Creamy Eggnog Panna Cotta

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Creamy Eggnog Panna Cotta is a holiday dessert that wraps the essence of the season in a silky, spoonable treat. It marries the nostalgic, spiced flavor of classic eggnog with the elegance of a panna cotta, making it perfect for holiday parties or a quiet fireside indulgence. With a gentle wobble and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this dessert is both festive and sophisticated.

It’s an ideal make-ahead option that frees up oven space and delivers big flavor without stress. Topped with a cloud of whipped cream and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon, this panna cotta feels like a cozy hug in dessert form. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or looking for something special to treat yourself, this eggnog version of panna cotta delivers warmth and wow factor in every bite.

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What Kind of Eggnog Should I Use?

The best eggnog for this panna cotta is a rich, full-fat version—whether homemade or store-bought. Avoid low-fat varieties as they may not deliver the creamy consistency you need. If you enjoy a boozy note, feel free to use a spiked eggnog or add a splash of rum, bourbon, or brandy during preparation.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Eggnog Panna Cotta

• Eggnog: This is the heart of the recipe. It infuses the panna cotta with warm spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and helps create the smooth, creamy texture that defines a great panna cotta.
• Unflavored Gelatin: Essential for setting the panna cotta without making it rubbery. Gelatin gives that signature silky jiggle.
• Granulated Sugar: Just a touch to enhance the sweetness already present in eggnog.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and rounds out the spice notes in the eggnog.
• Nutmeg or Cinnamon (for garnish): A final sprinkle over the top adds a beautiful aromatic and visual finish.
• Whipped Cream (optional): A fluffy crown that takes this dessert from delightful to dreamy.

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How To Make the Creamy Eggnog Panna Cotta

Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin

Start by sprinkling the unflavored gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes. This allows the gelatin to soften and “bloom,” which is essential for smooth melting later.

Step 2: Heat the Eggnog and Cream

In a saucepan, combine the eggnog and heavy cream. Set the heat to medium and gently warm the mixture, stirring occasionally. Do not let it boil. Once steam begins to rise and tiny bubbles appear at the edges, it’s ready for the next step.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Gelatin

Stir in the sugar and bloomed gelatin. Whisk until the sugar and gelatin are completely dissolved. This may take a minute or two, but be sure there are no visible grains or lumps.

Step 4: Add Vanilla and Optional Spirits

Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. If you’re feeling festive, add a tablespoon of rum, bourbon, or brandy at this point for an adult twist.

Step 5: Pour and Chill

Pour the warm mixture into lightly greased ramekins or serving glasses. Let them cool at room temperature for 10–15 minutes, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

To serve, run a thin knife around the edge of each panna cotta and gently invert onto a plate. Top with whipped cream and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon. If serving in glasses, simply garnish and serve directly.

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Serving and Storing Eggnog Panna Cotta

Eggnog Panna Cotta is best served chilled and fresh from the fridge. Its silky texture and lightly spiced flavor shine most when it’s cold and set just right. If you’re hosting, you can prepare these up to 2 days in advance and keep them covered in the fridge until ready to serve.

To serve, top with freshly whipped cream and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon. For an elegant presentation, invert them onto dessert plates and garnish with cinnamon sticks or crushed gingerbread cookies.

Storage is simple: keep the panna cotta refrigerated and consume within 3 to 4 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture can become grainy once thawed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does panna cotta need to chill?

It needs at least 4 hours to set properly, but overnight is ideal for a firmer texture and deeper flavor development.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the eggnog and cream with plant-based alternatives like almond nog and coconut cream. Just be sure the consistency and fat content are similar to maintain that creamy texture.

Do I have to use gelatin?

Gelatin is traditional for panna cotta, but you can use agar-agar for a vegetarian version. Note that agar sets more firmly and the texture will differ slightly.

What if I want to make it boozy?

Stir in a tablespoon of rum, bourbon, or brandy with the vanilla extract. Keep in mind that too much alcohol can affect how well the panna cotta sets.

Can I serve it in cups instead of unmolding?

Absolutely! Serving in clear glasses is not only easier but also looks stunning. Just garnish and serve straight from the cup.

What toppings work best?

Whipped cream, ground nutmeg, cinnamon, caramel drizzle, or crushed cookies all complement the flavors beautifully.

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Want More Holiday Dessert Ideas?

If this Creamy Eggnog Panna Cotta has you craving more festive desserts, check out some of our seasonal favorites:

• Condensed Milk Snow Cookies for a melt-in-your-mouth winter classic.
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups for a tangy, creamy treat with a pop of color.
• Caramel Cheesecake Cookies if you love rich, chewy bites of cheesecake bliss.
• Old-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie for a nostalgic dessert with a silky custard center.
• Shamrock Mint Milkshake Pie when you’re feeling playful and crave something cool and minty.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you use a store-bought eggnog or make your own? Did you add a splash of bourbon or keep it kid-friendly?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. If you want even more cozy, festive treats, visit me on Pinterest at Life with Jam where I share recipes daily!

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