What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade eggnog recipe is a holiday classic you’ll want to make year after year, and it’s so much easier than you might think. First, it’s incredibly creamy and rich, with just the right balance of sweetness and spice. Second, you can customize it to your taste, adding more nutmeg or cinnamon if you like. Finally, it’s a fun and festive way to share warm holiday cheer with family and friends, making it a must-try tradition.
Recipe
Intro
Homemade eggnog is a rich, creamy holiday classic made with eggs, milk, sugar, and spices. This traditional recipe delivers a smooth, indulgent drink perfect for festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup bourbon or rum (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
- Gradually add sugar while whisking until fully dissolved.
- In a saucepan, heat milk, cream, nutmeg, and cinnamon over medium heat until steaming (do not boil).
- Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the eggs while whisking continuously.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly (about 160°F).
- Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and alcohol (if using).
- Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher.
- Chill for at least 4 hours before serving.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Notes
- For alcohol-free eggnog, omit bourbon or rum.
- Store refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Fine-mesh sieve
- Pitcher
Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Chilling time: 4 hours
Cuisine
American
Serving
6-8 servings
Nutrition
Homemade eggnog is a rich and creamy holiday treat that can be enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving (1 cup).
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 343 kcal |
| Fat | 19 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Cholesterol | 150 mg |
| Sodium | 115 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 34 g |
| Sugar | 29 g |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Calcium | 170 mg |
| Potassium | 258 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade eggnog with sweet treats like gingerbread cookies or cinnamon rolls—they bring out the rich, creamy flavors. If you prefer something savory, try cheese and crackers or spiced nuts for a nice contrast. Either way, these combos make sipping eggnog even more fun.
Sweet Treat Pairings
There’s nothing quite like sipping creamy homemade eggnog while nibbling on something sweet—it’s the perfect way to balance the rich, spiced flavors. I love pairing mine with soft gingerbread cookies; their warmth complements the nog’s cozy notes. Shortbread dipped in dark chocolate adds a buttery crunch, while cinnamon-dusted snickerdoodles bring extra spice. For a lighter touch, try vanilla bean macarons—their delicate sweetness won’t overpower. And if you’re feeling indulgent, a slice of pecan pie or fudgy brownie makes every sip feel like dessert. Each bite enhances the eggnog’s velvety richness, creating pure holiday magic.
Savory Snack Options
Balancing eggnog’s sweetness with something savory can be just as satisfying as pairing it with desserts. I love serving crispy bacon-wrapped dates or a charcuterie board with cured meats, cheeses, and olives. The saltiness contrasts perfectly with the creamy drink. Warm, flaky pastries like savory hand pies or cheese straws are also a hit. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll whip up mini quiches or stuffed mushrooms. Even simple options like spiced nuts or garlic herb crackers work wonders. These snacks aren’t just delicious—they keep the rich eggnog from feeling too heavy. Trust me, you’ll want to try these combos!
