Description
Amazingly good eggnog recipe for the perfect holiday treat.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup bourbon or rum (optional)
- 2 tablespoons brandy (optional)
- Ground cinnamon
- Whipped cream
- Cinnamon sticks
Instructions
- Prepare Your Egg Base
- Separate the eggs carefully, placing yolks in a large mixing bowl. Save the whites for another use or whip them later for an extra-frothy version. Whisk the yolks gradually while adding sugar, creating a pale, creamy mixture that forms the foundation of your amazingly good eggnog. This process typically takes 3-4 minutes of vigorous whisking.
- Heat the Milk Mixture
- Combine milk, cream, and salt in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-low heat. Heat until small bubbles form around the edges—never let it boil, as this will curdle your eggnog. The gentle heating process preserves the delicate proteins while infusing the dairy with subtle sweetness.
- Temper the Eggs
- This step prevents scrambled eggs in your eggnog. Slowly pour about half the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly. This gradual temperature increase allows the eggs to warm safely without cooking. Take your time here—rushing this step is the most common mistake in eggnog preparation.
- Create the Custard
- Return the tempered mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon. The mixture is ready when it coats the back of the spoon and reaches 160°F. This custard base gives your amazingly good eggnog its signature richness and smooth texture.
- Add Final Flavors
- Remove from heat and immediately stir in vanilla extract, nutmeg, and spirits if using. The residual heat helps bloom the spices while preventing alcohol from cooking off completely. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to ensure silky smoothness.
- Chill and Serve
- Transfer to a pitcher or bowl, cover with plastic wrap directly touching the surface to prevent skin formation, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Serve in small glasses topped with freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Notes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
Keywords: eggnog, holiday drink, festive beverage