Homemade Eggnog
Homemade eggnog is a holiday classic that brings comfort and warmth to any gathering. This rich, creamy version is made from scratch, offering a smooth texture and a perfect blend of spices that will have you ditching store-bought options forever.
The secret to this homemade eggnog lies in the careful combination of egg yolks, sugar, milk, and cream. With the subtle touch of nutmeg and vanilla, every sip delivers a festive flavor that will transport you straight to a cozy winter evening.
Whether you enjoy it as a non-alcoholic treat or with a splash of your favorite spirit, this homemade eggnog is sure to become a beloved tradition. Serve it chilled with a dusting of cinnamon, and you’ll have a drink that’s as unforgettable as the season itself.
Homemade Eggnog: Ingredients
Egg yolks form the rich, velvety base of this eggnog, lending a smooth texture and a deep, custard-like flavor. Granulated sugar sweetens the mix, balancing the spices and creating the perfect level of indulgence.
Heavy whipping cream and milk combine to provide the creamy, luxurious consistency that makes homemade eggnog irresistible. A touch of nutmeg offers a warm, aromatic spice that defines the drink’s signature flavor, while vanilla adds a hint of sweetness and depth.
Homemade Eggnog: Recipe Tips
- Temper the Eggs Slowly: When adding hot milk to the egg yolk mixture, be sure to do it slowly, adding one spoonful at a time while whisking vigorously. This will prevent the eggs from scrambling and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and quality cream make a significant difference in the taste and texture of homemade eggnog. Opt for fresh, locally sourced eggs and rich heavy cream for the best results. Fresh nutmeg, grated from the whole spice, will add a more vibrant flavor than pre-ground nutmeg.
- Adjust Thickness to Your Preference: If you prefer a thinner consistency, blend the eggnog after chilling with a little extra milk to achieve your desired smoothness. Additionally, if the mixture thickens too much while cooling, simply stir in a splash of milk to loosen it up.
What to Serve with Homemade Eggnog
- Spiced Gingerbread Cookies: A classic pairing, gingerbread cookies complement the creamy richness of eggnog with their warm, spiced flavors. The contrast in texture and taste makes for a perfect holiday treat.
- Christmas Morning Pancakes: Serve your eggnog alongside fluffy, warm pancakes, topped with maple syrup and a dusting of cinnamon. The sweet and comforting flavors create an indulgent breakfast or brunch experience, perfect for a festive morning.
- Cranberry Orange Scones: The tartness of fresh cranberries and the citrusy zing of orange in scones balances out the sweetness of the eggnog. These scones are light, flavorful, and an excellent contrast to the richness of the drink.
FAQ: Homemade Eggnog
- Can I make this eggnog without alcohol?
Yes, you can easily skip the alcohol. The homemade eggnog is delicious on its own, with the cream, milk, and spices providing all the flavor needed for a festive treat. - How long can I store homemade eggnog?
Homemade eggnog can be stored in the fridge for up to one week. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. - Can I use a dairy-free substitute for the milk and cream?
Absolutely! You can use any non-dairy milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk, and opt for a non-dairy cream to keep this recipe vegan-friendly while still achieving a rich and creamy consistency. - What alcohol works best in eggnog?
Traditional eggnog is often made with rum, bourbon, or brandy. You can also experiment with spiced rum for an added flavor depth, or even try a flavored whiskey for a twist on the classic.
Homemade Eggnog
Ingredients
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon for garnish
- Alcohol optional, refer to note
Instructions
- Begin by whisking the egg yolks and sugar in a medium bowl until the mixture becomes light and creamy.
- In a saucepan set over medium-high heat, combine the heavy cream, milk, nutmeg, and salt. Stir frequently and heat until the mixture just begins to simmer.
- Gradually add a spoonful of the hot milk to the egg mixture, whisking thoroughly after each addition. Continue this process until the egg mixture has been tempered.
- Once most of the hot milk has been incorporated, return the combined mixture to the saucepan.
- Stir the mixture continuously for approximately one minute, until it slightly thickens or reaches a temperature of 160°F. The eggnog will thicken further as it cools.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and alcohol (if using).
- Strain the eggnog through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher or another suitable container. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate the eggnog until thoroughly chilled. It will naturally thicken as it cools. For a smoother, thinner texture, blend the eggnog with a couple of tablespoons of milk until desired consistency is achieved.
- Before serving, garnish the eggnog with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and add fresh whipped cream if desired.
- Store the homemade eggnog in the refrigerator for up to one week, ensuring it remains fresh for several days.
