Milk punch sounds strange until you try one. It's a New Orleans brunch staple — creamy, cold, lightly sweet, and surprisingly easy to drink. Here's the non-alcoholic version.
What You Need
- 2 oz No. 86 Non-Alcoholic Whiskey
- 4 oz whole milk (or half-and-half for richer)
- ¾ oz simple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Ice
- Rocks glass or short glass
- Fresh nutmeg to garnish
How to Make It
- Combine No. 86, milk, simple syrup, and vanilla extract in a shaker with ice.
- Shake hard for 12 seconds — you want it frothy and cold.
- Strain into a glass over fresh ice.
- Grate fresh nutmeg over the top. A pinch of cinnamon also works.
Why It Works
No. 86's vanilla and oak notes are naturally at home in a milk-based drink. The milk softens the bitters edge and creates a smooth, rounded texture. The vanilla extract amplifies what's already in No. 86. The nutmeg on top ties everything together with a spiced note that makes the whole drink smell like something worth drinking.
Whole Milk vs Half-and-Half
Whole milk makes a lighter punch. Half-and-half makes it richer and creamier — closer to a thin eggnog. Both work. Half-and-half is better for brunch; whole milk is better if you're having more than one.
Batch Version
Milk punch is one of the best batch cocktails there is and actually improves after sitting in the fridge overnight. Combine No. 86, milk, syrup, and vanilla in a large jar. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Shake or stir before serving. Pour over ice and grate nutmeg on top.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does milk punch taste like?
Creamy, lightly sweet, with a whiskey warmth in the background. It's closer to a milkshake than a traditional cocktail — which is why it works so well at brunch or as a dessert drink.
Can I use oat milk or almond milk?
Yes. Oat milk is the best dairy-free substitute — it has a natural sweetness and enough body to work. Almond milk is thinner. Avoid coconut milk unless you want the coconut flavor in the drink.
Do I need fresh nutmeg?
Pre-ground nutmeg works but fresh grated nutmeg is noticeably more fragrant. A small whole nutmeg and a microplane grater is a $6 purchase that improves every milk punch and eggnog you ever make.
Creamy. Cold. Unexpected.
No. 86 makes a milk punch worth making — the New Orleans brunch ritual, without the whiskey.
→ Shop No. 86 — from $35.99
Make this recipe with No. 86 non-alcoholic whiskey — built for cocktails like this one.