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Chai and Eggnog are Two of My Favorite Holiday Drinks

Chai and eggnog are two of my favorite holiday drinks, and putting them together in one comforting drink is like magic. You’re in for a treat if you’ve never tried this combination before.

Eggnog’s creamy richness goes perfectly with chai’s warm spices to make a drink that is both cozy and festive.

This recipe is simple to follow and everyone will love it.

This will make everyone happy (and full) whether you serve it at a family movie night, a holiday brunch, or just a quiet night by the tree.

Also, I included a version that kids can use so that everyone can enjoy it!

What You Will Need

For the base of the chai:

2 cups of water
3 tea bags of chai tea (or 3 teaspoons of loose chai tea)
2 sticks of cinnamon
4 whole cloves
2 whole cardamom pods that have been slightly crushed
A 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, cut into pieces

For the Eggnog:

Four big egg yolks
1/3 cup of sugar
2 cups of whole milk
1 cup of thick cream
1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
A little bit of nutmeg (and more for garnish)
Optional: 1/3 cup of spiced rum or bourbon for adults

Toppings (Optional):

Cream that has been whipped
Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg on top.
Cinnamon sticks for decoration

Things You Will Need

A small pot
Whisk
Spoon made of wood
Strainer with fine mesh
Bowl for mixing

How to Prepare Chai Eggnog

1. Make the base for the chai
  Put the water, chai tea bags, cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom pods, and ginger in a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then turn down the heat and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes. Take the tea out of the pot and let it cool.
2. Mix the sugar and egg yolks together.
  In a mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks and sugar together until the mixture is pale and creamy.

Warm up the cream and milk
Put the milk and heavy cream in a saucepan and heat them over medium heat until they start to steam but don’t boil.
Make the eggs warm
Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking the whole time to keep it from curdling. Put the mixture back in the pan.
Make the Eggnog
Stir the eggnog constantly while it cooks over low heat for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Don’t let it get too hot! Take off the heat and mix in the prepared chai tea and vanilla extract. If you’re using alcohol, add it here.
Serve and have fun!
Put the chai eggnog in mugs, add whipped cream, and sprinkle nutmeg or cinnamon on top. Add a cinnamon stick to the top for a festive touch.

Advice from the Pros

Don’t overheat the eggs! Take your time when tempering the egg yolks. You will get scrambled eggs if you pour the hot liquid in too quickly.
Change the Sweetness: You can lower the sugar a little bit if you don’t like your drinks as sweet. Taste it as you go!
Make It Kid-Friendly: Don’t add any alcohol, and maybe add some extra whipped cream or marshmallows for the kids.
Use whole spices and fresh ginger if you can. They will really bring out the flavors!
You can serve this drink hot or cold, and it’s good both ways. Choose the one that fits your mood.

Changes and Replacements

If you don’t want to use dairy, you can use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
To make it a little less rich, use whole milk instead of heavy cream.
If you’re making this in the evening, you can use decaf chai tea.
For more heat, add a pinch of ground black pepper.

Tips for Getting Ready Ahead of Time

You can make the chai base and the eggnog base separately up to a day ahead of time. Put them in the fridge and mix them together when you’re ready to serve. This is great for holiday get-togethers when you want to relax on the day of!

How to Store and Use Leftovers

You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to three days if you put them in an airtight container. Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring every so often to keep it smooth. If you are serving it cold, stir it well before pouring.

In Conclusion

This chai eggnog is like a hug in a mug: creamy, warm, and full of holiday cheer!

It will be a hit with your family and friends, no matter who you make for.