What Is Eggnog?
Eggnog is a thick, creamy, and dairy- and egg-based drink. It’s traditionally made in large batches and served at holiday gatherings. It’s often spiked with bourbon or rum, but it is also frequently served without alcohol.
What Does Eggnog Taste Like?
It’s hard to explain the flavor of eggnog to someone who hasn’t tasted it, but we’ll try: Eggnog is custardy, rich, creamy, and sweet. It tastes a bit like melted ice cream that’s been spiced with nutmeg.
This eggnog recipe for thick, creamy, and sweet eggnog with just the right amount of spice took me several years to perfect. The egg yolks are tempered for safety, and you can adjust the amount of rum to taste, or leave it out entirely so the whole family can enjoy this rich holiday treat. Once you taste it — you’ll never serve store-bought eggnog again!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Additional Time: 9 hrs
Total Time: 9 hrs 25 mins
Servings:12
Homemade eggnog is the perfect way to ring in the holiday season. This eggnog recipe is rich, creamy, and perfectly festive.
Eggnog Ingredients:
These are the ingredients you’ll need to make this classic eggnog at home:
- Milk and light cream: This traditional eggnog recipe contains milk and light cream
- Spices and seasonings: You’ll need cinnamon, cloves, vanilla extract, and nutmeg.
- Egg yolks: Egg yolks thicken the mixture, creating a decadent texture.
- Sugar: Of course, you’ll need white sugar for this dessert-like beverage.
- Rum: Spike your eggnog with light rum or leave it as-is for a non-alcoholic treat.
What Alcohol Goes In Eggnog?
This boozy eggnog recipe is spiked with light rum. You could also use brandy or bourbon, depending on what mood you’re in and what you have on hand. Of course, if you’d like, you can leave out the liquor altogether.
No matter how you serve it, everyone at your holiday party will love this cheery drink.
How to Make Eggnog
You’ll find the full, step-by-step recipe below — but here’s a brief overview of what you can expect when you make this traditional eggnog:
- Heat the milk, cinnamon, cloves, and a dash of vanilla. Boil, then remove from heat.
- Whisk the egg yolks, then whisk in the sugar.
- Gradually whisk the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat until thick, then strain to remove the cloves.
- Stir in the cream, rum, remaining vanilla, and nutmeg. Refrigerate overnight.
How to Store Eggnog
Store homemade eggnog in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to keep your eggnog for long, consider freezing it.
Can You Freeze Eggnog?
Yes, you can freeze eggnog for up to six months. Make sure to leave a few inches of room at the top of the container (the liquid will expand as it freezes). Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.