Print

Creamy Homemade Eggnog Recipe

A close-up, top-down view of creamy homemade eggnog in a glass, dusted heavily with cinnamon.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced homemade eggnog. This classic recipe is easy to prepare and delivers superior flavor compared to store-bought versions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 large egg yolks
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 quart whole milk
  • 1 pint heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, plus more for garnish
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Optional: 1 cup bourbon, spiced rum, or brandy

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, and salt together until the mixture is pale yellow and smooth.
  2. In a large saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until steam rises and small bubbles form around the edges. Do not boil.
  3. Slowly temper the eggs by pouring about one cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.
  4. Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk and cream.
  5. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon (reaching 160 degrees Fahrenheit). Do not let it boil.
  6. Remove the saucepan from the heat immediately. Stir in the vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
  7. If using alcohol, stir in the bourbon, rum, or brandy now.
  8. Pour the eggnog into a pitcher or airtight container. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to thicken.
  9. Serve cold, garnished with freshly grated nutmeg.

Notes

  • For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the spirits. This creates a delicious Amish style eggnog.
  • To achieve the creamiest texture, use high-quality, full-fat dairy products.
  • If you prefer a thinner consistency, reduce the heavy cream slightly or add a splash more milk after chilling.
  • For an extra festive touch, rim your glasses with cinnamon sugar before serving.

Nutrition