While there’s nothing wrong with store-bought eggnog, you might be surprised to know that homemade eggnog is very easy to make and, in my opinion, much better. You can customize the sweetness level and add more or less spice to this creamy drink to your liking.
I’m a big fan of custard in general. And since eggnog is primarily made with milk and egg yolks, it’s essentially a spiced custard drink. This classic eggnog recipe is decadent, delicious, and perfect for the holiday season.
Related: Need more festive drink recipes? Try Coquito, Butterbeer, Pumpkin Smoothie, Turmeric Latte, Peppermint Mocha, Gingerbread Latte, and Medicine Ball Tea.
material
- egg yolk
- granulated sugar
- fresh cream
- milk
- vanilla essence
- cinnamon stick
direction
In a small mixing bowl, separate the egg yolks from the whites and reserve. Let’s set it aside.
In a medium saucepan, add sugar, cream, milk, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and cinnamon stick. Whisk over low/medium heat until very warm and the sugar has completely dissolved.
Slowly stir hot milk mixture into egg yolks, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring after each addition. The goal is to warm the egg yolk slowly, as it can curdle if it changes rapidly from cold to hot.
When the mixing bowl with the milk and egg yolks feels very warm to the touch (on the outside of the bowl), return the mixture to the pot. Heat until liquid reaches 160°F (71°C).
Pour the eggnog into a fine-mesh strainer to remove the sediment and cinnamon stick. Store in the refrigerator.
Tips and extras
- can be used Instant read thermometer or candy thermometer Check to see if the liquid has reached a food-safe temperature.
- It’s ok if the egg yolk is a little hard! It’s not ideal, but it won’t ruin your eggnog. Straining the mixture before cooling will remove any curdled bits.
- Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves to this recipe. Pumpkin pie spice might also be a nice addition.
- How about spiked eggnog? You can also add alcohol that goes well with cinnamon. Think bourbon, whiskey, brandy, rum, Kahlua, and more. Add 1 shot (1.5-2 oz) to each serving.
- For extra caffeine, add a shot or two of espresso to this and top with whipped cream.
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FAQ
Is eggnog hot or cold?
Eggnog is usually served cold unless added to a hot drink like an eggnog latte.
Does eggnog contain alcohol?
Eggnog itself does not contain alcohol. However, brandy, rum, and bourbon are commonly added to eggnog. If you’re at a party and aren’t sure, ask the host.
Is eggnog still made from eggs?
Classic homemade eggnog is made with egg yolks, but many commercial versions are also made with pasteurized eggs. However, you can also find versions made without eggs in stores.
How long can eggnog be stored in the refrigerator?
Homemade eggnog can be stored in the refrigerator for at least 2 to 3 days after it is made.
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Instructions
-
In a small mixing bowl, separate the egg yolks from the whites and reserve. Let’s set it aside.
-
In a medium saucepan, add sugar, cream, milk, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and cinnamon stick.
-
Whisk over low/medium heat until very warm and the sugar has completely dissolved.
-
Slowly add 1/2 cup of warm milk to the egg yolks, stirring after each addition. The goal is to warm the egg yolk slowly, as it can curdle if it changes rapidly from cold to hot.
-
When the mixing bowl with the milk and egg yolks feels very warm to the touch (on the outside of the bowl), whisk the mixture back into the pot.
-
Heat until liquid reaches 160°F (71°C).
-
Strain to remove the sediment and cinnamon stick. Store in the refrigerator.
Precautions
It’s ok if the egg yolk is a little hard! It’s not ideal, but it won’t ruin your eggnog. Straining the mixture before cooling will remove any curdled bits.
Feel free to add nutmeg, cinnamon, and other spices to this recipe. Pumpkin pie spice might also be a nice addition.
Homemade eggnog can be stored in the refrigerator for at least 2 to 3 days after it is made.
nutrition
Nutritional information table
homemade eggnog
Amount per serving
% daily value*
*Percent daily intake is based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Note: Nutritional information was automatically calculated using Spoonacular for your convenience. We recommend using your own nutritional calculations if necessary.
Source: A Beautiful Mess – abeautifulmess.com