Homemade Eggnog Recipe

If you’ve ever wondered how to make rich, creamy, and warmly spiced eggnog right in your own kitchen, then you’re going to love this Homemade Eggnog Recipe. I absolutely love this because it captures that nostalgic holiday magic without any preservatives or weird additives. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never want the store-bought stuff again!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Homemade Eggnog Recipe plays an important role in layering flavor, balancing sweetness, and bringing that comforting holiday spirit. I like to choose fresh, good-quality eggs and opt for whole spices when I can—it really makes a difference!

• Whole milk: Provides the creamy base and dilutes the richness just enough.
• Whole cloves: These little guys add warm, aromatic depth—don’t skip them!
• Ground cinnamon: Essential for that familiar spiced flavor; freshly ground if possible.
• Ground nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg takes this recipe to another level of deliciousness.
• Egg yolks: The secret to thickening and richness—make sure they’re fresh and at room temperature if you can.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens naturally without overpowering the spices.
• Heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess and body to the eggnog.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a subtle sweetness and warmth.
• Spiced rum or bourbon (optional): I love adding spiced rum for a boozy kick, but keep it out for a family-friendly version.

Variations

This Homemade Eggnog Recipe is great as-is, but I love tweaking it to fit different occasions or dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to play around with the spices or even try a non-alcoholic version—you’ll be surprised how easy it is to make it your own.

• Non-Alcoholic Version: I usually just skip the rum or bourbon and add a touch of extra vanilla and nutmeg for a kid-friendly favorite.
• Vegan Twist: I’ve experimented with oat milk and coconut cream for a plant-based eggnog that’s still creamy and festive.
• Spice it Up: Adding a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom can bring a unique warm depth that impressed my holiday guests.
• Extra Boozy: Sometimes I add a mix of dark rum and bourbon for a stronger adult treat that my family goes crazy for.

How to Make Homemade Eggnog Recipe

Step 1: Warm the Milk and Spices

Start by combining your whole milk with the cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small saucepan. I always use whole spices when I can, to get that true depth of flavor. Slowly bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. You want it warm enough for the spices to infuse, but keep a close eye—milk can easily boil over! This step is key in building the flavor foundation of your eggnog.

Step 2: Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar

While the milk is heating, whisk the egg yolks and granulated sugar in a medium bowl until they turn light and fluffy, usually 2-3 minutes. I like to use a hand whisk for this—it’s simple and effective. This step is important because it creates a smooth, creamy texture and helps incorporate air for that silky body in your eggnog.

Step 3: Temper the Eggs

This is where many people get nervous, but I’ve learned that patience is everything! Slowly add a very small amount of the hot milk mixture to the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper them. If you add the milk too quickly, you’ll end up with scrambled eggs—not tasty! Keep whisking and gradually pour in the rest of the milk mixture, fully combining everything.

Step 4: Cook Until Thickened

Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, usually 3-5 minutes. Just a note—never let it boil here because the eggs might curdle. Once thickened, remove it from heat and strain out the cloves before letting it cool.

Step 5: Finish and Chill

After letting the mixture cool for about an hour, whisk in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and spiced rum if you’re using it. The cream adds that luscious body we all love, and the vanilla rounds out the flavors beautifully. Chill for several hours or overnight to let the flavors fully meld—this is actually where the magic happens!

How to Serve Homemade Eggnog Recipe

Garnishes

I love to dust a little ground cinnamon or freshly grated nutmeg on top before serving—it adds a lovely aroma and just the right hint of spice. Sometimes, I float a cinnamon stick in the glass for a rustic, festive touch that guests always appreciate.

Side Dishes

This eggnog pairs amazingly well with classic holiday treats like gingerbread cookies, buttery sugar cookies, or even a slice of pumpkin bread. I’ve found that the richness of the drink balances out the spices in these desserts perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday parties, I like serving the eggnog in festive mugs or chilled glassware rimmed with cinnamon sugar. Adding a dollop of whipped cream on top makes it extra indulgent and just screams celebration. Serving alongside a small plate of mini gingerbread men always earns me compliments!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover homemade eggnog in an airtight container in the fridge. Before serving again, just give it a good shake or stir since the cream can settle. It stays fresh and delicious for about 2-3 days, which is great because it’s hard not to sip throughout the season!

Freezing

Freezing isn’t my favorite for this recipe because the texture can get a bit grainy once thawed, but if you want to save it longer, you can freeze it in an airtight bottle and thaw slowly in the fridge. Just be sure to stir well when you’re ready to drink.

Reheating

If you prefer your eggnog warm, gently heat it over low heat on the stove while stirring constantly. Don’t rush this step or heat too aggressively—that can cook the eggs and ruin the silky texture. A slow warm-up preserves the creaminess beautifully.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t tell you how many times this Homemade Eggnog Recipe has been the star drink during my holiday gatherings. What makes it truly special for me is how easy it is to make and how much everyone enjoys it—kids, adults, everyone asks for seconds! If you want to impress your friends or just treat yourself to a cozy, classic favorite, give this recipe a try. I promise, homemade eggnog will become your new holiday tradition.

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