A warm, creamy, and nostalgic holiday favorite, this homemade eggnog recipe delivers the perfect balance of richness and spice. Made with simple kitchen staples like eggs, milk, cream, and nutmeg, this drink captures the essence of the season in every sip. Whether served chilled, warmed, or spiked with your favorite spirit, this classic beverage is surprisingly easy to make and tastes far better than any store-bought version.
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Why You’ll Love This Homemade Eggnog
You’ll love this homemade eggnog for its smooth, custard-like texture and classic holiday flavor. It’s rich yet perfectly balanced with nutmeg and vanilla for that cozy, festive feel. This recipe is simple, foolproof, and lets you control the sweetness or spice. You can make it kid-friendly or add your favorite spirit for a grown-up twist. It’s also a showstopper for parties and family gatherings, creating that nostalgic, comforting moment in every cup.
What Is Eggnog?
Eggnog is a creamy, custard-style drink traditionally made with milk, cream, sugar, eggs, and warm spices like nutmeg and cloves. It originated in early Europe and became a wintertime staple in the United States, especially around Christmas. Historically, people served it warm and often spiked it with rum or brandy to celebrate the season. Today, homemade eggnog remains a symbol of comfort, indulgence, and togetherness, offering a delicious taste of holiday tradition in every sip.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll need 7 large egg yolks, sugar, milk, heavy cream, ground nutmeg, optional cloves, salt, and vanilla extract. The yolks add richness and thickness. Sugar sweetens and balances the spices. Milk and cream make the base silky and full-bodied. Nutmeg and cloves add that familiar holiday warmth, while a pinch of salt sharpens flavor. Vanilla brings smoothness and aroma. Every ingredient works together for a creamy, spiced perfection that defines true homemade eggnog.
How to Make Homemade Eggnog
Whisk the Yolks and Sugar
Whisk the egg yolks and sugar in a bowl until the mixture turns pale and creamy. This step helps create that signature thick, custardy texture.
Heat the Milk and Cream
In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Heat gently over medium heat until it begins to steam, but don’t let it boil. This brings out the spice flavor.
Temper the Eggs
Slowly pour a little of the hot milk into the yolk mixture while whisking constantly. This prevents curdling. Then, gradually add the rest while whisking to combine smoothly.
Cook Until Thickened
Return the mixture to the pan and cook over medium heat until it reaches 160–170°F. Stir constantly so it thickens evenly without scrambling.
Chill and Serve
Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and discard the cloves. Pour into a container, cover, and refrigerate until cold. Serve plain or topped with cinnamon or whipped cream.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Eggnog
Always whisk steadily to prevent lumps. Strain before chilling for a silky texture. Adjust sugar or spices to suit your taste. Chill completely for the best flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of cream. When serving warm, reheat gently to avoid separating the custard. For smooth results, use a thermometer and stop cooking at 170°F.
Alcohol Options for Spiked Eggnog
Adding alcohol is optional, but it creates depth and warmth. Popular choices include bourbon, brandy, spiced rum, whiskey, or Irish cream. Start with 1/4 cup and adjust to taste. Mix it in once the custard cools to prevent curdling. Each spirit adds a unique note, from the sweetness of rum to the caramel depth of bourbon.
Serving and Garnish Ideas
You can serve homemade eggnog chilled, warm, or over ice. Add whipped cream for extra richness or sprinkle nutmeg for that classic look. For fun variations, top with peppermint sticks or cinnamon. You can also use it as creamer in coffee or blend it into hot chocolate for a festive twist. Pair it with gingerbread, sugar cookies, or fruitcake for a complete holiday treat.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
Refrigerate leftover eggnog in an airtight container for up to one week. Stir well before serving since spices may settle. You can also freeze it for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge and whisk before enjoying. For holiday prep, make it a day ahead to allow flavors to blend. Always keep it chilled, and avoid leaving it at room temperature for long.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some facts about eggnog?
Eggnog dates back to 13th-century Britain, where it was made with milk, eggs, and sherry. It became popular in America with the addition of rum and cream.
What does homemade eggnog taste like?
It’s creamy, sweet, and rich with hints of nutmeg and vanilla. The flavor is like drinkable custard with a cozy holiday warmth.
What is traditional eggnog made of?
Classic eggnog combines eggs, sugar, milk, cream, and spices such as nutmeg and cloves. Some versions also include alcohol like brandy or rum.
How do most people drink eggnog?
Many enjoy it chilled with a sprinkle of nutmeg. Some prefer it warm, while others spike it for parties or mix it into coffee or desserts.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- Festive White Christmas Sangria
- Starbucks Salted Caramel Cold Foam Cold Brew
- Hot Cocoa – Simple and Creamy Recipe
- Cranberry Orange Prosecco Punch
- Frozen Peach Bellini – Refreshing Drink
- Turmeric Tea – Soothing Detox Drink
Final Thoughts
Making homemade eggnog is easy and rewarding. It’s creamy, comforting, and brings that cozy holiday magic to your kitchen. Once you taste the real thing, you’ll never go back to store-bought. Try it for your next gathering and share the joy of this timeless favorite with family and friends. For more festive inspiration, follow us on Pinterest.
Homemade Eggnog
Equipment
- Mixing bowl For whisking yolks and sugar.
- Saucepan To heat and cook the mixture.
- Whisk Essential for blending smoothly.
- Thermometer To check temperature reaches 160–170°F.
- Strainer Optional, for an extra-smooth texture.
- Storage container To refrigerate eggnog after cooking.
Ingredients
- 7 large egg yolks
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 ¾ cups milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 whole cloves (optional)
- 1 pinch salt
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy, about 6–8 minutes.
- In a saucepan, heat milk, cream, nutmeg, cloves, and salt over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
- Slowly pour a small amount of hot milk into the yolks while whisking constantly to temper. Gradually add the rest, whisking continuously.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and it reaches 160–170°F.
- Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and discard cloves. Transfer to a container and refrigerate until cold before serving.
