Easy Eggnog Milkshake (Copycat McDonald’s)

Made at home and in minutes, your favorite creamy eggnog milkshake from McDonald’s! This eggnog shake tastes better than the popular seasonal fast-food treat, using fresh ingredients, saving you money!

Eggnog is a family favorite. Try my other eggnog recipes like these eggnog gooey butter cookies, eggnog pie (no-bake)! and and this classic Eggnog latte (Starbucks copycat!)

Whether you love traditional eggnog or homemade eggnog, I am guessing you are here because eggnog is your jam! Mine too!

I enjoy giving precise details in my recipe posts to lead my readers through any questions. If you’re just here for the printable recipe, use the Jump to Recipe to head straight there!

How to Make McDonald’s Eggnog Milkshake

Start this McDonald’s eggnog shake copycat recipe by adding the vanilla ice cream, egg nog, nutmeg, and vanilla extract to a blender, combining until the ingredients are well mixed, about 45-60 seconds.

If adding alcohol, remove the stopper from the top and slowly drizzle the alcohol while mixing.

Next, pour the McDonald’s eggnog shake into a tall glass and add your favorite garnishes, like creamy whipped topping, freshly grated nutmeg, or a pinch of cinnamon. Then, indulge!

Craving more seasonal beverage recipes? Try my Starbucks Copycat Eggnog Latte and White Hot Chocolate Recipe, inspired by the Starbucks favorite. Or, try this Christmas morning chai latte (so good and not just for Christmas morning).

Variations & Substitutions

• Make your milkshake extra thick by reducing the eggnog to ½ cup.
• Add ½ teaspoon of rum extract for a non-alcoholic boozy version.
• Use eggnog ice cream for more delicious eggnog flavor!
• Add a wafer cookie straw or maraschino cherry on top. Other lovely garnishes are cinnamon sticks and a sweet syrup or sauce, like a salted caramel drizzle or chocolate fudge.
• Add a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and allspice are delicious spices to add to the recipe for even more holiday flavor.

Dairy-Free Eggnog Shake Recipe

For a dairy-free or vegan eggnog milkshake, use plant-based eggnog and your favorite dairy-free ice cream.

Boozy Eggnog Milkshake with Bailey’s Irish Cream

Make a boozy milkshake with a shot or two of Bailey’s. Or use your favorite bourbon, brandy, or dark rum for a boozy eggnog shake.

Chocolate Eggnog Milkshake

Make using chocolate ice cream instead of vanilla, or add 2-3 tablespoons of cocoa powder to a regular eggnog milkshake. 

Storage Tips

Refrigerate – Since this is a frozen treat, storing in the fridge will result in a yummy liquid, but not a frozen ice cream shake.

Freeze – If you have a leftover shake, keep it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, set it on the counter for 10 minutes to soften, then place it back in the blender for the best results.

Can you freeze a milkshake for later?

Any milkshake tastes its best when it is freshly made. However, you can save a milkshake by freezing it. Transfer the recipe to an air-tight container and keep it in the freezer for up to a few months. Then, place it on the counter at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften, re-whip, and enjoy it once more! Remember that the freezing process will affect the creamy texture. 

• As the ice cream melts, the ingredients may separate. But that’s nothing that a little bit of mixing can’t fix!
• Do your future self a favor by marking the container with the expiration date or use-by date. It’s too easy to lose time during the holiday season!
• A great way to avoid the ice crystals and preserve the milkshake mixture after freezing for a while is by placing a piece of parchment paper directly on the shake and then sealing it with the lid.
• If you use plant-based milk, like almond milk or coconut milk, the texture may be more grainy than regular frozen milk, so be sure to blend it before serving again.
• If you don’t have a freezer-safe container, try using a large bowl covered with plastic wrap, a freezer bag, glass containers, or popsicle molds. Avoid freezing the milkshakes in the serving glasses, though.
• Store the milkshake in the main part of the freezer, where it is far from the freezer door, to save the quality of the drink.

Best holiday treats to serve with McDonald’s eggnog shake

The holidays are for indulging, having a caroling party, and serving these creamy milkshakes. Try all of my holiday sweets!

Below are a few of our favorites: Cranberry Christmas Cake, Pfeffernusse Cookies, Crockpot Peanut Clusters, and more!

More Eggnog Recipes for the Holidays

• Easy No-Bake Eggnog Pie Recipe
• Eggnog Gooey Butter Cookies (from scratch)
• Eggnog Coffee Cake Recipe 
• Eggnog Scones with White Chocolate Glaze

I hope you loved this McDonald’s Eggnog Milkshake — if you did, would you share your creation on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest? And be sure to comment below!