Dr. Pepper Eggnog

Growing up, I tried plenty of holiday drinks that felt warm and familiar, but every now and then something completely unexpected would show up. The Dr. Pepper Eggnog Cocktail is one of those fun surprises that stops you in your tracks. The first time I tasted it, I had no clue what I was getting into, but one sip was enough to make me get the hype. The mix of fizzy Dr. Pepper and smooth eggnog turns into a sweet, spiced drink that feels part dessert, part Christmas treat, and totally worth trying.

I love this recipe because it offers a break from the heavier, more traditional eggnog cocktails. It still has that warm, nostalgic eggnog flavor, but the carbonation gives it a lighter, more refreshing feel. This makes it perfect for holiday parties, especially when you want a drink that feels festive without being overly rich. It’s also incredibly simple to make, so you can mix it quickly between greeting guests or preparing holiday snacks.

---

Why You’ll Love This

This Dr. Pepper Eggnog Cocktail mixes two nostalgic flavors into one fun holiday drink. It is easy to build, completely adjustable, and surprisingly delicious for something so simple.

The combination of eggnog’s creamy texture and Dr. Pepper’s spiced profile creates a drink that feels familiar but new at the same time.

A few reasons it’s worth adding to your eggnog cocktail lineup:

• Only two main ingredients make prep quick and stress free.
• Works as a mocktail or a cocktail depending on the eggnog you use.
• Fizzy Dr. Pepper cuts the richness of eggnog beautifully.
• A great conversation starter at Christmas parties.
• Layers well with toppings like whipped cream and nutmeg.

It is the kind of holiday recipe that guests remember because it’s unexpected and delicious.

Ingredients

Even though the ingredient list is short, each part plays a key role in shaping the creamy, sweet, lightly spiced flavor of this Christmas cocktail.

The fizz from Dr. Pepper gives the drink lift, while the eggnog brings the classic holiday feel. Whipped cream and nutmeg help create that dessert cocktail finish.

• 4-6 ounces Dr.Pepper
• 4-6 ounces eggnog
• whipped cream
• whole nutmeg cloves

The ingredient amounts depend on the size of your glass, but equal parts of soda and eggnog give you the best balance. Freshly grated nutmeg makes a big difference in aroma, so try not to skip it.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

This drink can go in several directions depending on whether you prefer a mocktail or cocktail version. Eggnog itself is available in many varieties, including boozy options, so you can choose what fits your gathering best. Here are some helpful recommendations:

• Eggnog with Alcohol: Evan Williams Eggnog is a popular premade version that already contains bourbon and rum.
• Non Alcoholic Eggnog: Hood, Southern Comfort (non alcoholic version), and local dairy brands all work well.
• If Adding Spirits: Use 2 oz of bourbon for warmth or spiced rum for a sweeter Christmas flavor.
• Soda Swap: Dr. Pepper Cream Soda can add an extra rich vanilla layer.
• Whipped Cream: Homemade whipped cream tastes the best and melts more slowly on top.

If you’d like to make your own eggnog, you can check our Traditional Eggnog Recipe for a fresh, homemade base.

These options let you easily adjust the drink based on who you’re serving.

Equipment and Glassware

Part of the charm of this recipe is how little equipment you need. Everything comes together directly in the glass, which makes it perfect for parties or casual winter evenings.

Helpful items include:

• Jigger
• Bar Spoon
• Highball Glass
• Grater

A clear glass is especially nice because it shows off the creamy, bubbly mixture.

How to Make It

This recipe is beginner friendly and only takes a minute or two to prepare. The trick is simply getting the ratio right and stirring gently so the carbonation does not disappear too quickly. You can add toppings right before serving to make the drink feel extra festive.

1. Fill your glass with crushed ice.
2. Pour equal parts Dr. Pepper and eggnog over the ice, about 4 to 6 ounces of each depending on the size of your glass.
3. Stir the mixture gently to combine.
4. Top with whipped cream.
5. Grate fresh nutmeg over the top and serve immediately.

If you are adding alcohol, stir it in before topping with whipped cream.

Pro Tips

A little technique can make this cocktail even better, especially since eggnog can be thick and soda can lose fizz if stirred too aggressively. These small adjustments help the flavor stay balanced and smooth.

• Use crushed ice for a lighter, milkshake like texture.
• Pour the Dr. Pepper first, then the eggnog, for easier blending.
• Stir gently to keep some carbonation.
• Choose a high quality eggnog for the smoothest finish.
• Keep both ingredients chilled so the drink tastes crisp.
• Add a caramel drizzle inside the glass for a dessert vibe.
• Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top for extra holiday sweetness.

These tips help you fine tune the drink to your perfect holiday flavor.

Variations

One of the best parts of this Dr. Pepper Eggnog Cocktail is how customizable it is. Whether you want more spice, more sweetness, or added spirits, you have plenty of options.

• Add bourbon or spiced rum for a classic boozy eggnog version.
• Use diet Dr. Pepper if you want a lighter drink.
• Add vanilla extract or cinnamon syrup for extra holiday flavor.
• Use vanilla ice cream instead of whipped cream for a float style drink.
• Swap Dr. Pepper for root beer if you prefer a softer spice profile.

These variations keep the drink fun and flexible for any winter gathering.

When to Serve and Pairings

This drink works beautifully at Christmas parties, tree decorating nights, winter movie marathons, and cookie exchanges. It is also a great choice for holiday dessert bars because it tastes like a drinkable treat. The rich, creamy flavor pairs well with many seasonal snacks.

Perfect pairings include:

• Chocolate chip cookies or sugar cookies
• Snickerdoodles or cinnamon rolls
• Peppermint bark or chocolate truffles
• Other eggnog cocktails like Eggnog Martini or Spiked Eggnog
• Classic homemade eggnog

These pairings help create a full holiday spread with both sweet and festive flavors.

Storage and Serving Notes

Since this recipe relies on soda, it is best served immediately while the carbonation is still active. You can prepare garnishes and chilled ingredients ahead of time, but mix the drink right before serving. If making for a group, set up an “eggnog soda bar” so guests can mix their own ratio.

• Do not batch the drink because the soda will go flat.
• Keep eggnog refrigerated until use.
• Always grate nutmeg fresh for the best aroma.
• Serve over crushed ice to keep the texture light.

Simple steps like these help the drink taste its best from the first sip to the last.

FAQs

If you are trying this fun holiday cocktail for the first time, here are some helpful answers to common questions.

Does this drink taste like Dr. Pepper?
Yes, but the eggnog softens the soda’s spice and makes it taste creamier and more dessert like.

Can I make this without dairy?
Yes, use dairy free eggnog varieties made from almond, oat, or coconut milk.

Does the drink curdle?
No, as long as both ingredients are cold and stirred gently, the texture stays smooth.

Is the alcoholic version strong?
Adding 2 oz of bourbon or spiced rum gives it a noticeable kick but stays balanced because of the sweetness.

Can I serve it warm?
This recipe is best cold. Warm soda will lose its fizz and change the flavor.

More Cocktails to Try

If you enjoy creative eggnog cocktails and festive Christmas drinks, here are a few more holiday recipes to explore. Each one brings comforting seasonal flavors in its own way.

• Classic Homemade Eggnog: Smooth, creamy, and perfect for holiday purists.
• Mrs. Claus’s Eggnog: A rich, elegant twist for dessert cocktail lovers.
• Gingerbread Eggnog: A cozy blend of warm spices and creamy eggnog.
• Gingerbread White Russian: A winter dessert drink with gingerbread spice.
• Milk N’ Cookies: Sweet, nostalgic, and fun for holiday celebrations.