Eggnog with Baileys is a creamy, rich holiday drink that brings a fun twist to a classic favorite. The smooth blend of traditional eggnog and the sweet, slightly boozy flavor of Baileys Irish Cream makes it a perfect treat for cozy winter nights. It’s silky, comforting, and just sweet enough to feel special without being overwhelming.
I love making this drink when friends come over for holiday gatherings because it always gets everyone smiling and relaxed. Adding Baileys to eggnog feels like a little celebration in a glass. My tip is to serve it chilled with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top—it really brings out the flavors and adds a nice touch of warmth.
This eggnog with Baileys is the kind of drink you find yourself wanting to sip slowly while wrapped in a blanket by the fire or during a festive movie night. It’s creamy and cozy in a way that just feels like a hug during the chilly season. Whenever I make it, I know the holidays are truly here!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggnog: You can use store-bought eggnog for convenience or make your own for a fresher taste. If you prefer dairy-free, there are almond or coconut milk-based eggnogs available that work well too.
Baileys Irish Cream: This adds creaminess and sweetness with a light kick. If you don’t have Baileys, you can substitute with Kahlua, Amarula, or another cream liqueur you like.
Bourbon or Rum (optional): Adding bourbon or rum gives the drink a stronger warmth. Skip it if you want a milder drink or keep to just Baileys for simplicity.
Spices: Nutmeg and cinnamon bring classic warmth and aroma. Freshly grated nutmeg tastes best, but pre-ground works fine. Cinnamon sticks add a lovely touch and can be used for stirring.
How Do I Mix Eggnog with Baileys for the Best Flavor and Texture?
Mixing the drink gently is key to keeping its smooth texture without breaking up the cream.
- Start with cold eggnog—this keeps the drink refreshing.
- Pour eggnog and Baileys into a shaker or glass.
- If you like it stronger, add bourbon or rum here, but it’s optional.
- Stir gently or shake very lightly to blend without frothing too much.
- Pour into a chilled glass to keep it cold longer.
- Add whipped cream on top for a creamy finish, then sprinkle nutmeg or cinnamon.
- Use a cinnamon stick both for flavor and a pretty garnish.
These steps help maintain the creamy, cozy feel of the drink while mixing all the flavors evenly. Enjoy!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Shaker or large glass – I like using a shaker because it mixes everything smoothly and chills the drink quickly.
- Measuring jigger or shot glass – makes it easy to measure precise amounts of Baileys and spirits.
- Chilled glass – keeps your drink cold longer and enhances the experience.
- Whisk or spoon – for stirring if you prefer to mix without shaking.
- Garnish tools (small spoon or grater) – to sprinkle ground nutmeg or cinnamon on top and add cinnamon sticks.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use flavored liqueurs like Kahlua or Amaretto instead of Baileys for different tastes.
- Add a splash of vanilla vodka or bourbon for extra warmth and depth.
- Mix in a dash of caramel or chocolate syrup for a richer, dessert-like flavor.
- Top with crushed cookies, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of caramel for an indulgent touch.
Eggnog with Baileys
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Drink:
- 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 ounces Baileys Irish Cream
- 1 ounce bourbon or rum (optional, for extra kick)
For Topping and Garnish:
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Ground nutmeg or cinnamon (for garnish)
- Cinnamon stick (for garnish)
Optional Serving:
- Ginger snap cookies or spiced cookies (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare. There’s no cooking involved—just mixing and garnishing. You can have your festive Eggnog with Baileys ready in a flash, perfect for a quick holiday treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Eggnog and Baileys:
Pour 1 cup of cold eggnog into a shaker or a large glass. Add 2 ounces of Baileys Irish Cream. If you want a stronger flavor, add 1 ounce of bourbon or rum as well. Stir gently or shake lightly to blend everything evenly without making it too frothy.
2. Pouring and Topping:
Pour the combined drink into a chilled glass. Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top. This creamy layer will add a lovely texture and richness.
3. Adding Garnish and Serving:
Sprinkle a pinch of ground nutmeg or cinnamon over the whipped cream for a warm, inviting aroma. Place a cinnamon stick in the glass for an extra festive touch. Serve your Eggnog with Baileys immediately with some ginger snap or spiced cookies on the side for the perfect holiday pairing.
Can I Use Store-Bought Eggnog for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog works great and saves time. Just be sure to chill it well before mixing for the best flavor and texture.
What If I Don’t Have Baileys Irish Cream?
You can substitute Baileys with other cream liqueurs like Kahlua, Amarula, or a similar favorite. If you want a non-alcoholic version, just skip the liqueur and enjoy the eggnog as is.
How Should I Store Leftover Eggnog with Baileys?
It’s best to make this drink fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 24 hours. Give it a good stir before drinking, as the ingredients may separate.
Can I Make This Drink Ahead of Time?
You can mix the eggnog and Baileys portion in advance and refrigerate for a few hours. Add whipped cream and garnishes just before serving to keep everything fresh and creamy.