Chai Eggnog Mocktail Recipe

When the holidays show up, I’m always on the hunt for drinks that give off those festive vibes but don’t actually need booze to be the star. Eggnog’s got that old-school creamy thing going on, and chai? It brings in all those warm spices that just make you want to curl up with a mug.

A chai eggnog mocktail basically swirls both together into one easy recipe. You can sip it morning, noon, or night—no rules.

Honestly, I like this drink because it feels a little fancy without making me jump through hoops. You get that thick richness from the eggnog, but the chai keeps it from being too much, and it’s all done in a few quick steps.

It’s perfect for a quiet evening at home, or if you’ve got a couple friends over and want something different.

You’ll see the recipe’s got clear steps, nothing complicated, and you don’t need any weird equipment. I’ll also toss in some tasting notes, just so you know what you’re getting into before you try it.

Chai Eggnog Mocktail Recipe

The best part about this drink is how the spicy chai tea and sweet, creamy eggnog just work together. It feels festive, but it’s not heavy—plus, no alcohol, so there’s really no reason not to go for a second glass.

Equipment

I try to keep things simple because, really, who wants a pile of dishes after making a drink? Just the basics are enough, and you’ll still get all the flavors.

• Small saucepan – for steeping the chai tea and cinnamon sticks.
• Measuring cups and spoons – so you don’t overdo the spices (unless you want to).
• Whisk – to get the eggnog and tea all smooth and blended.
• Heatproof mug or cup – for steeping the tea.
• Mixing bowl – if you’re making a bigger batch.
• Fine mesh strainer – to fish out the tea bags and cinnamon bits.
• Serving glasses – clear mugs look especially nice with this drink.
• Small spoon – for that last stir before serving.

Ingredients

I go for ingredients that really let the chai spices shine, but still keep the eggnog front and center. Fresh spices make a difference if you’ve got them.

• 2 chai tea bags
• 1 cup water
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 ½ cups eggnog (store-bought or homemade, whatever you’ve got)
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (totally optional, but adds a little something)
• Whipped cream (if you’re feeling fancy)
• Extra ground nutmeg or cinnamon for topping

Instructions

I like to go step by step so the flavors don’t get muddled. The trick is to let the tea steep long enough to get bold, but not so long it turns bitter.

• Heat up the water in a small saucepan—get it hot, but not quite boiling.
• Toss in the chai tea bags and cinnamon sticks. Let them steep for 5–7 minutes.
• Fish out the tea bags and cinnamon sticks with a strainer.
• Pour in the eggnog and whisk it all together until it looks smooth.
• Warm everything gently over low heat—don’t let it boil.
• Add in the ground nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Give it a good mix.
• Pour into your serving glasses.
• Top with whipped cream if you’re into that.
• Sprinkle a bit of nutmeg or cinnamon on top before serving.

Notes

I’ve noticed if you let the chai steep a little longer, you get more of that spicy kick, but more than 7 minutes and it can get a bit harsh. Using whole cinnamon sticks in the steep adds a softer, rounder flavor than just dumping in ground cinnamon.

If you want something lighter, try mixing half eggnog and half milk—it still tastes great. And for looks, clear mugs really show off that creamy color. A little dusting of nutmeg on top just makes it look finished, and honestly, it’s barely any extra work.

Tasting Notes

So, when I take that first sip, the warm spice from the chai just pops right out. Cinnamon and cardamom are definitely there, but honestly, they don’t try to steal the show.

The eggnog brings in this creamy texture that’s smooth, almost rich, but not in an over-the-top way. It’s like the sweetness just kind of wraps around the spice, making each sip feel pretty comforting.

There’s a light touch of vanilla in there too—can’t miss it, really. And with a little nutmeg sprinkled on top, you get this soft aroma that sort of hangs around as you drink.

The whole mix of flavors feels cozy, but thankfully, it’s not heavy or anything. I like how the spices keep showing up, but they never get too loud, and the creaminess just encourages you to slow down and enjoy.

Honestly, what I love most is how the spice, sweetness, and cream all find their own spot. Nothing’s out of line, and everything just works together.