Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 can (395 g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Optional Ingredients
- 2 egg yolks (for extra richness)
- ¼ cup sugar (if you prefer a sweeter drink)
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso (for a mocha version)
- 1 cup Irish cream liqueur or rum (for an adult version)
How to Prepare the Creamy Vanilla Holiday Drink
1. Heat the Milk and Cream
Add the heavy cream and whole milk to a saucepan and place it over medium-low heat. You do not want the mixture to boil. Warm it gently until it is steaming. The goal is to heat the dairy so the flavors blend smoothly.
2. Add Condensed Milk and Evaporated Milk
Pour in the sweetened condensed milk, which gives the drink its velvety texture and natural sweetness. Then add the evaporated milk for extra creaminess and depth.
Whisk continuously until everything is smooth and uniform.
3. Add Flavorings
Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. These spices bring warmth and aroma, making this drink taste festive and comforting.
4. Optional Rich Version (With Egg Yolks)
If you want a thicker, custard-like drink, whisk 2 egg yolks in a separate bowl. Add a small amount of the warm milk mixture to the eggs while whisking to temper them, then slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan.
Cook on low heat for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Cool the Mixture
Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool for at least 20 minutes. If you want a perfectly silky texture, strain the drink through a fine mesh strainer.
6. Bottle the Drink
Once cooled, pour the mixture into glass bottles like the ones in your image. Seal tightly with a lid. These swing-top bottles are perfect for storage and gifting.
Chill for at least 2–3 hours before serving.
Flavor and Texture
This creamy vanilla holiday drink has:
- A rich, velvety texture
- Sweet but balanced flavor
- Notes of vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg
- A warm, festive aroma
- A silky, smooth finish
It tastes like a mix between custard cream, sweet milk, and vanilla chai without the tea. When chilled, it becomes even smoother, making it ideal to enjoy cold from the fridge.
Serving Ideas
Here are some great ways to serve your homemade drink:
Serve Cold
Pour into a glass with ice for a refreshing creamy drink.
Serve Warm
Heat gently in a mug for a cozy winter treat.
Add Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Cinnamon dust
- Nutmeg sprinkle
- Caramel drizzle
Mix With Coffee
Add ½ cup of the drink to your morning coffee for a creamy latte flavor.
Holiday Cocktail Version
Add 1 shot of Irish cream, rum, or bourbon for a festive adult drink.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate up to 7 days.
- Store in airtight glass bottles.
- Shake well before serving because the mixture may settle.
- Do not freeze—the texture may separate.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Gifting
Bottled creamy drinks like this are very popular during holidays because:
- They look beautiful in glass bottles
- They are homemade and unique
- They stay fresh for a full week
- They make a thoughtful present
- You can decorate the bottles with ribbons, tags, or bows
The bottles in your image are decorated simply with small tied ropes, giving them a rustic, elegant holiday look.
Tips for the Best Result
- Use full-fat products for maximum creaminess
- Add spices gradually and adjust to taste
- Don’t boil the mixture—keep it warm
- Let it chill fully before drinking
- Shake the bottle before serving