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Creamy Classic Eggnog Recipe Easy Homemade Holiday Delight

creamy classic eggnog recipe - featured image

A rich, smooth, and creamy homemade eggnog with a perfect balance of spices, ideal for any occasion and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 large eggs, separated (room temperature)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 g)
  • 2 cups whole milk (480 ml)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup dark rum or bourbon (optional, 120 ml)

Instructions

  1. Separate 6 large eggs into yolks and whites, placing yolks in one bowl and whites in another, ensuring no yolk gets into the whites.
  2. Beat the egg yolks with 3/4 cup granulated sugar until pale and thick, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  3. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream. Warm over medium-low heat until steaming but not boiling (around 160°F / 71°C), stirring occasionally.
  4. Slowly pour about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to avoid curdling. Then pour this mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk and cream.
  5. Heat the combined mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  7. Just before serving, beat the 6 egg whites until soft peaks form. Gently fold them into the chilled custard base.
  8. If desired, stir in 1/2 cup dark rum or bourbon. Adjust to taste.
  9. Pour into glasses, garnish with freshly grated nutmeg or cinnamon, and serve immediately.

Notes

Use pasteurized eggs or cook custard base to 160°F (71°C) for safety. Fold egg whites gently to keep texture light. Freshly grated nutmeg enhances flavor. Refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight for best taste. Can omit alcohol for non-alcoholic version.

Nutrition

Keywords: eggnog, homemade eggnog, holiday drink, creamy eggnog, classic eggnog, festive beverage, easy eggnog recipe