Eggnog Panna Cotta with Spiked Cranberry Sauce for the Holidays

January 15, 2026

Eggnog Panna Cotta with Spiked Cranberry Sauce is my go-to dessert for the holidays. The first time I made it, my family couldn’t stop raving about the creamy texture and the festive flavors. The combination of silky eggnog and tart cranberry creates a delightful balance that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. This no-bake eggnog dessert is perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or cozy winter evenings. The aroma of nutmeg and vanilla wafting through the kitchen instantly transports me to holiday memories. It’s a show-stopping treat that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Panna Cotta with

This dessert is not only delicious but also easy to make and perfect for festive occasions. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this eggnog panna cotta recipe:

Rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Perfect balance of sweet eggnog and tart cranberry.
No-bake recipe making it a stress-free option.
Can be made ahead of time to save you time.
Impressive presentation for holiday gatherings.
Family-friendly and loved by both kids and adults.
Can be adapted to be a vegan eggnog panna cotta.
Great for serving alongside other festive eggnog desserts.

Ingredients for Eggnog Panna Cotta with

Here’s everything you need for this creamy eggnog panna cotta:

1 cup eggnog – the star ingredient giving this dessert its rich flavor.
1 cup heavy cream – adds a luxurious creaminess to the panna cotta.
2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin – essential for setting the panna cotta.
3 tablespoons granulated sugar – sweetness to balance the flavors.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor profile.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – adds the perfect touch of spice for the holidays.
1 cup fresh cranberries – tartness for the topping.
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for cranberry sauce) – for sweetening the tart cranberries.
1 tablespoon orange liqueur – a splash for added flavor in the sauce.
1 teaspoon orange zest – brightens up the sauce.
2 tablespoons water – to help cook the cranberries down.

Delicious Eggnog Panna Cotta with Spiked Cranberry Sauce in a glass, ready for the holidays

How to Make Eggnog Panna Cotta with

Step 1: Sprinkle gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. Let it bloom for 5 minutes.
Step 2: In a saucepan, combine eggnog, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and nutmeg over medium heat. Stir until warm and sugar is dissolved. Do not boil.
Step 3: Remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved.
Step 4: Pour the mixture into ramekins or glasses and chill for at least 4 hours or until set.
Step 5: To make the cranberry sauce, combine fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, orange zest, and water in a saucepan. Simmer until cranberries burst and sauce thickens.
Step 6: Remove from heat and stir in orange liqueur. Let cool completely.
Step 7: Spoon the sauce over set panna cotta and serve. Garnish if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Eggnog Panna Cotta with

These tricks guarantee success every time:

Chill the panna cotta overnight for the best texture.
Use fresh cranberries for the sauce for vibrant color and taste.
Adjust the sweetness of the cranberry sauce to your preference.

Close-up of creamy Eggnog Panna Cotta with Spiked Cranberry Sauce, garnished with mint

What’s the secret to perfect Eggnog Panna Cotta with?

The key is to ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved before pouring the mixture into your serving dishes. This will result in a smooth and creamy texture.

Can I make Eggnog Panna Cotta with ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the panna cotta a day or two in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Eggnog Panna Cotta with?

Avoid boiling the mixture as that can affect the gelatin’s ability to set. Also, ensure the gelatin is fully bloomed for the best results.

Best Ways to Serve Eggnog Panna Cotta with

For an elegant presentation, serve your holiday eggnog panna cotta in individual glasses topped with the spiked cranberry sauce. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence. Pair it with gingerbread cookies or a slice of rich fruitcake to enhance the festive experience.

Nutrition Facts for Eggnog Panna Cotta with

Per serving (recipe makes 4 servings):

Calories: 310
Protein: 4g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 26g
Sodium: 50mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Eggnog Panna Cotta with

To store your eggnog panna cotta variations, cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can enjoy them cold or let them sit at room temperature for a bit before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eggnog Panna Cotta with

Can I freeze Eggnog Panna Cotta with?

Yes, you can freeze the panna cotta, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If freezing, make sure to store it in airtight containers.

What can I substitute for gelatin in Eggnog Panna Cotta with?

You can use agar-agar as a vegetarian alternative to gelatin. Follow the package instructions for the equivalent amount.

Can I make this Eggnog Panna Cotta with dairy-free ingredients?

Definitely! Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of eggnog and heavy cream for a vegan eggnog panna cotta.

What is eggnog panna cotta?

Eggnog panna cotta is a delightful twist on traditional panna cotta, incorporating the rich flavors of eggnog into a creamy dessert that sets beautifully.

Variations of Eggnog Panna Cotta with You Can Try

There are several fun variations of eggnog panna cotta with nutmeg that you can experiment with. Consider adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for a more robust flavor. You can also drizzle chocolate sauce on top or make a vegan version using plant-based milks and sweeteners.