As the year winds down, and the glow of the holidays surrounds us, National Eggnog Day gives us the perfect excuse to sip, reflect, and revel in how far we’ve come. Eggnog, with its rich, velvety texture, has been a holiday favorite for centuries, and this year, we’re giving it a plant-based twist. Think of it as the lovechild of traditional eggnog and coquito—silky, smooth, and just indulgent enough to make you feel like royalty. But before we dive into the recipe, let’s have a little story time because this year, like a glass of sparkling wine, deserves to be savored.
F-U-N-N Fact: The History of Eggnog (and Coquito)
Eggnog originated from the medieval British drink “posset,” a hot, creamy ale mixture consumed as a cure for colds and a way to toast life’s wins. When it crossed the Atlantic, it transformed into the eggnog we know today, with rich dairy, spices, and (if you were lucky) a splash of rum or whiskey.
Meanwhile, in Puerto Rico, coquito made its mark as the Caribbean’s answer to eggnog. Coquito translates to “little coconut” and swaps the dairy for luscious coconut milk and cream, blended with rum and spices, making it the tropical escape we all need in the middle of winter. Our version today honors both traditions while keeping it plant-based, luxurious, and unforgettable—because, honestly, why should dairy have all the fun?
Reflection: What 2024 Taught Me
This year, I realized I might just be superwoman. Despite every trial and tribulation, I hit milestones that felt like dreams only months ago. I learned where strength resides—deep within me. I saw God’s role in my life not just as a guide but as my homie. You know, the kind of homie who shows up, takes the wheel, and says, “I got you.”
I found faith—not just in the divine but in myself. I big up my ancestors and spirit guides every single day because they’ve carried me, whispered truths, and reminded me that resilience is my superpower. 2024 taught me to stay grounded, live authentically, and remember that nobody can steal my shine because opinions are as stale as cork-tainted sparkling wine. 2024’s glass may be cracked, but the blessings are overflowing.
The Recipe: Boozy Plant-Based Eggnog
A decadent blend of tradition and innovation, this eggnog is silky, sweet, and spiced to perfection. Perfect for sipping as you toast to a year of growth and revelations.
Ingredients
• 3 cups cashew milk (or almond-coconut blend for added richness)
• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
• ½ cup coconut cream
• ½ cup top-shelf dark rum (like Zacapa for caramel notes)
• ¼ cup bourbon (try Woodford Reserve for a smoky finish)
• ¼ cup Amaretto (adds a nutty sweetness)
• ½ cup organic maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
1. Blend the cashew milk, coconut milk, and coconut cream until smooth.
2. Add the maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Blend until the spices are fully incorporated.
3. Slowly add the rum, bourbon, and Amaretto while blending on low.
4. Chill for at least 2 hours. Serve in a chilled glass, topped with a dusting of nutmeg and a cinnamon stick.
The Pairing: Truffle Crostini with Cashew Ricotta
Nothing complements a smooth eggnog better than a bite of savory elegance. This truffle crostini is plant-based luxury on a plate.
Cashew Ricotta Recipe
• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked overnight and drained)
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 small garlic clove
• ¼ tsp sea salt
• ¼ cup water (add more if needed for texture)
Blend all the ingredients until creamy. Adjust salt and lemon juice to taste.
Crostini Assembly
• Toast thin slices of sourdough bread.
• Spread each slice with cashew ricotta.
• Drizzle with truffle oil.
• Top with chives and cracked black pepper.
The creamy ricotta and earthy truffle oil create the perfect bite to balance the sweet, spiced notes of the eggnog.
Sip, Reflect, and Revel
As I sip this eggnog and nibble on truffle crostini, I’m reminded of what 2024 brought me—strength, clarity, and a deeper connection to my purpose. I’m one step closer to my dream, and 2025 feels like it’s dripping with promise.
Here’s to laid wigs, lifted spirits, and overflowing blessings. Cheers to you and your glow-up!
Alexa, play: “Flawless” by Beyoncé.
Because darling, this is how you end a year—with gratitude, growth, and a glass full of greatness.
