Classic Eggnog
Creamy, Dreamy Holiday Perfection
There’s something magical about sipping on a creamy, spiced glass of classic eggnog during the holidays. The rich, velvety texture paired with warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla makes it a quintessential festive treat. Whether you’re celebrating with family or hosting a holiday party, this homemade eggnog is guaranteed to impress. Unlike the store-bought versions, this recipe is made from scratch, allowing you to customize its sweetness, creaminess, and even add a boozy twist if you like.
Making eggnog from scratch may seem intimidating, but it’s easier than you think. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a drink that’s worlds apart from anything you’d find in a carton. Serve it chilled in a beautiful glass, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg, and you’ve got yourself a true holiday masterpiece. Let’s get started and make this holiday classic your new favorite tradition!
Try some of our other recipes!
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Eggnog
Eggnog is a rich and indulgent drink that pairs beautifully with a variety of holiday treats. Its creamy texture and warm, spiced flavor make it a versatile complement to both sweet and savory snacks. Here are some delicious pairing ideas to elevate your eggnog experience:
- Classic Cookies: Traditional holiday cookies like gingerbread, snickerdoodles, or sugar cookies are perfect companions to eggnog. The spices in the cookies harmonize beautifully with the flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg in the drink.
- Festive Cakes and Pastries: Serve eggnog alongside a slice of fruitcake, stollen, or a light pound cake. The drink’s creaminess balances the dense, rich flavors of these holiday favorites.
- Spiced Nuts: A bowl of candied pecans or roasted almonds seasoned with cinnamon and sugar adds a delightful crunch and complements the drink’s warm spices.
- Savory Bites: Don’t be afraid to contrast eggnog’s sweetness with savory snacks. Mini quiches, cheese platters, or buttery crackers offer a perfect balance to the rich drink.
- Fresh Fruits: For a lighter pairing, serve eggnog with fresh fruits like pears, apples, or berries. The fruity sweetness provides a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy beverage.
- Dessert Bars: Indulge in rich dessert bars like brownies, blondies, or pecan bars for an ultra-decadent holiday treat.
Pairing eggnog with the right foods not only enhances its flavor but also creates a more memorable and festive experience for your guests. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, these pairings will make your holiday celebrations even more special!
Kid-Friendly Eggnog: A Sweet Treat for the Little Ones
Eggnog isn’t just for adults—kids can enjoy this creamy, festive drink too! By making a few simple adjustments, you can whip up a kid-friendly version that’s just as rich and flavorful as the original. Here’s how to create an alcohol-free eggnog that will delight your little ones this holiday season:
Tips for a Kid-Friendly Eggnog:
- Skip the Booze: Leave out the rum, bourbon, or brandy entirely to make the recipe safe and enjoyable for children.
- Add a Fun Twist: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle in a little caramel or chocolate syrup. You could even stir in a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
- Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding a splash of orange juice or a tiny drop of peppermint extract to give the eggnog a fun and unique flavor that kids will love.
- Serve It Warm or Cold: Younger kids might enjoy eggnog warm, almost like a holiday hot chocolate. Sprinkle some mini marshmallows on top for a festive touch.
- Get Creative with Garnishes: Let the kids decorate their eggnog with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a dusting of cocoa powder, or colorful holiday sprinkles.
Make It a Holiday Activity:
Turn making eggnog into a family-friendly activity! Let the kids help measure ingredients, whisk the egg mixture, or decorate their own mugs. This not only makes the process fun but also creates lasting holiday memories.
Kid-friendly eggnog is a wonderful way to include children in the festive spirit and introduce them to a classic holiday tradition. It’s creamy, cozy, and customizable—a treat the entire family will love!
Classic Eggnog
Equipment
- Medium Mixing Bowl: For whisking the egg yolks and sugar together.
- Whisk: To ensure smooth and creamy mixtures throughout the process.
- Medium Saucepan: For heating the milk, cream, and spices, and cooking the eggnog base.
- Ladle: For tempering the eggs with the warm milk mixture.
- Heatproof Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the mixture while it thickens on the stove.
- Fine-Mesh Strainer (Optional): To strain the eggnog if you want an extra smooth texture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure ingredients.
- Pitcher or Airtight Container: For storing the eggnog while it chills in the refrigerator.
- Serving Glasses or Mugs: To present your eggnog beautifully when ready to serve.
- Grater (Optional): For freshly grating nutmeg as a garnish.
Ingredients
For the Eggnog Base
- 6 Large egg yolks
- 1 Cup Granulated sugar
- 2 Cups Whole milk
- 1 Cup Heavy cream
- 1/2 Tsp Ground cinnamon
- 1/2 Tsp Ground nutmeg
- 1 Tsp Pure vanilla extract
Optional (But Highly Recommended)
- 1/2 Cup Run, bourbon or brandy
- Whipped cream
- Ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Egg MixtureIn a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture is pale and thick. This step is crucial for a creamy texture and ensures the sugar dissolves completely.Tip: Use a hand or stand mixer to save time and achieve a smoother consistency.
- Heat the Milk and CreamIn a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warm but not boiling.Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the saucepan—scalded milk can ruin the eggnog’s flavor.
- Temper the EggsGradually ladle a small amount of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly. This step prevents the eggs from scrambling. Slowly add the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring continuously.Note: Patience is key here—too much heat too quickly can curdle the eggs.
- Cook Until ThickenedCook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 8–10 minutes). Avoid letting it boil.
- Add Vanilla and AlcoholRemove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. If using alcohol, add it now for a festive twist.
- Chill and ServePour the eggnog into a pitcher or container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Cheers to New Holiday Traditions
There’s something truly special about creating a homemade treat that brings loved ones together, and this classic eggnog recipe is no exception. Whether you’re sharing it at a festive gathering or sipping it by the fire with your family, it’s a simple yet meaningful way to add warmth and joy to the season.
As you mix, whisk, and sprinkle, remember that the magic isn’t just in the recipe—it’s in the moments shared with those who matter most. I hope this eggnog becomes a cherished part of your holiday traditions, filling your home with comfort, laughter, and delicious memories.
If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear about it! Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let me know how you made it your own. Wishing you and your family a holiday season filled with love, cheer, and, of course, the perfect cup of eggnog. Cheers!