Eggnog Recipe
I always feel a little festive the moment someone asks for an Eggnog Recipe, because this drink carries enough cozy energy to warm up any kitchen. If you ever wondered what is eggnog or why people obsess over it every December, you are not alone. I asked myself the same thing before I made my first batch, and honestly, one sip convinced me I should have started ages ago. Ever crave something creamy, sweet, slightly spicy, and wildly comforting? Then eggnog might become your new seasonal love story.
So let’s hang out, chat about eggnog, and make a batch that tastes better than anything from the store. Sound good?
Why Homemade Eggnog Feels Magical
I always go for homemade eggnog because the flavor turns richer and more balanced. Store bought versions feel too thick or too sweet sometimes, and they never deliver that fresh spice aroma that hits you when you make your own. Ever take a sip from the carton and think, this tastes like holiday disappointment? You will not have that problem here.
What Makes Homemade Eggnog Recipe Stand Out
Homemade eggnog gives you full control over the flavor and ingredients. That alone makes a world of difference.
- Fresh eggs create natural creaminess
- Real dairy gives the drink body
- Warm spices add depth
- High quality vanilla delivers a luxurious finish
You taste actual love in the final drink.
Prep Time, Servings, Nutrition
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
- Servings: 6
Nutrition per Serving
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 29g
- Protein: 7g
Eggnog Ingredients You Need
This recipe makes 6 servings. Gather everything first so the process stays smooth and fun.
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 pinch ground cinnamon
- Optional: 1 cup rum, bourbon, or brandy
Now that your ingredients are ready, let’s walk through how to make eggnog.
Kitchen Tools You Need
You do not need anything fancy, which is one reason this eggnog recipe works for beginners.
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Fine mesh strainer
- Measuring cups and spoons
A strainer saves the day if the mixture thickens too fast. Trust me.
How to Make Eggnog
This method keeps things simple so anyone can master it.
Step 1: Mix Eggs and Sugar
Whisk the eggs and sugar until the mixture looks pale and slightly thick. This becomes the smooth eggnog base.
Step 2: Heat the Dairy
Warm the milk and cream in a saucepan. Heat until it steams lightly. No boiling or you scramble the eggs before they even join the party.
Step 3: Temper the Eggs
Slowly whisk half of the warm milk into the egg mixture. Ever hear people panic about this step? They probably rushed it. Tempering keeps your eggs from cooking too fast.
Step 4: Cook and Thicken
Pour everything back into the saucepan and cook over low heat. Stir until it coats the spoon. The consistency should feel slightly custardy.
Step 5: Add Spices and Vanilla
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon. The smell alone might convince you to drink it warm on the spot.
Step 6: Add Alcohol, Optional
If you wonder what alcohol goes in eggnog, rum, bourbon, and brandy all work great. Add it once the mixture cools.
Step 7: Chill and Serve
Chill at least two hours. Serve cold with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
What Does Eggnog Taste Like
People who try eggnog for the first time usually compare it to melted ice cream with warm spice notes. It tastes creamy, sweet, lightly spiced with nutmeg, and slightly custardy. Some versions feel boozy if alcohol is added. Ever tasted a dessert drink that feels like a hug? That is this eggnog recipe.
Variations You Might Like
Eggnog adapts easily, which makes it even more fun.
Chocolate Eggnog
Stir cocoa powder into your warm milk. It tastes like holiday chocolate pudding you can sip.
Vanilla Bean Eggnog
Scrape a fresh vanilla bean into the dairy while heating. The result feels gourmet.
Dairy Free Eggnog
Use almond milk and coconut cream to get a tropical twist.
What to Mix With Eggnog
Eggnog pairs beautifully with holiday desserts and snacks. Here are some ideas.
- Gingerbread cookies
- Shortbread
- Cinnamon rolls
- Pumpkin pie
- Coffee for a creamy latte style drink
- Spiced rum or bourbon for extra warmth
Does anything beat dessert plus eggnog? Probably not.
FAQs About Eggnog
I grouped the most common questions people ask, because eggnog brings a lot of curiosity with it.
What is eggnog?
Eggnog is a creamy holiday drink made with eggs, sugar, milk, cream, spices, and sometimes alcohol. It tastes like a custard based beverage with warm spice notes.
What is eggnog made of?
Traditional eggnog includes eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, and nutmeg. Some versions add alcohol.
Where did eggnog originate?
Eggnog traces back to medieval Britain. People drank a warm milk and egg drink called posset, and it evolved into the holiday version we know today.
Why is it called eggnog?
The name likely came from the word “noggin” which referred to a wooden cup. People served the drink in these cups, so “eggnog” stuck.
How long does eggnog last?
Homemade eggnog lasts 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator. If it contains alcohol, it sometimes lasts longer because alcohol acts as a preservative.
Can you freeze eggnog?
Yes, you can freeze eggnog. Freeze in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and whisk before serving.
Does eggnog have raw eggs?
Traditional eggnog uses eggs, but this recipe cooks them to keep things safe. Cooked versions avoid the concerns that come with raw eggs.
Can pregnant women drink eggnog?
Pregnant women should drink only fully cooked eggnog with no alcohol. Commercial eggnog often uses pasteurized eggs, but homemade versions must be cooked properly for safety.
Can dogs have eggnog?
No. Dogs should not have eggnog, especially versions with sugar, spices, and alcohol. Make your pup a safer holiday treat instead.
Is eggnog gluten free?
Yes, traditional eggnog is naturally gluten free. Always check labels on store bought versions just in case.
What alcohol goes in eggnog?
The best options include rum, bourbon, and brandy. Each one adds its own flavor twist.
What to mix with eggnog?
You can mix eggnog with coffee, chai, hot chocolate, caramel syrup, spiced rum, or bourbon.
Final Thoughts
Homemade eggnog tastes comforting, nostalgic, and rich with holiday charm. Once you learn this eggnog recipe with fresh ingredients, there is no going back. Try this Eggnog Recipe, make it your own, and enjoy every creamy sip. I would love to hear how your batch turned out, so leave your feedback in the comments and share your holiday genius with everyone 🙂
Eggnog
This eggnog pours smooth and silky, almost like melted vanilla ice cream in a glass. Each sip feels thick, creamy, and lightly spiced with warm nutmeg that clings to your tongue in the best way. The richness hits first, then that soft sweetness follows, tempting you to take another sip before you even set the glass down. It tastes cozy, indulgent, and downright irresistible.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 pinch ground cinnamon
- Optional: 1 cup rum, bourbon, or brandy
Instructions
- Whisk eggs and sugar in a bowl until pale.
- Heat milk and cream in a saucepan until steaming.
- Temper the eggs by slowly whisking in half the warm milk.
- Pour back into the saucepan and cook on low until slightly thick.
- Stir in vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon off the heat.
- Cool completely, then chill in the fridge.
- Optional: Add rum, bourbon, or brandy before serving.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 320Total Fat: 18gCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 7g