Dessert

Eggnog Panna Cotta with Nutmeg Whipped Cream Recipe

ByHarper Ellington December 4, 2025December 4, 2025

Introduction

Eggnog Panna Cotta with Nutmeg Whipped Cream is a creamy, festive dessert perfect for holiday gatherings. This smooth Italian treat is infused with classic eggnog flavors and topped with a spiced whipped cream that adds warmth and elegance to every bite.

Two clear round glasses filled with a creamy yellow layer of eggnog, topped with a fluffy white swirl of whipped cream sprinkled with brown nutmeg. The glasses sit on a dark grey textured surface surrounded by pinecones and green pine leaves, with warm bokeh lights softly glowing in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups eggnog
1/2 cup heavy cream (for panna cotta)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) unflavored gelatin
3 tablespoons cold water
1 cup heavy cream (for whipped cream)
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus more for garnish)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine cold water and gelatin. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.
Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, mix eggnog, 1/2 cup heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until sugar dissolves and mixture is warm, but do not let it boil.
Step 3: Remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.
Step 4: Pour the mixture evenly into serving glasses or molds. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
Step 5: To make the whipped cream, combine 1 cup heavy cream, powdered sugar, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Whip with a hand or stand mixer until soft peaks form. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
Step 6: If using molds, run a knife around edges and dip bottoms in warm water briefly to loosen panna cotta, then invert onto plates.
Step 7: Spoon the nutmeg whipped cream over the panna cotta and sprinkle with additional ground nutmeg for garnish.
Step 8: Serve chilled and enjoy this festive dessert!

Tips & Variations

Use fresh nutmeg for a more vibrant flavor in the whipped cream.
For a boozy twist, add a splash of rum or bourbon to the panna cotta mixture before chilling.
Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you prefer a lighter panna cotta.
Make individual servings in clear glasses for an elegant presentation.

Storage

Store any leftover panna cotta covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Whipped cream is best used fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Re-chill the panna cotta before serving; do not freeze as it can affect the texture.

How to Serve

Two small clear glass cups are filled with a thick creamy pale yellow drink. Each cup has a swirl of white whipped cream on top sprinkled with fine brown spice powder. The drinks sit on a dark surface with pinecones, star anise, and green pine leaves around them, while soft yellow lights glow softly in the blurred background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe relies on gelatin and dairy-based eggnog, so it’s not naturally vegan. However, you can use agar-agar as a gelatin substitute and plant-based eggnog and cream alternatives to make a vegan version.

How do I know when the panna cotta is fully set?

The panna cotta should be firm to the touch and slightly jiggly after chilling for at least 4 hours. If it still feels liquid, refrigerate longer until fully set.