Introduction
Celebrate the holiday season with a twist on a classic favorite – Easy Vegan Eggnog. This dairy-free rendition captures the rich, creamy essence of traditional eggnog without compromising on flavor. Made with plant-based ingredients, this indulgent beverage is not only delicious but also a crowd-pleaser for gatherings. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to create a velvety and spiced vegan eggnog that will warm your heart and become a festive staple. Get ready to sip, savor, and spread the joy with this plant-powered treat.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to whip up this Easy Vegan Eggnog:
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk or any plant-based milk of choice
- One can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or any preferred liquid sweetener
- 1/4 cup raw cashews, soaked and drained
- One teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup bourbon or rum for a spiked version
- Ice cubes (if serving cold)
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
Soak Cashews:
Begin by soaking the raw cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. This softens them, making them easier to blend.
Blend Cashews:
After soaking, drain the cashews and place them in a blender.
Add 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk to the blender and blend until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Combine Ingredients:
In a large saucepan, combine the blended cashew mixture, the remaining 1 cup of almond milk, full-fat coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and a pinch of salt.
Heat the Mixture:
Over medium heat, warm the mixture while stirring frequently. Be careful not to bring it to a boil; the goal is to heat it until it’s warm and well combined.
Optional Spike:
For those seeking a spirited version, add 1/4 cup of bourbon or rum to the mixture. Stir well to incorporate the alcohol.
Simmer and Infuse Flavors:
Allow the eggnog to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse their flavors into the mixture. Keep stirring to prevent any sticking to the pan.
Taste and Adjust:
Taste the eggnog and adjust the sweetness or spice levels according to your preference. Add more maple syrup or spices if needed.
Strain (Optional):
If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the eggnog through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any remaining cashew particles. This step is optional, as some may enjoy the added texture.
Chill or Serve Warm:
Depending on your preference, you can either chill the eggnog in the refrigerator for a few hours or serve it warm immediately.
Serve and Garnish:
Pour the vegan eggnog into glasses over ice cubes if serving cold. Alternatively, serve it warm in mugs.
Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a festive touch.
Toast and Enjoy:
Raise your glass, toast to good times, and savor the creamy delight of your homemade Easy Vegan Eggnog. Share the joy with friends and family during festive gatherings.
Conclusion
With just a few simple steps, you’ve crafted a delightful and dairy-free treat – Easy Vegan Eggnog. This plant-based version captures the essence of traditional eggnog with its creamy texture and warm, spiced flavors. Whether you choose to enjoy it cold over ice or warm in a cozy mug, this vegan eggnog is a festive addition to holiday celebrations. Cheers to indulging in the flavors of the season with this homemade, plant-powered delight that will surely become a cherished tradition. Happy sipping!
