This is a variation of our stovetop oatmeal base recipe. During the holiday season, eggnog fills the dairy shelves at the grocery store. Beyond enjoying a small glass here and there, eggnog is a fun ingredient to add to festive treats, like this creamy eggnog oatmeal. Mixed with whole grain oats, nuts, and fruit, create a delicious healthy breakfast using a normally indulgent drink!
Must-Know Cooking Skills
For recipe success, learn how to:
Culinary Tips for Making Creamy Eggnog Oatmeal
We use three liquids in this recipe: eggnog, milk, and water. We tested the recipe without the milk, but we found it a little too strong and overly sweet. If you would like to omit the milk, check the added sugar in your eggnog first; if it is over 8 grams, we recommend keeping the milk. Be sure to keep the total liquid to oat ratio 2:1.
Measure the milk and eggnog first in a liquid measuring cup. Then measure the water to help get every last drop of flavor out and clean the cup!
If you want a creamier oatmeal, use a creamy milk. Skim milk and almond milk eggnog are thinner, whereas whole milk and dairy-based eggnogs are creamier. Be mindful of daily saturated fat intake if using whole milk.
Don’t over-stir, or the oats will become gummy. Just a quick stir to mix everything together, and that should do the trick!
While our base recipe requires 3-5 minutes of simmer time, the added ingredients in eggnog slow down the absorption process of the oats, necessitating a slightly longer cooking time. We promise that the extra 2 minutes is worth the final flavor!
You can change the type of oats you use in this recipe, depending on what you like and have on hand! Just note that cooking times may vary. Learn more about the different types of oats in this article: Different Types of Oats.
Toast the almonds before adding to the oatmeal for the best flavor. Since sliced almonds are so thin, they toast best in a pan on the stovetop. Warm over medium-low heat until golden and fragrant.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Eggnog: use traditional dairy-based eggnog or a milk alternative version, such as almond milk nog.
- Milk or Milk Alternative: use any milk or milk alternative of your choice, but keep it a plain, unsweetened variety. You can also substitute all water, but note that your oatmeal will not be as creamy!
- Nutmeg: nutmeg is traditional with eggnog, but cinnamon or pumpkin spice would also be delicious.
- Oats: old fashioned, rolled, or quick oats all work. Steel cut oats work in this recipe too, but note that cooking time increases. Cook according to package directions.
- Bananas: use any fruit of your choosing. Diced apples, pears, or fresh berries would also be delicious. If using dried fruit, reduce to ¼ cup, and try to avoid added sugars since the eggnog already has it. Raisins would be a tasty choice.
- Almonds: use any nuts or seeds. Chopped pecans or walnuts would be a good seasonal addition. Roast in the oven first for the best flavor.
Recipe Variations
Want to make your eggnog oatmeal vegan? Use a plant based eggnog and a milk alternative, such as almond, soy, or cashew milk.
Want some oatmeal recipe inspiration?
Use our stovetop oatmeal base recipe as a guide, or check out some of our favorite variations!
Take a look at our overnight oats base recipe and its variations for even more ideas!
Equipment Recommendations
Use these kitchen tools for recipe success:
Find all of our favorite kitchen tools here!
Is eggnog oatmeal healthy?
Yes! Oatmeal is a great breakfast to start your morning. Packed with fiber, protein, and flavor, oatmeal will keep you satisfied and energized throughout your morning. While most eggnogs have around 14-16 grams (~4 teaspoons) of added sugar per ½ cup serving, we limit the amount to ~2 teaspoons by mixing the eggnog with milk and water. The oats, milk, banana, and almonds provide lots of great nutrients, while the eggnog adds flavor and festivity!
Oats
Oats are whole grains, making them rich in disease-fighting phytonutrients and antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Any variety of oats are a good source of fiber and complex carbohydrates. Fiber is important for digestion, satiety, stable blood sugar, good cholesterol, and healthy gut bacteria. Carbohydrates are important for energy and focus.
Milk or Milk Alternative
Whether you choose to use cow’s milk or a plant based alternative, you are sure to get some nutritional benefit. Cow’s milk is a great source of protein, calcium, vitamins A & D, and more. There are so many plant-based milk alternatives that it’s hard to generalize their benefits, so be sure to read the nutrition label. Avoid varieties with added sugar. Soy milk is the most comparable to cow’s milk.
Learn more in our plant-based milk vs cow’s milk article!
Bananas
Bananas contain prebiotic fiber, vitamins, and minerals – important for digestion, steady energy, and metabolism. Greenish bananas are firm and higher in prebiotic fiber. Brownish bananas are soft and higher in natural sugar, making them sweeter.
Almonds
Almonds contain plant-based protein and healthy monounsaturated fats which are good for heart health. These nutrients also help you feel satisfied until your next meal.
Learn more about the benefits of whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in our book, To Your Taste!
Serving Suggestions for the Best Eggnog Oatmeal
This recipe is a balanced meal on its own, but to make the ultimate cold winter breakfast, pair it with some hot tea or coffee.
How to Store Cooked Oatmeal
Want to make a big batch of oatmeal today to eat throughout the week? Multiply the recipe by your desired yield, cook, cool, then place in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
When ready to eat, dish out individual servings, then add your favorite toppings, and enjoy hot or cold! If eating hot, add a splash of water before heating.
Want More Healthy Holiday Recipes?
Check out these delicious options!
Dark Chocolate Covered Fruit Bites
Eggnog Oatmeal
Ingredients
- ¼ cup eggnog
- ¼ cup milk or milk alternative
- ½ cup water
- Dash kosher salt
- ½ cup old-fashioned oats
- ½ medium banana, sliced
- 2 Tablespoons toasted slivered almonds
- Dash nutmeg
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine eggnog, milk, water, and salt. Bring to a boil.
- Add oats, reduce heat, and stir to combine. Simmer 5-7 minutes or until oats are plump and liquid is thickened. Remove from heat and let settle for another minute before eating.
- Top with banana slices, toasted almonds, and a dash of nutmeg. Enjoy!
