Indulge in the rich, creamy delight of homemade eggnog. This classic holiday beverage is perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy night in. With a blend of eggs, milk, cream, and a hint of nutmeg, this recipe brings warmth and cheer to any occasion.
While most of the ingredients for this eggnog recipe are common pantry staples, you may need to pick up heavy cream and whole milk if you don't usually keep them on hand. Additionally, if you choose to add a splash of rum or bourbon, make sure to grab a bottle from the liquor section.

Ingredients For Eggnog Recipe
Eggs: Provide the rich, custardy base for the eggnog.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the mixture and balances the flavors.
Whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps to thin out the eggnog.
Heavy cream: Contributes to the luxurious, thick texture.
Ground nutmeg: Adds a warm, spicy note that is quintessential to eggnog.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of sweetness.
Rum: Optional, but adds a festive kick if desired.
Bourbon: Another optional spirit that can be used instead of rum for a different flavor profile.
Technique Tip for Making Eggnog
When tempering the eggs with the hot milk mixture, make sure to pour the milk slowly and whisk constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling and ensures a smooth, creamy eggnog.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
eggs - Substitute with silken tofu: Silken tofu provides a similar creamy texture and can be blended smoothly into the mixture.
granulated sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a natural sweetness and a hint of flavor that complements the spices.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that maintains the creamy consistency of the drink.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream offers a rich, creamy texture and a subtle coconut flavor that pairs well with the spices.
ground nutmeg - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon provides a warm, spicy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract adds a nutty, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
rum - Substitute with brandy: Brandy offers a similar warmth and depth of flavor, making it a suitable alternative.
bourbon - Substitute with whiskey: Whiskey provides a comparable richness and complexity, making it a good substitute.
Alternative Recipes Similar to Eggnog
How to Store or Freeze Your Eggnog
- Allow the eggnog to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can dilute the flavor and texture.
- Transfer the eggnog to an airtight container. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids work best to maintain freshness.
- Store the eggnog in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and become even more delicious over time.
- For longer storage, consider freezing the eggnog. Pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
- Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness. Frozen eggnog can be stored for up to 6 months.
- When ready to enjoy, thaw the eggnog in the refrigerator overnight. Give it a good stir or shake before serving to recombine any separated ingredients.
- If the texture seems off after thawing, blend it briefly to restore its creamy consistency.
- For an extra festive touch, garnish with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg or a cinnamon stick before serving.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Pour the eggnog into a saucepan and heat over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent curdling. Heat until it reaches your desired temperature, but avoid boiling.
Alternatively, microwave the eggnog in a microwave-safe mug or bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
For a frothy texture, use a milk frother or immersion blender after reheating. This will give your eggnog a light and airy consistency.
If you prefer a cold version, simply pour the eggnog over ice and stir well. This method is perfect for a quick and refreshing treat.
To add a festive touch, reheat the eggnog and then top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground nutmeg or cinnamon before serving.
Essential Tools for Making Eggnog
Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to whisk the eggs and sugar together until well combined.
Whisk: Essential for combining the eggs and sugar, and for continuously whisking the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture to prevent curdling.
Saucepan: Used to heat the milk and cream over medium heat until just simmering, and later to cook the eggnog mixture until thickened.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the milk, cream, sugar, and optional rum or bourbon.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the ground nutmeg and vanilla extract precisely.
Stirring spoon: Handy for stirring the eggnog mixture constantly while it thickens over low heat.
Refrigerator: Used to chill the eggnog before serving.
Serving glasses: For serving the chilled eggnog with a sprinkle of nutmeg on top.
Nutmeg grater: Optional but useful for grating fresh nutmeg over the eggnog before serving.
How to Save Time on Making Eggnog
Use a blender: Blend the eggs and sugar together for a faster, smoother mixture.
Preheat the milk: Warm the milk and cream in the microwave to save time on the stove.
Chill quickly: Pour the eggnog into a shallow dish to cool faster in the refrigerator.
Skip the alcohol: If you're in a hurry, omit the rum or bourbon to save a step.

Eggnog Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup rum or bourbon (optional)
Instructions
- 1. In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until well combined.
- 2. In a saucepan, heat the milk and cream over medium heat until just simmering.
- 3. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
- 4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
- 5. Remove from heat and stir in the nutmeg, vanilla extract, and rum or bourbon if using.
- 6. Chill in the refrigerator before serving. Serve with a sprinkle of nutmeg on top.
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