Nutcracker Nog Cocktail Recipe

When the holidays show up, I’m always searching for a drink that feels festive but doesn’t take a ton of effort. Eggnog is a classic, sure, but I like putting my own spin on it—something that actually stands out when friends come over.

The Nutcracker Nog Cocktail is basically a creamy Christmas treat, mixing up cozy nutty flavors with that nostalgic nog comfort. It’s like an upgrade to the usual, and honestly, it’s become a bit of a tradition for me.

I’ll whip this up when I want something that’s both cozy and a little different. The combo of rich cream, those holiday spices, and a good splash of nut liqueur? It just hits the spot. There’s nothing complicated here, but it somehow feels a bit fancier than it really is.

You’ll get the full rundown—step-by-step instructions, what you’ll need, and a heads-up on what to expect with that first sip. It’s a holiday drink that keeps things classic but lets you put your own stamp on it.

Nutcracker Nog Cocktail Recipe

I keep coming back to this one because it’s creamy, spiced, and just a little nutty. Vodka, hazelnut, and cream make it super smooth, while a sprinkle of nutmeg and cinnamon brings out that holiday vibe.

Equipment

Honestly, you don’t need a ton of tools to make this. A cocktail shaker is key, though—it chills everything down and mixes it together just right. I always double-check the lid so I don’t end up wearing my drink.

A jigger is handy for getting the pours right. If you want a neat finish, a small strainer helps keep out ice chips.

For garnishing, I like using a fine grater for nutmeg and a long spoon to swirl the whipped cream on top. And hey, a chilled glass—maybe a short tumbler or a coupe—just makes the whole thing feel a little more special.

Ingredients

I’m all about balancing creamy with nutty and sweet. Light almond milk gives it a softer feel, but if you want it richer, regular cream is fair game.

• 1 oz cake vodka or plain vodka
• 1 oz Frangelico (hazelnut liqueur)
• 1 oz white chocolate liqueur
• 1 oz Irish cream liqueur
• 0.5 oz coffee liqueur
• 2 oz almond milk or cream
• 1–2 drops vanilla extract
• Whipped cream (for topping)
• Freshly grated nutmeg
• 1 cinnamon stick (optional garnish)

The mix of vodkas and liqueurs gives it sweetness, a nutty kick, and that smooth finish I’m after. I’ll play with the almond milk amount to get it just how I like.

Instructions

I try to keep the steps as straightforward as possible. No need to overthink it.

• Fill your cocktail shaker about halfway with ice.
• Pour in the vodka, Frangelico, white chocolate liqueur, Irish cream, and coffee liqueur.
• Add the almond milk (or cream) and a drop or two of vanilla extract.
• Shake hard until the whole thing feels nice and cold—maybe 20 seconds.
• Strain it into a chilled glass.
• Top with whipped cream.
• Grate some fresh nutmeg over the top, and if you’re feeling extra, toss in a cinnamon stick.

That’s pretty much it. Just mix, shake, and serve.

Notes

Fresh nutmeg really does make a difference. You can use the pre-ground stuff, but honestly, grating it yourself just smells and tastes better.

If I’m in the mood for something lighter, I’ll swap in almond milk for the cream. And if you want it a bit sweeter, just add a splash more white chocolate liqueur.

This is one of those cocktails that’s best right after you make it. Sometimes I’ll prep the base mix ahead, then just shake it with ice when it’s time to serve.

Tasting Notes

When I take my first sip, the nutty flavors jump out at me. They remind me a bit of roasted hazelnuts—maybe even a hint of almond—so the whole thing feels warm and kind of comforting.

The texture? Honestly, it’s smooth and creamy in a way that’s just really satisfying. The richness from the nog seems to mellow out those sharper notes from the spirits, so it never ends up too heavy or cloying.

I start to notice these gentle hints of spice sneaking in. There’s a little cinnamon, maybe some nutmeg, but they don’t crowd out the nutty base at all.

The sweetness is there, but it doesn’t smack you in the face. It’s pleasantly subtle, which lets the natural flavors of the nuts and cream do their thing.

After each sip, there’s this lingering, mild warmth that hangs around. The mix of cream, spice, and nuts leaves a taste that just kind of calls you back for another sip.