Homemade Eggnog Recipe
There’s nothing like the decadent, creamy taste of homemade eggnog. It tastes so much better than storebought and you get to control the ingredients!
The traditional eggnog is usually made with raw eggs, but if you find that scary, this recipe is for you. The eggs are tempered by gradually adding the warm milk and heating it up to 160 degrees.
This homemade eggnog recipe is non-alcoholic and kid-friendly.
For adults, spike your eggnog with rum, brandy, bourbon, or cognac, to taste.
How To Make Homemade Eggnog
Prep time: 10 minutes (+ time to chill)
Cook time: 10-15 minutes
Serves: 10-12
Ingredients:
- 12 eggs
- 1¼ c. sugar
- 4 c. whole milk
- 2 t. vanilla extract
- 1 t. ground nutmeg
- 2 c. evaporated milk
- 2 c. half & half
Optional Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Cinnamon sticks
- Dash of nutmeg
- Cocao powder
- Crushed candy cane pieces
Directions:
1. Combine eggs and sugar in a medium bowl and whisk until thoroughly combined. Transfer to a saucepan and slowly stir in whole milk, vanilla extract, and ground nutmeg.
2. In a separate bowl, stir evaporated milk and half and half until combined. Set aside.
3. Heat the egg mixture over medium-low heat while stirring constantly to prevent the milk from scorching.
4. When the mixture reaches 160 degrees on a candy thermometer, remove from heat and slowly whisk in evaporated milk mixture.
5. Cool slightly before tasting. Add more sugar or nutmeg, if desired, before transferring to an airtight container.
6. Refrigerate overnight or until thoroughly chilled.
7. Serve in mugs and garnish with whipped cream, cinnamon sticks, and/or a dash of nutmeg, if desired. Enjoy!
Notes:
The eggnog will thicken while it cools, so don’t worry if yours looks a bit runny.
Homemade Eggnog Variations
Ready to take it up a nog notch? Use these eggnog variations for even more fun!
- Pumpkin Spice – Add 1/3 cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of the pumpkin spice mix.
- Caramel – Add a teaspoon of caramel in each cup before pouring in the nog.
- Honey – Add a teaspoon of honey in each cup before pouring in the nog.
- Sprinkle cocoa powder on top.
When To Add Alcohol To The Eggnog?
You can add alcohol to the full batch or in the individual cups whichever you prefer.
What Is The Best Alcohol For Eggnog?
Traditionally brandy is most used for eggnog, but rum, bourbon, or cognac are great options too.
Do You Serve Eggnog Cold Or Warm?
Traditionally, eggnog is served cold, but warm eggnog is also delicious and perfect for a cold day. Kinda like mulled white wine!
How Long Does Homemade Eggnog Last?
Homemade eggnog typically lasts up to days in the fridge. When you use alcohol, it will last longer, up to 2 weeks depending on the amount of alcohol used.
Did You Know?
President George Washington was one of the first US presidents to serve eggnog. His version contained sherry, rum, and whiskey! Yowzer!
More Christmas Recipes
- Chocolate Whiskey Cake With Whiskey Ganache Recipe
- Mulled White Wine Recipe
- Festive Christmas Fudge Recipes
- Easy Christmas Cocktail Recipes