Homemade Eggnog Recipe

Two glasses of creamy homemade eggnog garnished with cinnamon sticks, placed on a festive holiday table with pine sprigs.

5 from 1 vote

This creamy, classic cottage-style homemade eggnog recipe is the perfect holiday drink. Made from scratch with warm spices, this festive treat brings cozy cottage vibes to your table. Whether for a quiet evening or a holiday party, this eggnog is rich, smooth, and utterly delightful. Elevate your celebrations with a timeless recipe everyone will love.

Prep Time15

Cook Time10

Additional Time1

Total Time1 25

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Servings: servings

Calories: 853kcal

Author: Emily Rider

Ingredients

6 large egg yolks save whites for another recipe or freeze
¾ cup sugar superfine or granulated
3 cups whole milk
4 cups heavy cream
2 teaspoons freshly grated nutmeg
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
Optional: 1/4 cup brandy bourbon, spiced rum, or whiskey

Instructions

In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until light and creamy.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until it reaches a bare simmer.
Slowly add a spoonful of the hot milk mixture to the egg yolk mixture, whisking vigorously. Continue adding spoonfuls until most of the milk is incorporated.
Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan. Whisk constantly for 1 minute or until the mixture slightly thickens or reaches 160°F.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. If adding alcohol, do so now.
Strain the eggnog through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher or container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Serve chilled with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. Garnish with whipped cream or a cinnamon stick, if desired.

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