There’s nothing wrong with store-bought eggnog, but you might be surprised to learn that homemade eggnog is very easy to make and, in my opinion, much better. Not only can you customize the sweetness level, but you can also make this creamy drink more or less spicy to your liking.
I love custard in general. And since eggnog is mostly made from milk and egg yolks, it’s essentially a spicy custard drink. This classic eggnog recipe is decadent, delicious, and perfect for the holiday season.
relevant: Need more festive drink recipes? Try the Coquito, Butterbeer, Pumpkin Smoothie, Turmeric Latte, Peppermint Mocha, Gingerbread Latte and Medicine Ball Tea.
ingredient
- egg yolk
- granulated white sugar
- heavy cream
- milk
- vanilla extract
- cinnamon sticks
map
Separate the egg yolks from the whites in a small mixing bowl. Set aside.
Combine sugar, cream, milk, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and cinnamon stick in a medium saucepan. Whisk over low/medium heat until very warm and sugar is completely dissolved.
Slowly whisk 1/2 cup of hot milk mixture at a time into egg yolks. The goal is to warm the egg yolk slowly. This is because if it goes from cold to hot too quickly, it can condense.
If the mixing bowl with the milk and yolks feels very warm to the touch (outside of the bowl), return the mixture to the pan. Heat the liquid until it reaches 160°F (71°C).
Pour the eggnog through a fine mesh sieve to remove any sediment and cinnamon sticks. Store in the refrigerator.
Tips and Extras
- you can use instant read thermometer or candy thermometer Make sure the liquid has reached food-safe temperature.
- If the egg yolk hardens slightly, it’s okay! It’s not ideal, but it won’t ruin your eggnog. Strain the mixture before cooling to remove any curdled bits.
- Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, or cloves to this recipe! Pumpkin pie spice can also be a good addition.
- How about spiked eggnog?! You can add whatever liquor goes well with cinnamon. Think bourbon, whiskey, brandy, rum, and Kahlua. Add 1 shot (1.5 to 2 ounces) per serving.
- For an extra dose of caffeine, just add a shot or two of espresso and top with whipped cream!
More Great Recipes
Frequently Asked Questions
Is eggnog served hot or cold?
Eggnog is usually served cold unless added to a hot drink such as an eggnog latte.
Does eggnog contain alcohol?
Eggnog itself does not contain alcohol. However, it’s very common to add brandy, rum or bourbon to eggnog, so if you’re at a party and you’re not sure, ask your host.
Is eggnog still made from eggs?
Classic homemade eggnog is made with egg yolks, and many store-bought versions are also made with pasteurized eggs. However, you can find versions made without eggs in stores.
How long does eggnog last in the refrigerator?
Homemade eggnog can be stored in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 days after making.
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guideline
-
Separate the egg yolks from the whites in a small mixing bowl. Set aside.
-
In a medium saucepan, add sugar, cream, milk, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and cinnamon stick.
-
Whisk over low/medium heat until very warm and sugar is completely dissolved.
-
Slowly add 1/2 cup of warm milk to the egg yolks, one at a time, stirring after each addition. The goal is to warm the egg yolk slowly. This is because if it goes from cold to hot too quickly, it can condense.
-
If the mixing bowl with the milk and yolks feels very warm to the touch (outside of the bowl), return the mixture to the pan.
-
Heat the liquid until it reaches 160°F (71°C).
-
Strain through a sieve to remove sediment and cinnamon sticks. Store in the refrigerator.
memo
If the egg yolk hardens slightly, it’s okay! It’s not ideal, but it won’t ruin your eggnog. Strain the mixture before cooling to remove any curdled bits.
Try adding more nutmeg, cinnamon, or other spices to this recipe! Pumpkin pie spice can also be a good addition.
Homemade eggnog can be stored in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 days after making.
nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Homemade eggnog
Amount per serving
% Daily Value*
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Note: Nutrition is automatically calculated using Spoonacular for your convenience. We recommend using your own nutritional calculations where applicable.
