Drinks

Creamiest Homemade Eggnog Recipe

Bylilan Sage January 10, 2026January 10, 2026

Introduction

This creamiest homemade eggnog recipe is a rich and velvety holiday classic that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Made from scratch with simple ingredients, it offers a deliciously smooth texture and warming flavors that everyone will love.

A clear glass mug decorated with white snowflake patterns holds a thick, creamy beige drink filling most of the glass, topped with a swirl of white whipped cream sprinkled lightly with brown spice, all placed on a red felt snowflake mat that lies on a white marbled surface, with soft yellow bokeh lights in the blurred background and a small white bowl with a gold spoon nearby photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 large egg yolks, at room temperature
½ cup (4 oz/115 g) granulated sugar
2 cups (16 fl oz/480 ml) whole milk
1 cup (8 fl oz/240 ml) heavy cream
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
⅛ teaspoon salt
½ cup (4 fl oz/120 ml) dark rum, optional
Whipped cream, for garnish
Nutmeg, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar. Set aside while you prepare the milk mixture.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk, cream, and nutmeg until it reaches a simmer.
Step 3: Ladle a big spoonful of the hot milk mixture into the eggs, whisking vigorously to temper the eggs. Repeat, adding a big spoonful at a time.
Step 4: Once tempered, pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan on the stove.
Step 5: While whisking, cook over medium-low heat until the mixture thickens, about 4 minutes. It will thicken more as it cools.
Step 6: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla and salt.
Step 7: Pour the eggnog through a sieve into a jug and allow it to cool completely. Cover and chill for a minimum of 3 hours, up to 3 days.
Step 8: Serve topped with a sprinkle of nutmeg and freshly whipped cream. Add a splash of bourbon or dark rum if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a thicker texture, use more heavy cream and less milk.
Replace dark rum with bourbon or brandy for a different flavor.
For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the rum and enjoy as is.
Use fresh nutmeg for garnish to enhance the aroma and taste.

Storage

Store the eggnog covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving if any separation occurs. Reheat gently on the stove for a warm version or serve chilled.

How to Serve

A clear glass mug with white snowflake designs is filled with a creamy, light beige drink that shows tiny dark flecks, suggesting spice or vanilla; it is topped with a generous swirl of white whipped cream sprinkled with cinnamon powder, sitting on a bright red felt snowflake-shaped coaster, all against a white marbled background with soft blurred warm light circles in the distance. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pasteurized eggs for this recipe?

Yes, using pasteurized eggs is a safer choice to reduce the risk of foodborne illness, especially when serving children or pregnant women.

What if my eggnog is too thin?

Cook the mixture a little longer on low heat while whisking to help it thicken. Chilling also helps thicken it further. Alternatively, increase the cream content slightly next time.