ground nutmeg
- Ground cinnamon
- Sugar or powdered sugar
- Salt
That's it! As you can see, powder is the key for allowing this mix to be shelf-stable. Be sure to use instant powdered milk and pudding mix, not the kind that requires cooking.
Let's talk about some of these key ingredients:
Powdered Milk
Powdered milk provides the creamy, eggnog-like texture when blended with water or milk. Use a high quality non-fat dry milk powder for best results. While fresh milk would spoil, powdered milk has the moisture removed so it lasts for months.
Reconstitute powdered milk just before using by whisking it into water, milk, or your beverage of choice. The powder dissolves easily to create a smooth drink.
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix
This might seem odd in an eggnog recipe, but instant pudding mix is a secret weapon for extra richness without raw eggs. The cornstarch thickens the drink while the vanilla flavor boosts sweet creaminess. Be sure to use instant pudding that does not require cooking.
Coffee Creamer
For an extra creamy mouthfeel, powdered coffee creamer is the perfect addition. Opt for a high quality dairy-based powder, either plain or french vanilla flavor. While not a traditional eggnog ingredient, it enhances the velvety texture.
Spices & Sugar
No eggnog is complete without warm notes of nutmeg and cinnamon. A small amount of sugar balances the spice blend and sweetens to taste. A tiny pinch of salt also helps round out the flavors.
How to Make Eggnog Powder
Now let's make some eggnog powder!
Here are the simple steps:
- Measure out ingredients
- Whisk together dry ingredients until fully blended
- Transfer mix to an airtight container
- Store powder in a cool, dry place
And that's it - let's break that down step-by-step:
Step 1: Measure Ingredients
First, gather all of your ingredients and measuring tools. Use the amounts listed in the recipe below or double as needed to make a large batch.
Be precise in your measurements for the best final results. Use a dry measuring cup for the powdered ingredients, a measuring spoon for the spices, and a kitchen scale for maximum accuracy.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Powdered milk | 4 cups |
| Instant vanilla pudding mix | 2 (3 ounce) boxes |
| Powdered dairy or coffee creamer | 2 cups |
| Ground nutmeg | 2 tablespoons |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1/3 cup |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
Step 2: Blend Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine all of the powdered ingredients. Use a wire whisk to vigorously mix everything together until uniformly blended.
Break up any clumps and keep whisking for 2-3 minutes to ensure even distribution. Try to incorporate as much air as possible for a lighter, fluffier texture.
Step 3: Transfer to Airtight Container
Funnel your fresh eggnog powder into clean, dry jars or another sealed container. Glass jars make lovely gifts while reusable plastic containers work well for kitchen storage.
Press the powder firmly into the containers, eliminating extra air pockets. This helps preserve freshness and prevent caking or clumping over time.
Step 4: Store in Cool, Dry Place
Your instant eggnog mix needs a cool, dark home to maintain peak quality. Store containers in a cupboard or pantry away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Properly stored, the powder keeps for up to 6 months.
And that's all you need for crave-worthy creamy eggnog anytime!
How to Use Eggnog Powder
When you're ready to indulge in this holiday treat, using your DIY eggnog powder takes just minutes.
Here is the easy method for mixing up eggnog from powder:
Ingredients:
- 3-4 tablespoons eggnog powder
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1 cup ice (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine powder and milk in a blender
- Blend for 1-2 minutes until smooth
- Enjoy immediately
For an extra creamy drink, use half & half or heavy cream instead of regular milk.
Some tips when mixing:
- Chill your blender jar and milk for ultra-frothy results
- Add ice cubes to thicken and amplify chill
- Let rest 1-2 minutes after blending to thicken
- Garnish with extra nutmeg and enjoy!
For a boozy twist, spike your eggnog with 1-2 ounces rum, brandy, or bourbon. Cheers!
Key Takeaway: To use eggnog powder, simply blend 3-4 tablespoons with 1 cup milk until smooth and creamy.
Customizing Your Eggnog Powder
The beauty of homemade eggnog powder is that you control the flavor. Customize to suit your perfect taste by:
Boosting Spices: Amp up nutmeg, cinnamon, allspice, or cloves
Adding Sweeteners: Brown sugar, maple sugar, or molasses lend deeper flavor
Mixing Milks: Goat or coconut milk offer lighter, dairy-free options
Flavoring with Extracts: Almond, rum, vanilla, or peppermint extracts spice things up
Garnishing: Finish with grated chocolate, crushed candy canes, or espresso powder
Get creative with combinations! Tweak the recipe to craft your own signature eggnog flavor.
Gift Ideas for Eggnog Powder
Whip up batches of this festive powder to gift to loved ones for the holidays. Eggnog mix makes a thoughtful present and saves the recipient time in the kitchen later.
Here are some ideas for gifting homemade eggnog powder:
- Package powder in 1-pint glass jars tied with bows or raffia
- Create labels with the recipient's name and eggnog mixing/serving instructions
- Pair jars with mugs, instant hot cocoa, and peppermint sticks
- Include cocktail recipe ideas like Brandied Eggnog or Eggnog White Russians
- Add a mini whisk or blender bottle so they can easily mix single servings
With a shelf life of 6 months, recipients can enjoy using your eggnog powder for months after the holidays too.
Homemade Eggnog Powder Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups powdered milk
- 2 (3 ounce) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups powdered coffee creamer
- 2 Tbsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Whisk all ingredients together until fully blended.
- Transfer mix to an airtight container. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
- To prepare eggnog: Blend 3-4 Tbsp mix with 1 cup milk until smooth. Enjoy!
FAQs
Is the powder safe to consume without cooking?
Yes, it is safe. Since the dairy and eggs are in powdered form, they do not require further cooking. Simply blend with cold liquid when ready to consume.
How long does homemade eggnog powder last?
Properly stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, the powder will last for 6 months. Write the expiration date on your container.
Why does the recipe use instant pudding instead of eggs?
Eggnog traditionally contains raw eggs, but powdered instant pudding mimics the rich creaminess without salmonella risk from undercooked eggs.
Can I give eggnog powder jars as gifts?
Absolutely! Packaged in jars with custom labels, eggnog powder makes a crave-worthy edible gift anyone would love receiving.
What kind of milk should I use when mixing powdered eggnog?
You can use regular dairy milk, plant-based milk, coconut milk, or even strong coffee. For ultimate richness, try heavy cream or half and half.
Can I add alcohol to my eggnog powder drink?
Yes! For boozy eggnog, spike your blended drink with 1-2 ounces rum, whiskey, bourbon, or brandy. Proportions are up to you!
Conclusion
Whipping up this easy eggnog powder recipe means you can banish missing eggnog season forever! With flavorful homemade mix on hand, satisfy creamy nutmeg cravings no matter the time of year.
Make a batch or two to keep in your pantry or gift to other eggnog aficionados. Customize the spices to your perfect taste and blend rich, delicious eggnog anytime the urge strikes.