Description
Homemade Eggnog is a rich, creamy, and delicious holiday classic that’s perfect for winter gatherings. Made with eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and a hint of nutmeg, this homemade version is smooth and full of flavor, with a comforting taste that’s perfect for cozying up by the fire. Whether served with or without alcohol, this eggnog recipe is sure to be a hit during the holiday season!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup bourbon or rum (optional, for adult version)
- 1 tablespoon brandy (optional, for adult version)
Instructions
- Prepare the Eggnog Base:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until smooth and slightly pale. Add the milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, nutmeg, cinnamon (if using), and salt, and whisk until well combined.
- Cook the Eggnog:
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula, until the mixture thickens slightly and reaches about 160°F (71°C). This should take about 5-8 minutes. Be sure to stir continuously to avoid curdling the eggs.
- Strain the Eggnog:
- Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl or pitcher to remove any cooked egg bits.
- Chill the Eggnog:
- Allow the eggnog to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or overnight. The longer it chills, the more the flavors will develop.
- Optional Alcoholic Version:
- If making an alcoholic version, add the bourbon, rum, or brandy to the eggnog once it has chilled. Stir to combine.
- Serve:
- Before serving, give the eggnog a good stir, as it may separate slightly. Pour into glasses and garnish with additional ground nutmeg or a cinnamon stick, if desired.
- Enjoy:
- Serve chilled and enjoy the rich, festive flavors of your homemade eggnog!
Notes
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic eggnog, simply omit the alcohol and enjoy the creamy, spiced beverage on its own.
- For a thicker eggnog, you can use more cream or less milk, depending on your preference for creaminess.
- If you’re concerned about using raw eggs, you can opt for pasteurized eggs to reduce the risk of salmonella.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the recipe
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 125mg