Our favorite homemade Eggnog Recipe combines milk and cream with egg yolks, sugar, nutmeg, and vanilla extract to create an irresistible holiday beverage.
Browse through our list of the top 50 cookie recipes to serve alongside this delicious beverage!
What is Eggnog?
Eggnog (also known as “egg milk punch” or “milk punch”) is a sweetened dairy-based beverage that is creamy and rich. It is traditionally made with milk, cream, sugar, egg yolks, and nutmeg. Our Eggnog Recipe adds in some vanilla, cinnamon, and salt to add even more flavor and nuance!
What Is Eggnog Supposed To Taste Like?
It is supposed to be very creamy and sweet with a hint of spice from the nutmeg and cinnamon. I think it tastes a little bit like a (thin) vanilla custard or the creme brûlée “batter” before it is baked!
The Ultimate Holiday Drink!
A few years back at a holiday party, the hostess made homemade Eggnog. As someone that usually passes up the holiday eggnog from the stores, I reluctantly took a cup. But one sip and I was hooked! After devouring every last drop (and stealing a few sips from my husband’s glass), I knew it was something I had to start making at home.
We all know nothing compares to homemade, but that is especially true with this beverage. Homemade Eggnog is the best! (No need to ask Siri “where to buy eggnog” ever again!)
Below are all the Eggnog Ingredients and why each ingredient makes it into this beverage!
What Is Eggnog Made Of?
- Whole Milk. For maximum flavor, richness, and thickness, we recommend whole fat milk. 2% will also work here, but avoid 1% or skim milk.
- Heavy Whipping Cream. Along with the milk, the cream helps thicken and ensure a rich flavor.
- Egg Yolks. Here’s where we get the “egg” in eggnog! The yolks add flavor and thickness. Save those whites to use in recipes calling for egg whites. Or throw a few in your scrambled eggs in the morning for some extra protein.
- Nutmeg, Cinnamon, and Vanilla. These ingredients add a lovely depth of flavor and give this beverage a “holiday touch.”
- Salt. Yes, even in a sweet beverage! Salt actually works to balance the sweetness out and enhance the overall flavor. Just a teeny bit is all you need!
- Alcohol. See Below.
What Alcohol Is In Eggnog?
Eggnog is typically made with rum, brandy, or bourbon.
We make this Eggnog non alcoholic so the kiddos can all enjoy it, but if you’re serving at an adult-only party feel free to get creative here. Also, if you’re not someone that enjoys overly sweet beverages note that the higher the alcohol level, the more it will cut through the sweetness of the rest of the ingredients.
The full recipe card is below, so here we’ll share our top tips for preparing this delicious Homemade Eggnog Recipe!
How To Make Eggnog
- Temper eggs gradually. We temper the eggs which means we’re bringing the egg temperature up slowly as to not cook the eggs. Take your time adding the cream to the eggs and whisking until totally smooth. Don’t rush this process or you may end up with scrambled eggs!
- Cook the beverage to 160 degrees F. I like to make sure by using a candy thermometer. Here is the candy thermometer I use and would highly recommend adding to your kitchen. (Then make our favorite Buttercrunch Candy or Honeycomb Candy!)
- Strain the mixture. To ensure an ultra smooth and creamy Eggnog, pour it through a mesh strainer. Thoroughly chill before enjoying!
Eggnog FAQs
1Do you drink eggnog hot or cold?
Eggnog is typically served cold, but you can choose to heat it if you’d like after a day of playing outside in the cold!
2Is eggnog made with raw eggs?
Yes, but it is made food safe by first tempering and then simmering the eggs until safe to consume.
3What is the best way to enjoy eggnog?
We like it best chilled with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. It’s such a sweet and rich beverage that it is great on its own served for dessert.
That said, it also lends well to being served alongside other holiday sweets like baked goods (think what you’d eat with a glass of milk.)
Try a glass of eggnog with warm pastries or cookies.
4Is drinking eggnog good for you?
It’s certainly good for the soul! 🙂 This is a dessert-beverage that is great enjoyed in moderation as a treat!
5How long does eggnog last?
Homemade eggnog typically lasts up to a week (with very fresh ingredients) if stored in an airtight container in the fridge. If it smells “off” it is likely no longer good to consume.
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Eggnog
Our favorite homemade Eggnog Recipe combines milk and cream with egg yolks, sugar, nutmeg, and vanilla extract to create an irresistible holiday beverage.
Eggnog
Our favorite homemade Eggnog Recipe combines milk and cream with egg yolks, sugar, nutmeg, and vanilla extract to create an irresistible holiday beverage.
Instructions
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CREAM & MILK: In a large nonstick pot set over medium-high heat, combine the cream, milk, nutmeg and salt. Stir often until mixture reaches a simmer (but don’t boil).
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EGGS & SUGAR: Meanwhile, in a large bowl, add the egg yolks only (save whites for another recipe or discard–Note 1) and white sugar. Use a whisk to whisk until combined.
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TEMPER THE EGGS: While whisking the egg mixture constantly and vigorously, scoop and very gradually pour in 1/2 cup of the hot cream mixture into the eggs. Repeat adding another 1/2 cup hot cream into eggs (gradually while whisking constantly) until incorporated. Repeat this process adding a total of one more cup.
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RETURN TO STOVE: Once the eggs are tempered, gradually pour the egg mixture back into the pot on the stove. Add it slowly while whisking constantly! Whisk constantly for a few minutes or until you can feel the mixture slightly thicken (or it hits 160 degrees F on a thermometer). Don’t worry–it thickens more as it cools.
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CHILL: Remove pot from heat and stir in the vanilla. If adding alcohol, add now too. Place a fine mesh strainer over a pitcher or another container and pour the eggnog through strainer. Cover container with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge until fully cooled, about 3 hours.
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SERVE: Pour into small glasses (it’s rich!) and top with a sprinkle of cinnamon OR a doll-up of whipped cream and sprinkle of cinnamon. Enjoy cold!
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STORE: Store leftover eggnog in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Recipe Notes
Note 2: Alcohol: A traditional eggnog recipe is typically made with rum, brandy, or bourbon. We make this Eggnog non alcoholic so the kiddos can all enjoy it, but if you’re serving at an adult-only party feel free to get creative here. Also, if you’re not someone that enjoys overly sweet beverages note that the higher the alcohol level, the more it will cut through the sweetness of the rest of the ingredients.
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 244kcal | Carbohydrates: 24.7g | Protein: 6.8g | Fat: 13.3g | Cholesterol: 234.8mg | Sodium: 90.4mg | Sugar: 24.2g
We do our best to provide accurate nutritional analysis for our recipes. Our nutritional data is calculated using a third-party algorithm and may vary, based on individual cooking styles, measurements, and ingredient sizes. Please use this information for comparison purposes and consult a health professional for nutrition guidance as needed.
