No matter how you celebrate the holidays, one tradition always seems to carry on: leftover eggnog hanging out in the fridge. You buy the holiday beverage with good intentions, but after a few cups, you end up with more than you can manage. So, we’ve got seven tasty ways to upcycle that carton, from ultra-creamy hot chocolate and a New Year’s Eve-ready cocktail to a festive breakfast that’s easy to make for a crowd. Even if the big day has officially come and gone, these eggnog recipes let you savor the flavors of the holiday season down to the last drop.
Eggnog Hot Chocolate
After a day of sledding or building snowmen, this doubly sweet sip is certain to make everyone warm and cozy. Eggnog adds creaminess and warm spice to hot cocoa mix with an optional splash of bourbon or rum for the grownups.
Get the recipe: Eggnog Hot Chocolate
Eggnog Cutout Cookies
A double dose of eggnog transforms ordinary sugar cookies into a treat fit for Santa himself. A splash of nog in both the dough and glaze adds holiday flavor to roll and cut cookies that are perfect for gifting or ornamenting the dessert table.
Get the recipe: Eggnog Cutout Cookies
Make-Ahead Sheet Pan Eggnog Pancakes
No standing at the stovetop or flipping required for these big-batch pancakes that serve 12. Eggnog and nutmeg enrich the overnight batter for festive flapjacks that bake on a sheet pan the next day. Serve cut into squares or use cookie cutters for extra holiday flair.
Get the recipe: Make-Ahead Sheet Pan Eggnog Pancakes
Eggnog Bread Pudding
Three kinds of dried fruit nod to fruitcake in this bread pudding, which works for brunch or dessert. Eggnog, almond extract, and warm spices flavor this mildly sweet, aromatic bake made with challah, brioche, or panettone.
Get the recipe: Eggnog Bread Pudding
Bourbon Eggnog Fizz
This frothy cocktail is perfect for holiday parties, toasting to the new year, or just cozying up by the fire. A splash of sparkling wine elevates the classic combination of eggnog and bourbon, garnished with nutmeg and cinnamon sticks.
Get the recipe: Bourbon Eggnog Fizz
Eggnog Cheesecake
Leftover eggnog turns crowd-pleasing cheesecake into the ultimate holiday dessert. Spiced rum, nutmeg, and vanilla add warm notes to a luscious cream cheese filling dusted with cinnamon on a gingersnap crust.
Get the recipe: Eggnog Cheesecake
Eggnog Lattes
This creamy coffee drink was made for cozy holiday mornings (especially if the kids got you up early). Steamed eggnog and milk, plus a dash of cinnamon, turn espresso into fa la la la-lattes.
Get the recipe: Eggnog Lattes
