Make rich, creamy eggnog from scratch. This recipe includes instructions for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions.
Author:Jen Rwanda
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:4 hours 30 min
Yield:6 servings
Category:Dessert Drink
Method:Stovetop Cooking and Chilling
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
6 large egg yolks
1 cup granulated sugar
1 quart whole milk
1 pint heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, plus extra for garnish
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional: 1 cup bourbon, rum, or brandy
Instructions
In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until the mixture is pale yellow and thick.
In a large saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until small bubbles form around the edges; do not boil.
Slowly temper the egg mixture by pouring about one cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly.
Pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk and cream.
Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon (about 170°F). Do not let it boil.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
If making the non-alcoholic version, strain the mixture into a clean bowl, cover, and chill for at least 4 hours, or until very cold.
If making the alcoholic version, stir in your chosen spirit after the mixture has cooled slightly. Then, cover and chill for at least 4 hours.
Serve cold, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh nutmeg.
Notes
For a smoother texture, strain the custard base through a fine-mesh sieve before chilling.
If you prefer a thicker eggnog, reduce the amount of milk slightly or increase the chilling time.
You can age this eggnog for several weeks if you use alcohol, as the alcohol acts as a preservative.