Homemade Eggnog - A Beautiful Mess

While there is nothing wrong with store-bought eggnog, it might surprise you to know that homemade is VERY easy to make and in my opinion so much better. You can customize the sweetness level as well as make this creamy drink more or less spiced to your preferences.

I am a big fan of custard generally. And eggnog is essentially a spiced custard drink as it is made of mostly milk and egg yolks. It’s decadent and delicious and feels absolutely perfect for the holiday season.

Related: Need more festive drink recipes? Try Butterbeer, Pumpkin Smoothie, Turmeric Latte.

Ingredients

Egg yolks
Granulated white sugar
Heavy whipping cream
Milk
Vanilla extract
Cinnamon stick

Directions

In a small mixing bowl, store the egg yolks, separating them from the whites. Set aside.

In a medium sauce pan, add the sugar, cream, milk, nutmeg, vanilla extract and cinnamon stick. Whisk over low/medium heat until very warm and the sugar has fully dissolved.

Slowly add 1/2 cup of the warm milk to the egg yolks at a time, stirring between each addition. The goal is to slowly warm the egg yolks because if they go from cold to hot too quickly they can curdle.

Once the mixing bowl with the milk and yolks feels very warm to the touch (on the outside of the bowl), whisk the mixture back into the pan. Heat until the liquid reaches 160°F (71°C).

Strain to remove any sediments and the cinnamon stick. Store in the refrigerator.

Tips for Making

You can use an instant read thermometer or candy thermometer to check the liquid for reaching its food-safe temperature.
If the egg yolks do curdle a little, it’s OK! While not ideal, the eggnog is not ruined. Once you strain the mixture before chilling, this will remove any curdled pieces.
Feel free to add more nutmeg, cinnamon or other spices to this recipe! Pumpkin pie spice might be a nice addition.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is eggnog served hot or cold?

Eggnog is usually served chilled, unless added to a hot beverage like an eggnog latte.

Does eggnog contain alcohol?

Eggnog on its own does not contain alcohol. However, it’s very common for brandy, rum, or bourbon to be added to eggnog, so if you are at a party and unsure, ask the host.

Is eggnog still made from eggs?

Classic, homemade eggnog is made with egg yolks and many store-bought versions are made with pasteurized eggs as well. But you can find store-bought versions made without eggs.

How long does eggnog stay good in the refrigerator?

Homemade eggnog will keep in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 days after it’s made.

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Yield 4

Prep 5 minutes

Cook 3 minutes

Total 8 minutes

Instructions

In a small mixing bowl, store the egg yolks, separating them from the whites. Set aside.
In a medium sauce pan, add the sugar, cream, milk, nutmeg, vanilla extract and cinnamon stick.
Whisk over low/medium heat until very warm and the sugar has fully dissolved.
Slowly add 1/2 cup of the warm milk to the egg yolks at a time, stirring between each addition. The goal is to slowly warm the egg yolks because if they go from cold to hot too quickly they can curdle.
Once the mixing bowl with the milk and yolks feels very warm to the touch (on the outside of the bowl), whisk the mixture back into the pan.
Heat until the liquid reaches 160°F (71°C).
Strain to remove any sediments and the cinnamon stick. Store in the refrigerator.

Notes

You can use an instant read thermometer or candy thermometer to check the eggnog for reaching its food-safe temperature
If the egg yolks do curdle a little, it’s OK! While not ideal, the eggnog is not ruined. Once you strain the mixture before chilling, this will remove any curdled pieces.
Feel free to add more nutmeg, cinnamon or other spices to this recipe! Pumpkin pie spice might be a nice addition.
Homemade eggnog can be stored in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 days after it’s made.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts

Homemade Eggnog

Amount per Serving

% Daily Value*

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Notice: Nutrition is auto-calculated, using Spoonacular, for your convenience. Where relevant, we recommend using your own nutrition calculations.

Homemade Eggnog – A Beautiful Mess