Homemade Eggnog Recipe

Introduction

Homemade eggnog is a rich and creamy holiday classic that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. This festive drink combines warm spices, creamy dairy, and a touch of spirit for a comforting treat everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 6 large egg yolks (beaten)
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup brandy (or rum or bourbon, optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, beaten egg yolks, sugar, and ground nutmeg.
2. Step 2: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Be careful not to let it boil.
3. Step 3: Remove the pan from heat and place it in a bowl filled with ice. Continue stirring the mixture for 2 minutes to cool it down.
4. Step 4: Stir in the vanilla extract and brandy (or your choice of rum or bourbon). Mix well.
5. Step 5: Transfer to the refrigerator and chill thoroughly before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the brandy or substitute with vanilla almond extract for extra flavor.
• Use freshly grated nutmeg on top when serving for a more intense aroma.
• Whisk in a little whipped cream just before serving for an extra creamy texture.

Storage

Store leftover eggnog in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, and serve chilled. Avoid freezing as it may separate upon thawing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pasteurized eggs instead of fresh eggs?

Yes, pasteurized eggs are a safer choice, especially if you prefer to avoid any risk of raw eggs in your eggnog. They work well in this recipe.

Is it possible to make eggnog without alcohol?

Absolutely. You can skip the brandy or other spirits without impacting the creamy, flavorful base. Adding vanilla or almond extract can help maintain depth of flavor.

Homemade Eggnog Recipe

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This classic homemade eggnog recipe blends rich milk, heavy cream, and egg yolks with warm spices and a splash of brandy for a creamy, festive holiday beverage. Perfectly smooth and spiced with nutmeg and vanilla, this traditional eggnog is easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be enjoyed chilled with or without alcohol.

• Author: Rita
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes plus chilling time
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Liquid Ingredients

• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup brandy (OR rum OR bourbon) – optional
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Egg and Sweetener

• 6 large egg yolks (beaten)
• 2/3 cup sugar

Spices

• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix together the milk, heavy cream, beaten egg yolks, sugar, and ground nutmeg thoroughly to create an even base for the eggnog.
2. Heat and Thicken: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly to prevent curdling. Cook the mixture until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, but avoid boiling to maintain a smooth texture and prevent scrambling the eggs.
3. Cool the Mixture: Remove the saucepan from heat and set it into a larger bowl filled with ice. Continue stirring the eggnog for about 2 minutes to cool it quickly and stop the cooking process.
4. Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and your choice of brandy, rum, or bourbon if desired. This adds a warm richness and depth to the eggnog.
5. Chill: Transfer the eggnog to a container and refrigerate it until it is thoroughly chilled, typically for several hours or overnight, before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• The type and amount of alcohol can be adjusted or omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
• Constant stirring while heating is crucial to avoid scrambled eggs and achieve a smooth custard consistency.
• Use fresh eggs and consume the eggnog within 2-3 days when refrigerated.
• Sprinkle additional nutmeg on top when serving for added aroma and decoration.
• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.

Keywords: homemade eggnog, holiday beverage, classic eggnog recipe, creamy eggnog, festive drinks, milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, brandy, vanilla extract