Classic Joy of Cooking Eggnog Recipe for Holiday Cheers

Indulge in the joy of cooking’s eggnog, a liquid symphony of winter’s most cherished memories.

This creamy elixir whispers tales of festive gatherings and heartwarming traditions.

Velvety egg yolks and sugar waltz together, creating a decadent dance of flavors that caress your palate.

Whipped cream adds a luxurious dimension, elevating this classic beverage beyond mere refreshment.

Delicate nutmeg dusts the surface, evoking nostalgic scenes of crackling fireplaces and intimate family moments.

Each sip carries the essence of generations who treasured this beloved recipe.

You’ll fall in love with this enchanting concoction that transforms simple ingredients into a magical winter experience.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 400 kcal

Servings: 5

What Goes into Making Eggnog

• Cream, Milk: Select full-fat dairy for richer, more luxurious texture and deeper flavor profile.

• Sugar: Choose fine granulated sugar that dissolves smoothly without graininess.

• Egg Whites: Pick fresh, room-temperature eggs for optimal volume and smooth incorporation.

• Nutmeg: Select whole nutmeg for freshly grated, more aromatic spice experience.
• Salt: Use fine sea salt to balance and enhance overall taste.

• Vanilla Extract: Opt for pure vanilla extract with deep, complex flavor notes.
• Alcohol (Optional): Choose bourbon or rum for traditional warmth and depth.

• Whipped Cream: Select heavy cream with high fat content for stable, fluffy topping.
• Ground Nutmeg: Use freshly grated nutmeg for vibrant, intense spice aroma.

Eggnog-Making Essentials and Tools

• Whisk: Medium-sized, perfect for vigorous mixing of egg whites and sugar.
• Medium bowl: Spacious container for combining egg whites and sugar.
• Pot: Sturdy cooking vessel for heating dairy and spices.
• Measuring spoons: Precise tools for adding salt and nutmeg.
• Fine mesh sieve: Essential for straining and ensuring smooth texture.
• Pitcher or container: Ideal for storing and chilling eggnog.
• Plastic wrap: Helps protect the mixture while cooling.
• Thermometer: Crucial for checking safe egg mixture temperature.
• Whipped cream dispenser (optional): Great for easy topping.
• Grater: Helps create fresh nutmeg garnish.
• Blender (optional): Useful for adjusting eggnog consistency.

How to Mix a Homemade Eggnog

• Whip Egg Clouds

Grab a mixing bowl and combine egg whites with sugar. Energetically whisk until the mixture transforms into fluffy, cloud-like peaks that look light and airy.

• Warm Creamy Base

Grab a saucepan and pour in cream and milk. Sprinkle in warm spices like nutmeg and a tiny pinch of salt. Heat gently, stirring constantly until the liquid steams but doesn’t boil.

• Carefully Blend Temperatures

Slowly introduce hot milk into egg whites, adding small amounts while whisking vigorously. This technique prevents scrambling and creates a silky smooth foundation for your drink.

• Cook and Thicken

Transfer the blended mixture back to the saucepan. Continuously stir and cook until the liquid reaches a safe temperature and starts to slightly thicken, which guarantees a rich, velvety texture.

• Add Finishing Touches

Pull the saucepan off the heat. Splash in vanilla extract and optional splash of festive spirits for an extra kick of flavor.

• Chill and Prepare

Strain the liquid through a fine mesh to ensure ultimate smoothness. Cover and refrigerate until completely cold and refreshing.

• Serve and Enjoy

Pour into glasses, dust with fresh nutmeg, and top with a dollop of whipped cream. For a perfect consistency, thin with milk if needed.

Tips and Extras for Better Eggnog

• Elevate Egg Whites: Ensure your egg whites reach room temperature before whisking for maximum volume and smoother texture.
• Customize Creaminess: Experiment with different milk alternatives like almond, oat, or coconut milk for unique flavor profiles and dietary preferences.
• Spike with Spirits: Add bourbon, rum, or brandy for an adult version, adjusting the amount to suit your taste. Start with 1/4 cup and increase gradually.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the eggnog base up to 3 days in advance, allowing flavors to meld and deepen in the refrigerator before serving.

