Craving a classic holiday drink? Indulge in the creamy, spiced, and festive flavors of Homemade Eggnog. This rich and velvety beverage is the ultimate way to celebrate the season. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or cozying up by the fire, this easy-to-make eggnog will be your go-to treat.
Why You'll Love This Festive Favorite
- Rich and Creamy. Made with fresh ingredients, this eggnog has a luxurious texture.
- Customizable. Adjust the sweetness, spice, and even add a splash of your favorite spirit for a boozy version.
- Simple to Make. A few pantry staples and a little whisking are all you need.
- Perfectly Spiced. Nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla combine for that classic holiday flavor.
Bring the magic of the season to your home with this delightful homemade eggnog. It's the perfect drink to make memories with family and friends!
What Is Eggnog?
Eggnog is a traditional holiday beverage made from milk, cream, sugar, and eggs, flavored with warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Often served chilled, it can be enjoyed as a non-alcoholic treat or spiked with rum, brandy, or bourbon for festive gatherings.
This homemade version elevates the store-bought option with its fresh, customizable ingredients and unbeatable flavor.
How Safe Is Homemade Eggnog?
Homemade eggnog can be perfectly safe to consume when prepared properly. The main safety concern arises from the use of raw eggs, which can pose a risk of salmonella if not handled or cooked correctly.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to ensure your homemade eggnog is safe while still being delicious:
- Cooked Eggnog is the Safest Option. To eliminate the risk of salmonella, use a cooked eggnog recipe. This involves tempering the eggs and cooking the mixture over low heat until it reaches 160°F, the temperature at which harmful bacteria are killed. Use a food thermometer to confirm.
- Consider Pasteurized Eggs. If you prefer traditional, uncooked eggnog, opt for pasteurized eggs. These are heat-treated to kill bacteria without cooking the egg, making them safe to use raw.
- Alcohol Can Help. Adding alcohol like rum, bourbon, or brandy to your eggnog can act as a preservative and may kill some bacteria. However, alcohol alone is not enough to guarantee safety unless the eggnog is cooked or pasteurized eggs are used.
What Liquor Is Homemade Eggnog Made With?
Homemade eggnog is a versatile beverage that pairs beautifully with various liquors. Traditionally, eggnog is made with rich, warming spirits that enhance its creamy texture and spice-forward flavor. Here are the most common liquors used in homemade eggnog and what they bring to the table:
- Bourbon- Bourbon adds a warm, slightly sweet kick that complements the creaminess of eggnog and the spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Rum- Rum is a traditional choice for eggnog, especially in tropical or Caribbean-inspired recipes. Dark or spiced rum adds depth, while light rum keeps the flavors mellow.
- Brandy- Brandy adds a sophisticated sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the rich custard-like base of eggnog.
- Whiskey- Whiskey gives eggnog a robust, sharp flavor that balances the sweetness and creaminess. Irish whiskey is a particularly smooth option.
Ingredients You'll Need
For the Eggnog
- Egg Yolks- Adds richness and creates the creamy base.
- Granulated Sugar- Sweetens the eggnog perfectly.
- Whole Milk- The foundation of the drink, providing body.
- Heavy Cream- Adds richness and luxurious texture.
- Vanilla Extract- Rounds out the flavor with a sweet, aromatic touch.
- Ground Nutmeg- For warm, holiday spice.
- Ground Cinnamon- A classic pairing with nutmeg for extra depth.
Optional Additions
- Rum, Bourbon, or Brandy- For a festive, boozy kick.
- Whipped Cream- Garnish for extra indulgence.
How To Make Homemade Eggnog
- Whisk the Egg Yolks and Sugar. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until the mixture is pale and creamy.
- Heat the Milk and Cream. In a saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Heat over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling.
- Temper the Egg Yolks. Slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the whisked egg yolks, stirring constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling. Gradually add the tempered yolks back into the saucepan.
- Cook the Eggnog. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Be careful not to let it boil.
- Add Vanilla and Chill. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let the eggnog cool before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 2 hours.
- Serve and Garnish. Pour the eggnog into glasses, sprinkle with nutmeg, and garnish with cinnamon sticks or whipped cream. Enjoy chilled!
Tips And Tricks
Crafting the perfect homemade eggnog is a rewarding process, but a few insider tips and tricks can elevate your recipe to the next level. Follow these guidelines for a smooth, creamy, and perfectly spiced drink:
- Use Fresh Ingredients. High-quality milk, cream, and eggs make all the difference.
- Don’t Boil. Keep the mixture at a low temperature to avoid curdling.
- Adjust Sweetness. Taste and add more sugar if desired.
- Make Ahead. Eggnog tastes even better after a day in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld.
Variations
Here are some creative variations for homemade eggnog to suit different tastes and occasions:
- Boozy- Stir in your favorite spirit for a holiday cocktail.
- Spiced- Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra warmth.
- Dairy-Free Option- Substitute almond milk or coconut milk for a lactose-free version.
- Coffee- Add a splash of espresso for a latte-like twist.
What To Enjoy With Homemade Eggnog
Homemade eggnog is a versatile and indulgent holiday treat that pairs beautifully with a variety of foods. Here are some delicious ideas to complement your creamy, spiced beverage:
- Ginger Cookies- Spiced cookies complement the creamy drink.
- Pecan Bars- A rich dessert to match the indulgence of eggnog.
- Cheese Board- Savory bites balance the sweetness.
- Cinnamon Rolls- A cozy breakfast or dessert pairing.
How Long Does It Last?
Store homemade eggnog in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as spices may settle at the bottom.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes, you can freeze eggnog! Transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw the frozen eggnog overnight in the refrigerator and whisk before serving.
More Delicious Drinks
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Ingredients
- 6 Egg Yolks
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
- 2 cups Whole Milk
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1/2 tsp Ground Nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1/2 cup Rum, optional
Instructions
- Whisk the Egg Yolks and Sugar. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until the mixture is pale and creamy.
- Heat the Milk and Cream. In a saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Heat over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling.
- Temper the Egg Yolks. Slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the whisked egg yolks, stirring constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling. Gradually add the tempered yolks back into the saucepan.
- Cook the Eggnog. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Be careful not to let it boil.
- Add Vanilla and Chill. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let the eggnog cool before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 2 hours.
- Serve and Garnish. Pour the eggnog into glasses, sprinkle with nutmeg, and garnish with cinnamon sticks or whipped cream. Enjoy chilled!
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