If you have ever wanted to create a festive holiday drink that captures the warmth and comfort of the season, this Homemade Eggnog Recipe is your perfect companion. Creamy, spiced, and just boozy enough when you add bourbon, this classic drink brings together simple ingredients to deliver a smooth, velvety texture and irresistible flavor. Whether you’re celebrating with family or cozying up on a chilly night, this recipe promises a delightful experience that feels truly special and homemade.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy or hard to find here—just a handful of essential ingredients that work beautifully in harmony to create that luscious, aromatic eggnog you know and love. Each component plays a starring role, from the rich egg yolks giving body, to the warming spices that add depth and nostalgia.
- Granulated sugar: Provides the perfect balance of sweetness without overpowering the spices.
- Eggs: Separated for texture, the yolks add creaminess while the whites lighten the mixture with fluffy peaks.
- Milk: Acts as a smooth base that blends beautifully with the cream.
- Heavy cream: Adds luscious richness that makes each sip decadent.
- Nutmeg: The classic spice that gives eggnog its unmistakable warm aroma.
- Cinnamon: Enhances the spiced flavor while complementing the nutmeg.
- Ginger: Offers a subtle, zesty kick that balances the creaminess.
- Bourbon (optional): Adds a lovely depth and gentle boozy warmth if you want an adult version.
- Candy canes, crushed: Perfect for rim garnish or a festive touch in the glass.
- Chocolate, melted: For drizzling or dipping to add a rich, indulgent layer.
- Cinnamon sticks: Great for stirring and adding an extra hint of spice in each glass.
How to Make Homemade Eggnog Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Beat the Egg Yolks
Start by separating the eggs because this recipe treats yolks and whites separately to achieve the ideal texture. Beat the egg yolks until they lighten in color—this fluffiness helps give the eggnog a silky smooth mouthfeel. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until it dissolves completely. This ensures your eggnog is sweet but never gritty.
Step 2: Heat the Milk and Cream Mixture
In a saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and the trio of spices: nutmeg, cinnamon, and ginger. Gently bring this mixture to a boil while stirring frequently. The aromatic steam fills your kitchen, instantly making you feel cozy and ready for the holidays. Removing it promptly preserves the fresh dairy flavors balanced by just the right amount of spice.
Step 3: Temper the Eggs
Slowly add a few ladles of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture while stirring constantly. This step, known as tempering, warms the eggs gently, preventing them from scrambling and creating that luscious, custard-like consistency that’s central to great eggnog.
Step 4: Cook the Eggnog
Pour the combined egg and milk mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat. Stir constantly until the temperature reaches 160°F. This step cooks the eggs safely and thickens the mixture just right. Do not rush it—patience here ensures a velvety, silky texture.
Step 5: Add Bourbon and Chill
After removing the saucepan from heat, stir in the bourbon if you’re using it. This boozy touch adds complexity and warmth, perfect for adult celebrations. Cover your eggnog with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour—it tastes even better chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Beat the Egg Whites and Finish
While waiting, beat the reserved egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the reserved tablespoon of sugar, then beat until stiff peaks develop. Folding these fluffy whites into the chilled eggnog lightens the drink while maintaining its rich, creamy character. Now your Homemade Eggnog Recipe is ready to impress!
How to Serve Homemade Eggnog Recipe
Garnishes
Presentation is everything when serving eggnog! Crush candy canes for a festive, minty rim that sparkles with holiday cheer. A sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg or a cinnamon stick stirrer adds not only flavor but that classic, welcoming aroma. For a decadent twist, drizzle some melted chocolate inside the serving glass before pouring the eggnog for a touch of indulgence.
Side Dishes
This creamy, rich drink pairs wonderfully with classic holiday snacks. Think buttery shortbread cookies, spiced ginger snaps, or even a slice of rich fruitcake. The sweetness and spice of these treats complement the creamy eggnog beautifully, creating a festive flavor harmony your guests will treasure.
Creative Ways to Present
Pour your eggnog into charming mugs or clear glasses to show off its creamy color. Add a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg on top and float a cinnamon stick for a classy touch. For a crowd, serve it in a punch bowl garnished with whole spices and candy canes for easy self-serving and an inviting centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Homemade eggnog stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to keep it covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to preserve its delicate flavors and creamy texture. Gently stir before serving again as some separation is natural over time.
