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The Ultimate Creamy Homemade Eggnog (Alcoholic & Non-Alcoholic Options)

A creamy glass of rich eggnog topped with freshly grated nutmeg, sitting near a window.
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Make rich, creamy homemade eggnog from scratch. This easy recipe yields a classic holiday beverage superior to store-bought versions, with options for spiking with spirits or keeping it non-alcoholic.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 large egg yolks
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, plus extra for garnish
  • Optional: 1/2 cup bourbon, dark rum, or brandy

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, and salt until the mixture is pale yellow and thick.
  2. In a saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until bubbles form around the edges, but do not boil.
  3. Slowly temper the egg mixture by pouring about one cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly.
  4. Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk and cream.
  5. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon (reaching about 170°F). Do not let it boil.
  6. Remove the saucepan from the heat immediately. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits.
  7. Stir in the vanilla extract and ground nutmeg.
  8. If making alcoholic eggnog, stir in your chosen spirit now.
  9. Cover the surface of the eggnog directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
  10. Before serving, whisk the chilled eggnog well. Pour into glasses and garnish each serving with a fresh sprinkle of ground nutmeg.

Notes

  • For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the bourbon, rum, or brandy. This recipe is great for meal planning around holiday gatherings.
  • If you are looking for alternatives to traditional dairy, consider using full-fat coconut milk or cashew milk for a different texture, though the richness will change.
  • This eggnog tastes best when made a day ahead.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.unfoldrecipes.com/easy-creamy-homemade-eggnog-recipe/