Nothing says the holiday season quite like a glass of creamy, homemade eggnog. This Classic Homemade Eggnog recipe is rich, flavorful, and perfect for sipping by the fire or serving at your next holiday gathering. You can whip up a batch of this festive favorite with just a few simple ingredients in no time.
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Why You’ll Love This Homemade Eggnog
- Rich and Creamy: Made with whole milk and heavy cream for the perfect texture.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples for an easy, homemade treat.
- Versatile: Enjoy it plain or spike it with your favorite spirits.
Ingredients Overview
- 4 egg yolks (from pasteurized eggs)
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly grated nutmeg
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Egg Yolks
- Mix the Yolks: In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the egg yolks on medium speed until they are well combined and slightly frothy.
- Add the Sugar: Slowly add the sugar to the egg yolks, continuing to mix until the mixture is smooth and light yellow. Cleaning the bowl’s sides is recommended.
Combining the Ingredients
- Add Dairy and Flavorings: Turn the mixer to low speed and add in the milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and freshly grated nutmeg. Mix until everything is well combined.
Chilling and Serving
- Chill: Transfer the mixture to a pitcher or container and refrigerate until well chilled, at least 2 hours.
- Serve: Pour into glasses and enjoy. For the best flavor, garnish with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg.
Tips for the Best Eggnog
- Fresh Nutmeg: For the best flavor, use a whole nutmeg, freshly grated on a microplane.
- Chill Thoroughly: Ensure the eggnog is well chilled before serving for the best taste and texture.
- Smooth Texture: You can strain the eggnog through a fine-mesh sieve before chilling for a smoother texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish: Sprinkle a little extra freshly grated nutmeg or cinnamon on top.
- With Alcohol: Add a rum, bourbon, or brandy for a festive adult version.
- Accompaniments: Serve with holiday cookies or pastries for a delightful treat.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Spiced Eggnog: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon, cloves, or allspice for a spicier flavor.
- Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the milk and cream with almond milk, coconut milk, or another dairy-free alternative.
- Extra Rich: Increase the heavy cream to 1 1/2 cups for even more decadent eggnog, and reduce the milk to 1 1/2 cups.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it Safe to Use Raw Eggs?
Using pasteurized eggs lowers the chance of getting sick from food. Eggs that have been pasteurized are heated to a level that kills bacteria without cooking the egg.
Can I Use a Different Milk?
You can substitute whole milk with 2%, almond milk, or any other milk you prefer. However, the texture may vary slightly.
How Long Does Eggnog Last?
Homemade eggnog will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it in a container that won’t let air in.
Can I Add Alcohol?
Absolutely! Rum, bourbon, or brandy are popular choices to spike your eggnog. Add it to taste after the eggnog is chilled.
Can I Make It Dairy-Free?
You can make this recipe dairy-free by using plant-based milk and cream substitutes. Choose from cashew milk, coconut milk, or almond milk.
Conclusion
This Classic Homemade Eggnog recipe is a timeless holiday treat that will bring joy to your festivities. Whether enjoying it by the fireplace or serving it at a holiday party, its rich, creamy texture, and warm spices will make it a favorite. Happy holidays, and have a wonderful season!
Enjoy making and sipping on this delightful eggnog, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family!