Freezing
While traditional eggnog does not freeze well due to its dairy and egg content, you can freeze the mixture before adding egg whites for longer storage. However, expect some texture changes upon thawing, so fresh eggnog is always the tastiest option.
Reheating
If you prefer your eggnog warm, gently reheat on low heat, stirring constantly to avoid curdling. Never boil it, as that will ruin the smooth texture and richness. Warm eggnog is perfect for chilly evenings, offering comforting heat without losing its charm.
FAQs
Is it safe to use raw eggs in this Homemade Eggnog Recipe?
This recipe cooks the egg yolks by tempering and heating them to 160°F, which significantly reduces any risk from raw eggs, making it safe to enjoy. If you’re concerned, opting for pasteurized eggs is another excellent option.
Can I make this eggnog without alcohol?
Absolutely! The bourbon is optional and adds great flavor, but this eggnog tastes just as delicious without it, making it perfect for kids and those avoiding alcohol.
What can I use if I don’t have bourbon?
Feel free to substitute bourbon with dark rum, brandy, or even a splash of vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic flavor boost. Each brings a unique twist, so experiment to find your favorite variation.
How long does Homemade Eggnog Recipe last?
For the freshest flavor and safety, consume within 3 days when refrigerated. Homemade eggnog has no preservatives, so enjoying it promptly ensures the best taste and texture.
Can I prepare the spiced milk mixture ahead of time?
You can prepare the milk and spice mixture ahead, even a day before, and refrigerate it covered. This can help save time on the day of serving while letting the spices infuse more deeply into the milk.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about crafting your own Homemade Eggnog Recipe from scratch. Its creamy, spiced goodness and festive appeal make it a holiday classic worth perfecting and sharing. Whether sipped by the fire or served at a joyful gathering, this eggnog promises warmth, comfort, and smiles in every glass. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this timeless delight—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Homemade Eggnog Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus at least 1 hour chilling
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Homemade Eggnog Recipe is a classic, creamy holiday beverage made with rich egg yolks, warm spices, milk, cream, and a splash of bourbon. Perfectly tempered and cooked to ensure safety, then chilled and topped with fluffy whipped egg whites for a smooth, festive treat. Garnished with crushed candy canes, melted chocolate, and cinnamon sticks for an extra holiday flair.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 6 eggs, separated
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- â…› teaspoon ginger
- 1 cup bourbon (optional)
Garnishes
- 4 candy canes, crushed
- 2 ounces chocolate, melted
- 6 cinnamon sticks
Instructions
- Prepare Sugar: Set aside 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar from the total ½ cup for later use with the egg whites.
- Beat Egg Yolks: In the bowl of your mixer, add the egg yolks and beat until they lighten in color. Gradually add the remaining sugar and continue beating until the sugar dissolves completely. Set aside this mixture.
- Heat Milk Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, and ginger. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Once boiling, remove from heat.
- Temper Eggs: Slowly add about 4 to 5 ladles of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, stirring constantly to gradually raise the egg mixture temperature without curdling. This tempering method ensures a smooth texture.
- Cook Eggnog: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and reaches a safe temperature of 160°F to properly cook the eggs.
- Add Bourbon and Chill: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the bourbon, if using. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to chill and let flavors meld.
- Beat Egg Whites: In a clean medium bowl, beat the reserved egg whites until soft peaks form. Add the reserved tablespoon of sugar gradually and beat again until stiff peaks form, creating a light and fluffy meringue.
- Finish and Serve: Gently fold or whisk the beaten egg whites into the chilled eggnog for a creamy, frothy texture. Serve cold, garnished with crushed candy canes, drizzled melted chocolate, and a cinnamon stick in each glass for a festive presentation.
Notes
- Use fresh, very clean eggs to reduce risk when consuming raw or lightly cooked eggs.
- Heating the eggnog mixture to 160°F ensures food safety by killing harmful bacteria.
- Bourbon is optional; omit it for a non-alcoholic version.
- Chilling the eggnog before serving enhances flavor and texture.
- Garnishes like crushed candy canes and melted chocolate add a festive and flavorful twist.
- Store leftover eggnog in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
