Description
This homemade eggnog recipe is a creamy, indulgent holiday classic made with fresh eggs, sugar, heavy cream, and milk, spiced with nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor. Optional alcohol like bourbon or rum can elevate it to an adult treat!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (or freshly grated)
- 1 cup bourbon or rum (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
Separate the egg yolks and whites into two bowls. Set the whites aside. - Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar:
In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar until pale yellow and thick. - Heat Milk and Cream:
In a saucepan, combine milk and cream. Heat over medium until steaming but not boiling (about 5 minutes). - Temper the Eggs:
Slowly add the hot milk/cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking to prevent scrambling. - Cook the Mixture:
Return the combined mixture to the saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 10 minutes). - Add Nutmeg and Alcohol:
Stir in the nutmeg and any alcohol if using. Let cool slightly. - Whip Egg Whites:
Beat the egg whites until soft peaks form, then gently fold them into the cooled eggnog mixture to add fluffiness. - Strain and Serve:
Strain the eggnog through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher. Serve chilled.
Notes
- For a Lighter Version: You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream to reduce the richness.
- Alcohol: Add rum, bourbon, or both for an adult version, but it’s optional for a non-alcoholic treat.
- Nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg gives the best flavor, but pre-ground nutmeg works too.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 17g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g