Eggnog Recipe

Eggnog is a festive and creamy drink that’s perfect for the holiday season. With its rich flavor and smooth texture, this traditional beverage is a treat for everyone. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday party or enjoying it on a cold winter evening, homemade eggnog brings a special touch to any occasion. This recipe is simple to make and can be customized to suit your tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Eggnog is a classic holiday drink, beloved for its rich and velvety texture and the warmth of its spices. This homemade version is far superior to store-bought eggnog, offering a fresh and smooth flavor that will make your festive gatherings feel extra special. Whether you like it spiked with rum or prefer the non-alcoholic version, this recipe can be easily tailored to fit your preference. Its combination of creamy milk, eggs, and warming spices makes for a luxurious drink that’s perfect for any holiday celebration.

Ingredients

  • 6 large eggs

  • 3/4 cup sugar

  • 2 cups whole milk

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

  • 1/2 cup dark rum (optional)

  • 1/2 cup bourbon (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Whisk the eggs and sugar: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until smooth and pale in color.

  2. Heat the milk and cream: In a saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture is hot but not boiling (about 5 minutes).

  3. Temper the eggs: Slowly pour about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs. Gradually add the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Be careful not to let it boil.

  4. Chill: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. If you’re making an alcoholic version, add the rum and bourbon at this point. Let the eggnog cool for about 15-20 minutes.

  5. Refrigerate: Transfer the eggnog to a large pitcher or bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to chill and develop its flavors.

  6. Serve: When ready to serve, give the eggnog a good stir and pour it into glasses. Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6-8

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 10 minutes

  • Total Time: 4-8 hours (including chilling time)

Variations

  • Dairy-Free Version: Use almond milk or coconut milk in place of dairy milk and cream for a dairy-free alternative.

  • Vegan Eggnog: Swap eggs for silken tofu and use plant-based milk and cream to create a vegan version of this classic drink.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover eggnog in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, as the mixture may separate while chilled. You can enjoy it cold or warm it up gently on the stove, but be sure not to bring it to a boil.

FAQs

1. How long can eggnog be stored in the fridge?

Homemade eggnog should be consumed within 3 days when stored properly in the fridge.

2. Can I make eggnog ahead of time?

Yes, eggnog actually tastes better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, as the flavors meld together.

3. Can I make eggnog with a dairy-free or vegan option?

Yes, you can use almond milk or coconut milk in place of regular milk, and substitute silken tofu for the eggs for a vegan eggnog.

4. Can I freeze eggnog?

It’s not recommended to freeze eggnog because the texture may change once thawed. The milk and cream may separate, and the consistency could become watery.

5. How do I make eggnog less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet eggnog, simply reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe and taste the mixture before adding more.

6. How can I make eggnog more flavorful?

You can add a bit more vanilla extract or experiment with additional spices like ginger or allspice to enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

Homemade eggnog is a holiday favorite that’s perfect for special gatherings or cozy moments by the fireplace. With its smooth texture, aromatic spices,  this recipe will bring festive cheer to your celebrations. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with a touch of rum or bourbon, this eggnog is sure to become a tradition in your holiday repertoire!

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Eggnog Recipe

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  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 4-8 hours (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 6-8 servings
  • Category: Drink
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

Eggnog is a rich, creamy holiday drink made with eggs, milk, heavy cream, and warming spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. It’s a festive treat that can be enjoyed non-alcoholic or spiked with rum or bourbon.

Ingredients

  • 6 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 cup dark rum (optional)
  • 1/2 cup bourbon (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until smooth and pale in color.
  2. In a saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture is hot but not boiling (about 5 minutes).
  3. Slowly pour about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs. Gradually add the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Be careful not to let it boil.
  4. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. If making an alcoholic version, add the rum and bourbon. Let the eggnog cool for about 15-20 minutes.
  5. Transfer the eggnog to a large pitcher or bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to chill and develop its flavors.
  6. When ready to serve, stir the eggnog and pour into glasses. Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg and enjoy!

Notes

For a dairy-free version, use almond milk or coconut milk in place of regular milk and cream.To make vegan eggnog, substitute the eggs with silken tofu and use plant-based milk and cream.Store leftover eggnog in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar and taste before adding more.Feel free to add more vanilla or experiment with other spices like ginger or allspice to enhance the flavor.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 225
  • Sugar: 21g
  • Sodium: 55mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 155mg

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