There’s something about the holiday season that makes me crave cozy, comforting baked goods—I get a bit nostalgic just thinking about it. One of my absolute favorites is these Eggnog Muffins. I don’t know if it’s the rich, creamy flavor of the eggnog, the warm spices, or just the fact that they make the house smell like a holiday dream, but these muffins are a true family favorite. I always do this when I want something sweet, festive, and a little bit special without spending hours in the kitchen. Honestly, they disappear in minutes at my house! My kids ask for these all the time, especially around Christmas, but I love making them year-round. Plus, they’re super easy—perfect for busy mornings or when friends drop by unexpectedly. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your holiday ring of treats. And nothing beats the smell of warm muffin batter mingling with the spices of nutmeg and cinnamon—so good! You’ll see it’s almost like capturing a little piece of holiday magic in every bite.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!What is Eggnog Muffins?
Think of Eggnog Muffins as a seasonal twist on your classic breakfast muffin that’s packed with that unmistakable holiday flavor. Essentially, they’re moist, tender muffins infused with the richness of eggnog—think creamy, slightly sweet, with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg—baked to golden perfection. The name is pretty straightforward: they’re muffins made with eggnog as one of the main ingredients, which gives them that signature cozy flavor we all associate with winter holidays. These muffins are basically a cross between a breakfast treat and a dessert, kind of like enjoying a mini eggnog latte but in muffin form. They’re soft and fluffy on the inside with a slight crust on top, and honestly, the kind of thing you’d want to serve alongside a steaming cup of coffee or hot cocoa. Think of it as a little gift to yourself—a holiday breakfast that feels decadent but is really simple to make.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What I love most about these Eggnog Muffins is how effortlessly they bring festive cheer into my kitchen. The flavor is just *so* comforting—rich, sweet, but balanced perfectly with spices that remind me of baking cookies with my grandma. Plus, they’re incredibly simple to whip up; you don’t need any fancy equipment or long prep times. I’ve made this with regular dairy eggnog, but one year I tested it with almond milk based eggnog, and honestly, it made the muffins even creamier and just as flavorful—so feel free to customize! These muffins are also budget-friendly because most of the ingredients are pantry staples—flour, sugar, spices—and a splash of eggnog for that special touch. The versatility is another thing I love—you can serve them for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack after dinner. My family goes crazy for these, and I always tell people they’re basically like eating a spicy, moist little holiday cake—minus the fuss. They’re so good, they’ve become part of our Christmas morning tradition, but I’ve been known to bake them in March because that holiday flavor just hits the spot anytime.
How do I make Eggnog Muffins?
Quick Overview
This recipe comes together really quickly, making it perfect for a last-minute festive treat. You’ll start by blending together your wet ingredients—egg, eggnog, melted butter or oil, and a bit of vanilla—then whisking your dry ingredients like flour, sugar, baking powder, and spices. After that, you gently fold everything together without overmixing, spooning the batter into muffin tins, and adding a little extra eggnog on top if you want that extra creamy touch. Bake until they’re golden, and then let them cool just enough before drizzling with a sweet glaze or dusting with powdered sugar. The batter is so forgiving, too—no fancy techniques needed! It’s honestly the kind of recipe that makes you look like a pro in the kitchen without breaking a sweat. Plus, the smell as they bake is pure holiday bliss.
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
- 1 12 cups all-purpose flour — I like to use unbleached for a richer flavor.
- ½ cup granulated sugar — feel free to reduce for less sweetness
- 1 tablespoon baking powder — helps them rise just right
- ½ teaspoon salt — balances all those sweet spices
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon — the warmth of the holidays
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg — the magic spice that really makes it festive
- 2 large eggs — beat these before mixing
- 1 cup eggnog — the star ingredient!
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (or oil if you prefer a lighter texture)
For the Filling:
- Optional: mini chocolate chips or chopped pecans for added texture and flavor
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons eggnog (or milk for a milder glaze)
- A pinch of cinnamon for extra spice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it—I like using baking spray for an even coating. This speeds things up and keeps clean-up minimal. Once preheated, sit back for a second—you’re almost ready to get baking!
“The Easy Holiday Eggnog Muffins for Christmas turned out amazing. My kids asked for seconds. Saving this one!”
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. I always do this first so all the spices and leavening get evenly distributed. The dry mixture should be slightly lumpy, but evenly combined—trust me, it’s worth taking the few extra seconds here.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the eggnog, vanilla, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth and well combined. It’s one of those times where you’ll get a lovely, fragrant mixture—you’ll want to taste it, but I usually resist! This combo creates that luscious, holiday aroma.
Step 4: Combine
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and fold gently with a spatula. Don’t overmix—I keep it just until the batter is combined and no streaks remain. Overmixing can make the muffins dense and rubbery, and nobody wants that. You’re aiming for tender, fluffy muffins, not tough ones!
