Eggnog is a classic holiday drink known for its creamy texture, rich flavors, and a touch of nutmeg. Whether served warm or chilled, this homemade eggnog is a festive favorite that captures the essence of the holiday season. It’s a delicious blend of milk, cream, eggs, and a hint of vanilla, with a sprinkle of nutmeg for that quintessential holiday flavor. You can make it with or without alcohol, depending on your preference.
Homemade Eggnog
I love making homemade eggnog during the holiday season because it’s so much fresher and creamier than the store-bought versions. The flavors are richer, and you can customize it with spices or a splash of your favorite alcohol. Plus, there’s something so festive about sipping on a glass of creamy eggnog while sitting by the fire or trimming the tree. This recipe is easy to make and can be enjoyed by the whole family (without alcohol), or you can spike it with rum or bourbon for an adult version.
This eggnog pairs beautifully with a variety of holiday treats, such as Sea Salt Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe or Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe, making it the perfect holiday drink.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Eggnog Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of milk, cream, and eggs creates a decadent, velvety drink that’s perfect for the holidays.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices or add your favorite spirits to make it your own.
- Holiday Classic: It’s a festive drink that’s sure to get you into the holiday spirit, whether you serve it at a party or enjoy it on a quiet winter evening.
- Non-Alcoholic or Spiked: It’s delicious as a family-friendly drink, or you can add rum, bourbon, or brandy for an adult version.
Main Ingredients for Homemade Eggnog
- Eggs – Fresh eggs give eggnog its rich, custard-like texture.
- Milk and Cream – Whole milk and heavy cream create the perfect balance of richness and creaminess.
- Sugar – Granulated sugar sweetens the eggnog without overpowering the other flavors.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and depth to the drink.
- Nutmeg and Cinnamon – These spices give eggnog its signature holiday flavor.
- Optional Alcohol – Rum, bourbon, or brandy are classic choices if you want to spike the eggnog.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Eggnog Recipe
Here’s how to make this creamy, flavorful eggnog step by step:
- Whisk the Eggs and Sugar: In a medium bowl, whisk 6 large eggs with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. The mixture should become pale and slightly thickened after about 2-3 minutes.
- Tip: For a smoother texture, you can strain the egg mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any egg clumps.
- Heat the Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of whole milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it’s hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally.
- Pro Tip: Stir continuously to prevent the milk from scorching on the bottom of the pan.
- Temper the Eggs: Slowly pour about 1/4 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. This helps temper the eggs and prevent them from curdling when added to the hot liquid.
- Variation: For extra flavor, you can add a cinnamon stick or a pinch of ground cloves to the milk while heating.
- Combine and Heat: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the hot milk and cream. Continue cooking over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and reaches 160°F. It should coat the back of a spoon.
- Tip: Be careful not to let the mixture boil, as this could cause the eggs to curdle.
- Add Flavoring: Once the eggnog has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg. Let the eggnog cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill and let the flavors meld.
- Serving Idea: If you prefer warm eggnog, you can skip the chilling step and serve it immediately.
- Serve: When ready to serve, give the eggnog a good stir and pour it into glasses. If desired, add a splash of rum, bourbon, or brandy to each glass for an adult version. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top.
- Serving Idea: Eggnog pairs beautifully with cookies or gingerbread for a festive treat.
Extra Tips and Variations
- Make It Dairy-Free: You can substitute almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Use full-fat coconut milk for a rich and creamy texture.
- How to Store: Store leftover eggnog in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate slightly.
- How to Serve: Eggnog can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference. For a thicker texture, let it chill for a few hours before serving.
Health Benefits of Homemade Eggnog
While eggnog is an indulgent holiday treat, making it at home allows you to control the ingredients and make it a bit healthier. Eggs provide protein, while the milk and cream offer calcium and vitamin D. For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cream or use low-fat milk. Homemade eggnog is also free from preservatives and artificial flavors, making it a more wholesome choice compared to store-bought varieties.
- Good Source of Protein: Eggs provide a good amount of protein, which helps keep you full and supports muscle health.
- Rich in Calcium: The milk and cream in eggnog offer a healthy dose of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
- Customizable for Healthier Options: You can reduce the sugar or use lower-fat milk to make a lighter version of this classic drink.
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