Cannabis-Infused Eggnog: A Cozy, Low-Dose Holiday Classic

Eggnog is one of those nostalgic holiday staples—rich, creamy, and meant to be shared. For generations, it’s been associated with spiced rum or brandy, served alongside twinkling lights and well-worn family traditions. But as more people rethink their relationship with alcohol, many hosts are exploring new ways to keep holiday gatherings festive without the next-day fog.

This cannabis-infused eggnog offers a cozy, alcohol-free alternative designed for adults who are curious, cautious, or simply looking for a gentler way to unwind. Whether you choose a low-dose THC option or a calming CBD infusion, this recipe is all about choice, comfort, and mindful enjoyment—no pressure, no pretension.

If you’re new to cooking with cannabis, you’re in the right place. I’ll walk you through a flexible infusion approach, beginner-friendly dosing tips, and a homemade eggnog recipe that’s become a holiday favorite in my own kitchen.

Hosting with heart means meeting your guests where they are—and giving them the confidence to enjoy something new, safely and joyfully.

What You’ll Need to Make Cannabis-Infused Eggnog

I’ve been making a homemade eggnog recipe inspired by Tastes Better From Scratch for years, then adapting it into a naturally sweetened, cannabis-infused version by replacing granulated sugar with infused honey and slightly boosting the vanilla for extra warmth and aroma. Honey is a popular infusion medium because cannabinoids bind well to fats and sugars, making it effective and versatile for cooking and beverages ¹.

Ingredients

• 6 large egg yolks
  These give eggnog its signature rich, creamy texture.
• ½ cup cannabis-infused honey
  A smooth, approachable way to add cannabis while maintaining control over sweetness and potency ¹ and serves as the primary infusion method for this recipe. See our →  Weed-Infused Honey Guide
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  Creates a luxurious mouthfeel. Full-fat coconut cream works well for dairy-free versions.
• 2 cups milk
  Dairy milk or plant-based (almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk), depending on preference.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg & pinch of cinnamon
  These spices give eggnog its warm, festive flavor. Nutmeg has traditionally been associated with digestive comfort and relaxation, while cinnamon is widely used for its antioxidant-rich culinary profile and warming spice notes ⁶⁷.
• Pinch of salt
  A small but essential addition that balances sweetness.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
  Vanilla enhances aroma and rounds out the flavor profile.
• Ground cinnamon, for garnish

Why These Ingredients Matter (A Culinary Perspective)

Great eggnog isn’t just about indulgence—it’s about balance. Each ingredient plays a role in creating a drink that feels both nostalgic and intentional.

• Egg yolks provide body and silkiness, giving homemade eggnog its classic custard-like texture.
• Infused honey softens spices while delivering a gentle, consistent infusion without overpowering the drink.
• Nutmeg and cinnamon bring warmth and depth, enhancing aroma and flavor in ways that feel grounding and festive rather than sharp or sweet-forward.
• Vanilla rounds everything out, tying the flavors together and contributing to that familiar, comforting holiday scent.

This thoughtful balance is what makes homemade eggnog feel special—especially when serving guests with varying comfort levels around cannabis.

Infusion Alternatives (Choose What Fits Your Comfort Level)

While this recipe features cannabis-infused honey as its primary infusion method, it’s not the only option. If honey isn’t your preference—or if you want flexibility when serving guests—these alternatives work well.

• Cannabis-infused milk (canna-milk)
  You can make canna-milk by gently steeping decarboxylated cannabis into milk or cream. Higher-fat dairy or coconut milk works best, as cannabinoids like THC and CBD bind to fat, helping create a more consistent infusion ².
• THC or CBD tinctures
  One of the easiest options for beginners. Tinctures allow guests to control their own dose by adding drops to individual servings, making them ideal for mixed-comfort gatherings ³.

Shop GBL Marketplace Tinctures Collection

Hosting Tip:
If using infused milk or tinctures instead of infused honey, add ½ cup sugar, coconut sugar, or maple syrup to maintain balanced sweetness.If you don’t want to make or use weed-infused honey, there are several ways to infuse cannabis into your nog. 

Guide to Preparing Your Infused Eggnog

Making eggnog might seem intimidating, but you’ll be amazed at how simple it is! And once you taste it, I promise you’ll never go back to the store-bought stuff.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Whisk the yolks and honey - In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks and infused honey until smooth and slightly thickened.

2. Warm the dairy - In a saucepan, warm the cream, milk, nutmeg, and salt over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.

3. Temper the eggs - Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking continuously to prevent curdling. (If your saucepan doesn’t have a spout, transfer it to a liquid measuring cup first so you can control the stream and avoid splashing too much hot milk in, which will lead to scrambled eggs!)

4. Thicken gently - Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Be careful not to let it boil!

5. Finish with vanilla - Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Serve warm for immediate comfort or chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours. Top with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for a classic presentation.

Enjoying Cannabis-Infused Eggnog Responsibly

Although cannabis-infused eggnog is alcohol-free, it still deserves thoughtful handling—especially when hosting. Cannabis drinks are increasingly discussed as alternatives to alcohol, but they differ in onset time, duration, and intensity ⁵.

• Clearly label infused beverages
• Note approximate milligrams per serving
• Store leftovers safely, out of reach of children and pets

Infused Eggnog Effects & Why Some Hosts Prefer It

Research shows that orally consumed cannabis is metabolized differently than inhaled forms, often resulting in a slower onset and longer-lasting effects ⁴. This makes low-dose beverages easier to pace during social gatherings.

For many hosts, cannabis-infused drinks aren’t about intoxication—they’re about offering a thoughtful, alcohol-free option that supports relaxed conversation and connection.

Common Cannabis-Infused Eggnog Questions

Explore More Cannabis-Friendly Holiday Recipes

If you enjoyed this recipe and want more approachable, stigma-free guidance on cannabis cooking, entertaining, and everyday wellness, I invite you to subscribe to the Green Bee Life newsletter. You’ll receive seasonal recipes, beginner-friendly education, and trusted resources designed to help you explore cannabis at your own pace.

This guide is intended for educational and culinary purposes only. Infusion techniques, potency calculations, and serving suggestions are based on widely accepted practices in cannabis cooking and home infusion. Always consume responsibly and adjust dosing according to your personal comfort and experience level.

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