Description
This Creamiest Homemade Eggnog recipe offers a rich and velvety holiday classic made from scratch. Combining egg yolks, sugar, milk, cream, and warm spices, this luscious eggnog is gently cooked on the stovetop to achieve the perfect creamy texture. Optional dark rum adds a festive kick, making it ideal for Christmas gatherings or cozy winter evenings.
Ingredients
Scale
Egg Mixture
- 6 large egg yolks, at room temperature
- ½ cup (4 oz / 115 g) granulated sugar
Milk Mixture
- 2 cups (16 fl oz / 480 ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (8 fl oz / 240 ml) heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Flavorings and Garnishes
- 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
- Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 6 large egg yolks and ½ cup granulated sugar until smooth and pale. Set aside while you prepare the milk mixture.
- Warm Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, and ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg. Heat the mixture until it just reaches a simmer, making sure not to boil.
- Temper the Eggs: Slowly add a large spoonful of the hot milk mixture to the whisked eggs while whisking vigorously to gradually raise the temperature of the eggs without curdling. Repeat this process until about half of the hot milk mixture is incorporated.
- Combine and Cook: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture on the stove. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, for about 4 minutes until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon but does not boil.
- Add Vanilla and Salt: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract and ⅛ teaspoon salt to enhance the flavor.
- Strain and Chill: Pour the eggnog through a fine sieve into a jug to remove any cooked bits. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature before covering and chilling in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours and up to 3 days.
- Serve: When ready to serve, give the eggnog a gentle stir, pour into glasses, garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg and a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Add a splash of dark rum or bourbon for an adult version.
Notes
- Make sure eggs are at room temperature to prevent curdling during tempering.
- Do not let the milk mixture boil; overheating can cause the eggs to scramble.
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan for even heating.
- Straining the eggnog ensures a smooth, creamy texture without lumps.
- Chilling for several hours improves flavor and texture.
- Optional alcohol can be omitted for a family-friendly version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Eggnog, Homemade Eggnog, Christmas Drinks, Holiday Beverage, Creamy Eggnog, Classic Eggnog, Festive Drink
