Description
A rich, creamy holiday classic made from fresh eggs, milk, cream, and warm spices—perfect with or without alcohol.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 to 1 cup bourbon, rum, or brandy (optional)
Instructions
- Separate the egg yolks from the whites. In a mixing bowl, whisk the yolks with sugar until the mixture is pale and creamy.
- In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. Heat over medium heat until just steaming, not boiling.
- Slowly add the hot milk mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook gently over low heat until it thickens slightly and reaches about 160°F (70°C).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let the eggnog cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- (Optional) Whisk in bourbon, rum, or brandy to taste before chilling or just before serving.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Fold into the chilled eggnog for added frothiness, or skip this step for a smoother drink.
- Serve chilled with a sprinkle of nutmeg on top.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use almond or oat milk.
- Add espresso or coffee liqueur for a mocha variation.
- Include citrus zest for a bright, aromatic twist.
- Top with whipped cream and a cinnamon stick for extra festivity.
- Cooked version only enhances food safety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 180mg