Description

This creamy homemade eggnog is a rich and velvety holiday classic made with real egg yolks, whole milk, heavy cream, and warm spices. Perfectly sweetened and customizable with or without alcohol, it's a comforting festive drink for chilly evenings.

Ingredients

4 large egg yolks

1/3 cup maple syrup (or granulated sugar)

2 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional: 1/2 cup bourbon, rum, or brandy

Optional garnish: ground nutmeg or cinnamon stick

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Instructions

Whisk the egg yolks and maple syrup together in a mixing bowl until smooth and slightly lightened in color.
In a saucepan, combine the milk, cream, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Heat over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
Temper the eggs by slowly whisking in a ladleful of hot milk into the yolks, followed by another ladleful, whisking constantly.
Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened and it reaches 160°F (71°C). Do not boil.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and optional alcohol if using.
Let the mixture cool for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Once chilled, pour into glasses and garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a cinnamon stick if desired.

Notes

Store eggnog in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 4 days.

Stir before serving as it may settle.

Do not reheat to avoid curdling.

Use pasteurized eggs if concerned about safety.

For a dairy-free version, use almond milk and coconut cream.

Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra spice.

Sweeten more with extra maple syrup or condensed milk.

For a frothy version, fold in beaten egg whites before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Beverages
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 60mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 170mg