Eggnog is the quintessential holiday drink, a creamy and spiced beverage that brings warmth and nostalgia to every sip. Whether you enjoy it spiked or non-alcoholic, homemade eggnog is far superior to store-bought versions, offering a richer texture and more vibrant flavors. The picture perfectly captures the velvety smoothness of freshly made eggnog, topped with a sprinkle of nutmeg for the perfect finishing touch.
If you’re looking for the best homemade eggnog recipe, you’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through how to make this festive classic from scratch.
What Is Eggnog?
Eggnog is a traditional holiday drink made with milk, cream, eggs, sugar, and warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. It can be enjoyed as a non-alcoholic treat or enhanced with bourbon, rum, or brandy for an adult-friendly version.
This rich and creamy drink dates back to medieval Europe but became widely popular in the U.S. during the colonial era. Today, it remains a staple at holiday gatherings, especially during Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.
Ingredients for Classic Homemade Eggnog
To achieve the perfect creamy texture and spiced flavor, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Eggnog Base:
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Whipped Egg Whites (Optional, for extra creaminess):
- 2 large egg whites
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
For the Spiked Version (Optional):
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup (120-180ml) bourbon, rum, or brandy
How to Make Eggnog from Scratch
1. Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until the mixture is pale and creamy. This step helps create a smooth and rich texture.
2. Heat the Milk and Spices
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, heavy cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir frequently and heat until the mixture is warm but not boiling.
3. Temper the Eggs
- Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
- Gradually whisk the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk.
4. Cook Until Thickened
- Continue cooking over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and reaches about 160°F (70°C).
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Optional – Whipped Egg Whites for Extra Creaminess
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with 1 tablespoon of sugar until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the cooled eggnog for a frothy, airy texture.
6. Add Alcohol (Optional)
- If making a spiked version, stir in your choice of bourbon, rum, or brandy. Adjust the amount to taste.
7. Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled in glasses, topped with a sprinkle of nutmeg for a festive touch.
Pro Tips for the Best Eggnog
- Use Fresh Eggs: Since eggnog contains raw or lightly cooked eggs, use pasteurized eggs to reduce any risk.
- Whip the Egg Whites Separately: This step gives eggnog a light, fluffy texture.
- Don’t Boil the Mixture: Overheating can cause the eggs to scramble. Heat gently to avoid curdling.
- Chill for Better Flavor: Letting eggnog rest in the fridge for a few hours enhances its richness.
- Adjust the Alcohol: Bourbon, rum, or brandy all work well. Add more or less depending on your preference.
Variations to Try
Looking to switch things up? Here are some creative twists on classic eggnog:
1. Dairy-Free Eggnog
- Substitute almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk for the dairy ingredients.
- Use coconut cream for extra richness.
2. Keto & Low-Sugar Eggnog
- Replace sugar with monk fruit sweetener or erythritol.
- Use heavy cream and unsweetened almond milk for a low-carb version.
3. Vegan Eggnog
- Swap eggs for cashews or silken tofu blended with plant-based milk.
- Use maple syrup instead of sugar for natural sweetness.
4. Chocolate Eggnog
- Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder for a rich, chocolaty twist.
How to Store Homemade Eggnog
Homemade eggnog is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it properly for later use:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze eggnog for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and whisk before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is it safe to drink raw eggnog?
A: Traditional eggnog recipes include raw eggs, but using pasteurized eggs reduces the risk of foodborne illness. Cooking the mixture to 160°F also makes it safe to drink.
Q: Can I make eggnog ahead of time?
A: Yes! Eggnog actually tastes better after resting in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight, allowing the flavors to develop.
Q: What’s the best alcohol for spiked eggnog?
A: Bourbon, rum, and brandy are the most popular choices. You can also mix them for a unique flavor.
Q: How can I make eggnog thicker?
A: Adding more heavy cream or using extra egg yolks will result in a thicker consistency.
Final Thoughts
Eggnog is the perfect holiday beverage, bringing warmth and nostalgia with every sip. Whether you enjoy it classic, spiked, or with a modern twist, this homemade eggnog recipe delivers the ultimate creamy and delicious experience.
Try this recipe today and bring the holiday spirit to your celebrations!
