No-Bake Eggnog Pie is the perfect make-ahead dessert for the holidays creamy, lightly spiced, and filled with the nostalgic flavor of eggnog in every bite. It requires no oven time, comes together in just a few minutes, and sets beautifully in the fridge, freeing you up to focus on the rest of your holiday menu.
With a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth eggnog filling, and a dollop of whipped topping plus a sprinkle of nutmeg, this pie brings all the comfort and flavor of traditional eggnog in an elegant, effortless form. Whether it’s Christmas Eve or a cozy winter gathering, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 box (3.4 oz) vanilla instant pudding mix
- 1 ¾ cups cold prepared eggnog
- 1 cup frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 1 graham cracker pie crust
- Additional frozen whipped topping, thawed, for serving (optional)
- Ground nutmeg, for serving (optional)
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Whisk the pudding and eggnog
In a large bowl, pour in the cold eggnog and whisk in the vanilla instant pudding mix. Use a hand whisk or electric mixer for 1–2 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened. Let it sit for a few minutes so the pudding can fully activate and the mixture begins to set.
Step 2: Fold in whipped topping
Once the pudding mixture is thickened, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping. Use a spatula and light, folding motions to keep the texture airy and smooth. The combination of creamy pudding and whipped topping creates a silky, mousse-like filling that captures the rich flavor of eggnog without being heavy.
Step 3: Fill the crust
Spoon the mixture into the graham cracker crust and spread it evenly with the back of the spoon or a rubber spatula. Smooth out the top so it looks clean and even.
Step 4: Chill and set
Refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours, or until firm enough to slice neatly. For best results, you can also chill it overnight the texture becomes even smoother and creamier as it sets.
Step 5: Serve and garnish
Before serving, top each slice (or the entire pie) with an extra layer of whipped topping if desired. Sprinkle lightly with ground nutmeg for a festive touch and a hint of warm spice. Serve straight from the fridge, keeping leftovers chilled.
Expert Tips for Success
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Use cold eggnog: Cold liquid helps the pudding set faster and more evenly. If your eggnog is room temperature, refrigerate it for a little while before mixing.
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Avoid overmixing: Gently fold in the whipped topping to maintain that light, fluffy texture. Overmixing can make the filling dense.
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Homemade crust option: For extra flavor, make your own crust by combining 1½ cups crushed graham crackers with 6 tablespoons melted butter and pressing it into a pie dish. Chill before adding the filling.
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Firm slices: If you plan to serve perfect slices, let the pie chill overnight the pudding and whipped topping mixture stabilizes beautifully by the next day.
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Add holiday flair: Garnish each serving with shaved chocolate curls, sugared cranberries, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a festive upgrade.
Tasty Variations to Try
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Spiked version: Stir in a splash (1–2 tablespoons) of rum extract or real dark rum for a grown-up twist reminiscent of classic eggnog cocktails.
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Gingerbread crust: Use ginger snap cookies instead of graham crackers for a warm, slightly spicy base.
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Chocolate eggnog pie: Fold 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder into the pudding mixture before adding the whipped topping for a chocolate-holiday fusion flavor.
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Mini pies: Spoon the mixture into small tart shells or individual ramekins for easy holiday party servings.
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Whipped cream topping: Replace store-bought whipped topping with freshly whipped cream for a richer, homemade finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pie in advance?
Yes! No-bake eggnog pie is ideal for make-ahead prep. You can prepare it up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate until ready to serve. Wait to add the whipped topping and nutmeg garnish until just before serving.
Can I use homemade eggnog?
Absolutely. Homemade eggnog adds beautiful depth and freshness. Just make sure it’s well-chilled before mixing with the pudding, and ensure it’s not too thick so the texture stays smooth.
Can I make this without whipped topping?
You can substitute an equal amount of homemade whipped cream (sweetened, if desired). Use about 1 cup heavy cream whipped to soft peaks. It will give a slightly richer, more natural flavor.
Does it freeze well?
Yes. Cover the pie tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. The texture will be slightly denser but still delicious.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Keep the pie chilled until serving and avoid letting it sit at room temperature for long periods. You can also brush the crust lightly with melted chocolate before filling it creates a barrier and adds a delicious surprise.
Print
No-Bake Eggnog Pie
- Total Time: 190
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive, creamy pie with all the cozy flavors of eggnog in a silky, mousse-like filling over a buttery graham cracker crust. Light, smooth, and perfectly spiced, ideal for Christmas or make-ahead treats.
Ingredients
- 1 box (3.4 oz) vanilla instant pudding mix
- 1¾ cups cold prepared eggnog
- 1 cup frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 1 graham cracker pie crust
- Additional whipped topping, for serving (optional)
- Ground nutmeg, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Whisk pudding mix and cold eggnog in a bowl for 1–2 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened. Let rest a few minutes to firm up.
- Gently fold in thawed whipped topping with a spatula, keeping mixture light and airy.
- Spoon filling evenly into graham cracker crust. Smooth top with spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight for best results.
- Before serving, top with extra whipped topping and a dusting of nutmeg. Keep chilled until ready to serve.
Notes
Use cold eggnog for proper pudding thickening.
Avoid overmixing whipped topping to keep it fluffy.
Homemade crust can be made with 1½ cups crushed graham crackers and 6 tbsp melted butter.
Chill overnight for best texture and clean slices.
Optional garnish: shaved chocolate or caramel drizzle for elegance.
- Prep Time: 10
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: no bake eggnog pie, holiday dessert, christmas pie, easy eggnog recipe, make ahead holiday pies, creamy festive desserts
