ALDI’s Non-Dairy Almond Nog Returns for the Holidays—and Shoppers Are Split

A seasonal holiday drink with a surprisingly polarizing reputation

The winter holidays bring a steady stream of festive beverages, and eggnog remains one of the most recognizable. Traditionally, eggnog is made with eggs, sugar, milk, and cream, creating a rich, thick drink that many people associate with seasonal gatherings. Over time, plant-based versions have become more common, offering a dairy-free option that still aims to capture that familiar holiday feel.

Non-dairy eggnog hasn’t always had the best reputation. In earlier years, vegan versions were often criticized for having an unpleasant taste or texture that didn’t resemble classic eggnog. More recently, however, dairy-free nog has improved, and several options now earn positive feedback from shoppers. Some non-dairy products receive mostly high marks, but not every alternative lands the same way with every customer.

One of the most debated options is ALDI’s Friendly Farms Non-Dairy Almond Nog. It has returned to shelves for the season, and, once again, shoppers are weighing in with strong opinions on both sides.

What ALDI says about Friendly Farms Non-Dairy Almond Nog

According to the product description, Friendly Farms Non-Dairy Almond Nog is described as a “rich and creamy beverage perfect for festive occasions.” It’s positioned as something you can enjoy either chilled or warmed up, and the description suggests it can be spiced with nutmeg or cinnamon for extra holiday flavor. The drink is also described as having a “smooth and nutty flavor” that is presented as being not unlike traditional eggnog.

For shoppers who like to plan seasonal groceries around value, price is part of the appeal. The product is sold in a 59-ounce carton priced at $3.79, making it a relatively affordable holiday beverage option.

Why some shoppers love it: lighter texture, flexible uses

For fans of the almond nog, the appeal often comes down to how easy it is to use and how it fits into everyday routines. Some shoppers say they enjoy it simply as a drink, while others view it as a seasonal ingredient that can be used across multiple recipes and beverages.

In shopper discussions, positive comments highlight that it can work well beyond sipping. One person described it as “quite good” and suggested it could be used in a smoothie or shake, as a base for overnight oats or chia pudding, or even in iced coffee. Another shopper called it a “much healthier option than traditional eggnog,” adding that while it isn’t as creamy as dairy-based eggnog, that difference is not a drawback for someone who already drinks almond milk regularly.

Interestingly, what some people consider a defining strength is also the product’s most debated characteristic: its thinner consistency. Several shoppers specifically praise the fact that it’s less thick than classic eggnog. One comment summed it up simply: they love eggnog but can’t handle the thickness, so this version works better for them. That same shopper also noted using it as a creamer in coffee, a use that comes up repeatedly among those who enjoy the product.

Why others don’t: “thin,” “watery,” or not flavorful enough

Not everyone is convinced. Some shoppers who try Friendly Farms Non-Dairy Almond Nog come away disappointed, often for the same reason others like it. In online discussions, critics describe the drink as too thin and not very flavorful. One shopper said they didn’t care for it, and others agreed, with descriptions like “very thin,” “not very flavorful,” and “watery.” A few responses go further, saying they would not buy it again.

These reactions suggest that expectations play a big role. If someone is looking for a close match to traditional eggnog—especially its signature thickness and richness—this almond-based version may not deliver the experience they want.

The middle ground: enjoying it as its own thing, not a “dupe”

Even in discussions where criticism is common, some shoppers defend the product enthusiastically. One person explained that they typically thin out regular eggnog with milk to make it less thick and easier to drink. For them, the almond nog tastes like that familiar “nog + milk” combination, with the added benefit of being dairy-free and requiring no mixing—just pour and enjoy.

Other fans echo a similar idea: they don’t drink it expecting it to be a perfect replacement for classic eggnog. Instead, they treat it as a separate seasonal beverage with its own strengths. Several shoppers mention using it as a festive coffee creamer or as a substitute for milk in cereal. One person even responded to criticism by saying, essentially, that if others don’t like it, that just means more for those who do.

Another satisfied shopper captured the divide clearly: they love that it is thinner and “just sweet enough,” and they also appreciate that it’s easier on a lactose-intolerant stomach. At the same time, they acknowledge that if someone is specifically seeking an alternative that closely matches classic eggnog, this product may not meet that goal.

Should you try it this season?

Friendly Farms Non-Dairy Almond Nog has been around for years, and the recurring debate suggests it has a steady fanbase alongside a consistent group of skeptics. If you enjoy almond milk, prefer a lighter consistency, or want a seasonal drink that can double as a coffee creamer or cereal milk, this may be worth trying. If you want the thick, rich texture associated with traditional eggnog, it may not be the best fit.

As with many seasonal items, availability is tied to the holiday window. Shoppers who want to try it—or stock up because they already know they like it—often choose to pick up a carton or two while it’s on shelves.

Common ways shoppers say they use it

• Sipped on its own, chilled or warmed
• Spiced with nutmeg or cinnamon
• Mixed into smoothies or shakes
• Used as a base for overnight oats or chia pudding
• Poured into iced coffee or used as a coffee creamer substitute
• Used instead of milk in cereal