Eggnog is the ultimate holiday drink, bringing cozy vibes and festive cheer to every gathering. Whether you enjoy it spiked or non-alcoholic, this creamy, spiced beverage is a seasonal favorite. While store-bought eggnog can be convenient, nothing beats the rich, velvety taste of homemade eggnog. This recipe is simple, uses common ingredients, and delivers a homemade touch that will impress your friends and family this holiday season.
Ingredients
To make the best homemade eggnog, you’ll need the following:
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup bourbon or rum (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Whisk the Eggs and Sugar
In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs with the sugar until the mixture becomes light and creamy. This will give your eggnog a smooth texture and a sweet base for the spices to mix with. The eggs also act as the base for the drink’s rich, velvety consistency.
Step 2: Heat the Milk and Cream
In a saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it starts to steam, but be careful not to bring it to a boil. This will infuse the spices into the milk and cream for a wonderfully aromatic base.
Step 3: Temper the Eggs
Once the milk mixture is heated, slowly pour a small amount of the hot liquid into the egg-sugar mixture while whisking continuously. This will temper the eggs and prevent them from scrambling. Gradually whisk in more of the hot liquid until you have combined the eggs with the milk mixture.
Step 4: Cook the Eggnog
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the eggnog thickens slightly. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon. Be patient and don’t let the temperature get too high, as this could curdle the eggs.
Step 5: Cool and Add Flavor
Once the eggnog has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. If you’re using alcohol, add the bourbon or rum at this point. Let the eggnog cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 2 hours to chill and allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
When you’re ready to serve, pour the chilled eggnog into glasses and garnish with a light dusting of ground nutmeg. For an extra touch, add a cinnamon stick for stirring.
Tips for the Perfect Eggnog:
- Adjust sweetness: You can modify the amount of sugar depending on how sweet you like your eggnog. Start with the recipe’s amount and taste, then adjust as needed.
- Make it dairy-free: For a dairy-free version, substitute the whole milk and cream with your favorite non-dairy alternatives, such as almond milk or coconut cream.
- Add a bit of zest: Try adding a small amount of orange zest to the milk and cream mixture for an added layer of flavor.
Conclusion
Homemade eggnog is a festive drink that can bring a sense of warmth and tradition to your holiday celebrations. With its creamy texture, sweet flavor, and a hint of spice, this homemade recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite for your family and friends. Whether you enjoy it spiked or without alcohol, this eggnog will make any occasion feel extra special. So grab your ingredients, get cozy, and start sipping your way into the holiday spirit!