Serving Eggnog Cold or Warm

• Pair with Holiday Cookies: Dunk crisp gingerbread or sugar cookies into the creamy eggnog for a delightful festive treat that combines smooth textures and rich flavors.
• Spike for Adult Gatherings: Add bourbon, rum, or brandy to create a spirited version perfect for holiday parties, enhancing the drink's warmth and complexity.
• Create Eggnog Dessert Parfait: Layer chilled eggnog with crushed graham crackers, sprinkle with nutmeg, and top with whipped cream for an elegant layered dessert that showcases the classic holiday drink.
• Breakfast Eggnog French Toast: Use leftover eggnog as a decadent batter for french toast, transforming the festive drink into a luxurious morning meal with deep, nostalgic flavors.

Storing Eggnog Safely in the Fridge

• Preserve Freshness: Keep your homemade eggnog in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its delightful flavor and creamy texture. Consume within a week for the best taste experience.
• Chill and Seal: Transfer the eggnog to a clean glass bottle or mason jar with a tight-fitting lid. Refrigeration helps lock in the rich, smooth consistency and prevents bacterial growth.
• Smart Portioning: Divide the eggnog into smaller containers if you plan to enjoy it over several days. This prevents repeated temperature changes that could compromise the quality and taste.
• Freezing Option: For longer storage, freeze the eggnog in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and give it a good shake before serving to restore its creamy texture.

Festive Eggnog Recipe

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4.8 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Classic homemade eggnog from traditional family recipes delights holiday gatherings with rich, creamy goodness. Warm spices and smooth rum create festive cheer you’ll savor with each delightful sip.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 large egg yolks
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ¼ tsp (teaspoon) vanilla extract
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 pinch salt
• Ground cinnamon (for topping)
• Alcohol (optional)

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Instructions

1. Whisk Preparation: Vigorously blend granulated sugar and egg whites in a medium bowl until achieving a light, frothy consistency with a pale hue.
2. Dairy Infusion: In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, ground nutmeg, and salt, heating over medium-high flame while stirring consistently to prevent burning and promote uniform temperature distribution.
3. Tempering Process: Gradually introduce heated milk mixture into egg blend, whisking meticulously to prevent curdling and create a seamless, integrated liquid foundation.
4. Custard Development: Return the tempered mixture to the saucepan, maintaining gentle heat and continuous whisking until reaching 160°F, ensuring egg safety and achieving a slightly thickened custard texture.
5. Flavor Enhancement: Remove from heat and incorporate pure vanilla extract and optional rum or bourbon, stirring thoroughly to distribute aromatic elements evenly throughout the mixture.
6. Refinement Stage: Strain the eggnog through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container, eliminating potential egg solids and guaranteeing a velvety, smooth consistency.
7. Chilling and Maturation: Refrigerate the strained mixture for several hours, allowing the flavors to meld and develop a rich, harmonious profile.
8. Serving Presentation: Before serving, optionally garnish with freshly grated nutmeg, a dollop of whipped cream, or a cinnamon stick to elevate the sensory experience.
9. Storage Protocol: Preserve the eggnog in a sealed container within the refrigerator, consuming within 5-7 days to maintain optimal taste and quality.

Notes

• Prevent Curdling: Carefully temper eggs by adding hot milk slowly while whisking continuously to avoid scrambled egg chunks in your eggnog.
• Temperature Safety: Heat mixture to exactly 160°F to eliminate harmful bacteria in raw eggs, ensuring a safe and delicious holiday drink.
• Strain for Smoothness: Always use a fine-mesh strainer to remove any potential egg solids, creating an ultra-silky, professional-quality eggnog texture.
• Flavor Development: Refrigerate for several hours before serving, allowing ingredients to meld and intensify the rich, creamy flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Drinks, Desserts
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 30 g
• Sodium: 50 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 17 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 250 mg