Homemade Eggnog Recipe

There’s something so cozy and festive about a glass of homemade eggnog, isn’t there? Whether you’re sipping it by the fireplace, serving it at holiday parties, or simply enjoying it with loved ones, this rich and creamy eggnog recipe is a holiday tradition that’s as warm and comforting as it gets. The homemade version beats anything from a carton, hands down—trust me on that! Made with a blend of eggs, milk, sugar, and a hint of spice, it’s everything you want in a seasonal drink, and even better when topped with a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Eggnog

Perfectly Creamy: The homemade version is rich, smooth, and decadent without being too heavy. It’s like a warm hug in a glass!

Customizable: Want a little extra spice? Maybe a dash more rum? This recipe is totally adaptable to your tastes. You can adjust the sweetness, spice, and alcohol to suit your preferences.

Made with Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy to make this eggnog—just a few pantry staples like eggs, milk, and sugar. You probably already have most of the ingredients on hand!

No Artificial Ingredients: Unlike store-bought eggnog, this homemade version is made with fresh, real ingredients. It’s a treat you can feel good about enjoying.

Festive Tradition: Making your own eggnog is a fun holiday tradition. It’s perfect for gathering the family in the kitchen and spreading the holiday cheer.

Ingredients

Let’s talk about the ingredients that make this eggnog recipe so good:

For the Eggnog:

• Eggs: The base of this drink, providing both richness and creaminess.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the eggnog to just the right level.
• Whole Milk: Adds to the creamy texture. You can substitute with any milk of your choice, though whole milk will give the best consistency.
• Heavy Cream: This is what makes the eggnog extra rich and luxurious.
• Vanilla Extract: A hint of vanilla adds a sweet, warm depth to the drink.
• Ground Nutmeg: This is a classic spice for eggnog. It gives it that cozy, holiday flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon: Another warming spice that complements the nutmeg beautifully.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance out the sweetness and spices.

Optional Alcohol:

• Rum: Traditionally added to eggnog for a boozy twist. Use dark or spiced rum for extra depth.
• Bourbon: For a more robust flavor.
• Brandy: Adds a subtle richness that pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the eggnog.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Making homemade eggnog is surprisingly simple and so much fun. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Whisk the Eggs and Sugar
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and smooth. This step helps create a smooth base for the eggnog.

Step 2: Heat the Milk and Cream
In a saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent it from burning. Heat until it just starts to steam, but do not let it come to a boil.

Step 3: Temper the Eggs
To prevent the eggs from scrambling, you need to temper them. Slowly add about a cup of the hot milk mixture into the eggs while whisking constantly. This gradually warms the eggs without cooking them.

Step 4: Combine and Cook
Once the eggs have been tempered, pour them back into the saucepan with the rest of the milk mixture. Continue to cook the eggnog over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Add Spices and Flavor
Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Taste the eggnog and adjust the spices if necessary.

Step 6: Chill the Eggnog
Allow the eggnog to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to the fridge to chill for at least 2 hours. The flavors will meld together as it cools.

Step 7: Add Alcohol (Optional)
Once the eggnog is chilled, stir in your choice of rum, bourbon, or brandy, if using. Adjust the amount based on how strong you want the eggnog to be.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the eggnog in chilled glasses with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg on top. For an extra festive touch, you can even garnish it with a cinnamon stick or a dollop of whipped cream.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 320
Preparation Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including chilling)

How to Serve Homemade Eggnog

Homemade eggnog is perfect for holiday parties, cozy nights by the fire, or as a fun treat for family gatherings. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your eggnog experience:

• Garnish with a Cinnamon Stick: A cinnamon stick adds a decorative touch and an extra hit of spice.
• Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a richer, indulgent experience.
• Serve Chilled or Warm: You can serve eggnog cold or slightly warmed, depending on your preference. Both ways are delicious!
• Pair with Holiday Desserts: Eggnog pairs wonderfully with classic holiday treats like cookies, pies, or cakes.

Additional Tips

• Make it Dairy-Free: If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute the milk and cream with coconut milk or almond milk, though the texture will be slightly different.
• Alcohol-Free Option: If you want to skip the alcohol, the eggnog is still delicious and creamy without it. Just skip that step and enjoy the classic, non-alcoholic version.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer your eggnog on the sweeter side, feel free to add a bit more sugar to taste.
• Make Ahead: Eggnog is great for making ahead of time! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make eggnog without alcohol?
A1: Yes! Simply skip the rum, bourbon, or brandy. The eggnog will still be rich and delicious without it.

Q2: Can I make this recipe without using raw eggs?
A2: Yes, you can pasteurize the eggs by cooking the eggnog over low heat until it reaches 160°F (71°C), or you can use pasteurized eggs from the store.

Q3: How long can I store homemade eggnog?
A3: Homemade eggnog can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it covered and chilled.

Q4: Can I freeze eggnog?
A4: Freezing eggnog is not recommended because the texture may change when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making it.

Q5: How can I make this recipe even creamier?
A5: You can add extra heavy cream or use a higher-fat milk to make the eggnog even richer.

Q6: Can I use other spices in my eggnog?
A6: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other spices like cloves, allspice, or ginger to give your eggnog a unique twist.

Q7: What kind of alcohol is best in eggnog?
A7: Traditionally, dark rum, bourbon, or brandy are used in eggnog. Each gives a different flavor profile, so it’s up to your personal preference!

Q8: Can I make this eggnog recipe ahead of time?
A8: Yes! Make the eggnog up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the alcohol right before serving.

Q9: How do I serve eggnog at a party?
A9: Serve your eggnog in a punch bowl or a large pitcher. Set out some fun garnishes like cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, and whipped cream for guests to add to their drinks.

Q10: Is homemade eggnog safe to drink?
A10: As long as you cook the eggnog mixture to the right temperature (160°F), it’s safe to drink. If you’re concerned, you can use pasteurized eggs or skip the raw eggs entirely.

Conclusion

This Homemade Eggnog recipe is a festive classic that’s perfect for the holiday season. Creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-cozy, it’s the ultimate drink to enjoy with family and friends. Whether you’re serving it as a treat at a holiday gathering or savoring it by the fire, this homemade eggnog will quickly become a new tradition. Go ahead, pour yourself a glass, and let the holiday magic begin!

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