Description
Creamy “Homemade Eggnog” whisks classic holiday cheer into a luxurious drink that warms winter celebrations. Sweet nutmeg and rich custard blend perfectly, offering festive comfort you’ll savor sip by delightful sip.
Ingredients
Scale
Dairy:
- 3 cups (710 milliliters) whole milk
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
Eggs and Sweeteners:
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1/3 cup (66 grams) sugar
Spices and Flavorings:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 pinch salt
- Ground cinnamon (for garnish)
- Spiced rum or bourbon (optional)
Instructions
- Whisk egg yolks and sugar in a medium bowl until the mixture becomes pale and sugar fully dissolves, creating a smooth, light-colored base.
- Combine milk, nutmeg, and salt in a large saucepan, heating over medium-high until milk approaches a gentle boil, stirring consistently to prevent scorching.
- Carefully introduce hot milk into egg mixture by slowly pouring and whisking, ensuring gradual temperature equalization without curdling the eggs.
- Transfer tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring continuously to maintain a uniform consistency.
- Cook on medium heat, monitoring closely until the liquid thickens slightly and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F, avoiding any boiling.
- Transfer the custard-like mixture to a clean glass or metal bowl, allowing it to cool to room temperature for approximately 30 minutes.
- Incorporate cream, vanilla extract, and optional alcohol, mixing thoroughly to create a rich, smooth texture.
- Refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours, enabling the eggnog to develop a deep, harmonious flavor profile.
- Before serving, give the eggnog a gentle stir and garnish with a delicate sprinkle of ground nutmeg or cinnamon, with an optional dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Temper eggs carefully by slowly adding hot milk to prevent scrambling, which maintains a smooth, creamy texture.
- Use fresh, high-quality eggs from trusted sources to ensure food safety when preparing this traditional holiday beverage.
- Alcohol is optional, so adjust the recipe for non-alcoholic versions by simply omitting or replacing with vanilla extract for family-friendly enjoyment.
- Achieve the perfect thickness by monitoring temperature closely and removing from heat at 160°F to prevent curdling and maintain a silky consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Cocktails, Desserts
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 200 mg