My version of homemade eggnog is creamy, deliciously thick, and spiced with nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. Enjoy this drool-worthy and versatile holiday drink with or without booze. You’ll never buy store-bought eggnog again!
While this classic Christmas drink is typically served around the holidays, I don’t see why you can’t have it any time of year. It’s perfect solo or paired with Christmas cookies and other comforting baked treats!
Why Make Your Own Eggnog
Have you ever had eggnog from a carton? I remember very clearly the first time a friend offered me a glass. It took every ounce of self-control not to make faces. It was horrible; my auntie’s version was soooo different.
A holiday beverage popular in the colder parts of North America takes spiced eggs and milk, and warms it up with a shot of rum. Even though it’s usually served from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day, I love it all year long. Hot if it’s chilly outside, and chilled on a warm summer day.
How to Make Eggnog
- Whisk the egg yolks and sugar until well combined. (Photos 1-2)
- Heat the cream, whole milk, evaporated milk, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, and sea salt in a medium saucepan. Stir continuously until the mixture barely starts to bubble. (Photo 3)
- Temper the eggs with a generous amount of the hot milk mixture, stirring constantly while drizzling it in. Keep drizzling and stirring until all of the milk mixture has been stirred in. (Photo 4)
- Pour the eggnog back into the saucepan and continuously whisk until slightly thickened. Immediately remove from heat so it doesn’t clump.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, pour the eggnog into a pitcher, and garnish it with nutmeg and cinnamon sticks. Chill it until ready to serve. (Photos 5-6)
Notes and Tips
- Tempering eggs pasteurizes the eggs without losing the texture. If you don’t mind consuming raw eggs, feel free to skip this process.
- Dark rum, brandy, and bourbon are classics for spiking eggnog.
- Beat the egg yolks and sugar well until they form ribbons.
- If you want foamier eggnog, add the whites because they create froth.
- Adding the alcohol will help preserve it longer. In fact, some people let it age in the fridge for a week or longer before serving.
- Replace the creamer in your coffee with homemade eggnog and sigh gratefully.
Making Homemade Eggnog Ahead
Eggnog definitely needs time to chill, so make it the day before for the best flavor. It should last for at least a week in the fridge, even longer if you add the alcohol.
Eggnog used to be made with two parts eggnog and one part alcohol, then aged for weeks. The alcohol is antibacterial and preserves it just fine. So, if you want to keep it around for more than a week, spike it well.
More Satisfying Holiday Drinks You’ll Love
By Imma
Watch How to Make It
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This blog post was originally published in December 2021 and has been updated with additional tips, new photos, and a video.
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