Step 5: Prepare Filling
If you’re adding extras like mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts, fold them in now. I love adding a handful of pecans for some crunch or a sprinkle of chocolate chips for extra decadence. These are optional, but I highly recommend it.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Spoon about ¾ of the batter into each muffin cup. Then, add a splash of eggnog on top and swirl gently with a toothpick or skewer to create marbled effects—makes them look just so pretty and festive. If you prefer a more uniform muffin, you can just leave it as is, but I like the swirl!
Step 7: Bake
Pop them into the oven and bake for about 20-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them—baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven. When they’re done, the tops should be a lovely golden brown, and your kitchen will fill with that warm, spicy aroma.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. While they’re still warm, whisk together your glaze ingredients and drizzle over the muffins. The glaze adds that glossy, sweet finish and enhances the eggnog flavor.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Serve these muffins warm or at room temperature. I love slicing them open and spreading a little butter or cream cheese, but honestly, they’re delicious all on their own. Add a dusting of powdered sugar or extra cinnamon for a prettier presentation—perfect for holiday brunch or a cozy breakfast in bed.
What to Serve It With
There are so many ways to elevate your Eggnog Muffins. For a lively breakfast, pair them with a strong cup of coffee or a mug of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream—nothing beats that combo on a chilly morning. If you’re serving these at a brunch, set out a platter with fresh fruit, toasted nuts, and perhaps some crispy bacon or sausage on the side. They also make a lovely after-dinner treat—warm and comforting with a dash more cinnamon sprinkled on top. I especially love serving them during holiday gatherings with a side of spiced apple cider or mulled wine. For a quick snack during busy days, these muffins are perfect hot or cold, and I’ve found they freeze beautifully so I can enjoy them even after the season’s over. I already can envision next Christmas morning, these warming up in the oven while I unwrap gifts—there’s just something about that smell that makes everyone smile.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Eggnog Muffins
This recipe is pretty forgiving, but a few tweaks can really make a difference. First, don’t skip the step of gently folding—I’ve overmixed before, and trust me, it affects the fluffiness. When it comes to the spices, I recommend freshly grated nutmeg if you can—nothing beats its aromatic punch. If you want to make these more indulgent, add a splash of vanilla extract or even a dash of rum extract for extra depth.
“Packed with flavor and so simple. Exactly what I wanted from this Easy Holiday Eggnog Muffins for Christmas!”
Another tip is to test your oven’s actual temperature—mine runs a little cool, so I always add a few extra minutes. When in doubt, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, but take them out a little early if they’re still moist—overbaking can dry out these tender muffins. If you notice the tops browning too quickly, tent them with foil for the last few minutes.
For a healthier twist, try swapping out half the flour with whole wheat or using a sugar substitute. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor still carries that festive punch. And if you want to add more moisture, replace part of the eggnog with Greek yogurt or applesauce. Trust me, it’s all about experimenting and finding your favorite version of these little holiday gems!
Storing and Reheating Tips
These muffins are best enjoyed fresh, but you can totally make them ahead. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days—cover loosely with a cloth or paper towel to keep them from getting soggy. If you want them to stay fresh longer, refrigerate for up to a week, just keep them in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out. For even longer storage, slip them into a freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, give them a quick 20-second zap in the microwave or warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes—perfect for that just-baked warmth. If you plan to glaze them afterward, wait until they’re fully cooled so the glaze doesn’t melt off.
Remember, the glaze is best added when they’re cooled—you don’t want it to slide right off. And if you’re making extras, try slicing and toasting them lightly for a crispy texture that’s just divine. These muffins also reheat beautifully, and honestly, I find them tastier on day two because the spices have had more time to meld. It’s a win-win.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason these Eggnog Muffins have become a holiday staple in my home—they’re like a warm hug wrapped in a muffin! The blend of spices, rich eggnog, and tender crumb make every bite a little celebration. I’ve tested and perfected this recipe over the years, and honestly, it never fails to bring smiles (and lots of second helpings). If you’re looking for a holiday breakfast or a sweet gift for friends, this is it. It’s simple enough to make on busy mornings but special enough to serve for a big family gathering. My tip? Double the batch—they’re just that addictive. I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Share your own twists or even your holiday memory with these muffins in the comments—I love hearing all the fun ways people make them their own. Happy baking, friends!
Eggnog Muffins
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.75 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cups granulated sugar
- 0.666 cup butter flavored Crisco
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cups eggnog
- 0.5 cup eggnog
- 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a small bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon together. Set aside.
- In mixing bowl, mix Crisco with granulated sugar until blended. Add eggs. Slowly add in flour mixture and eggnog.
- Lightly spray mini muffin cup pan with baking spray. Fill muffin cups 1/2 full and bake in a 350°F oven for 13-15 minutes. Cool completely.
- Whisk together eggnog, nutmeg, and powdered sugar. Dip tops of muffins into glaze and allow to set (about 15 minutes). ENJOY!
