Homemade Eggnog Recipe

Eggnog is a rich, creamy beverage traditionally made with milk, sugar, and eggs, often combined with spices like nutmeg or cinnamon and flavored with liquor such as rum, brandy, or bourbon. The beverage has deep historical roots, tracing back to Europe, originating as a wintertime drink for the wealthy. It made its way to the American colonies in the 18th century. It became famous as a festive drink, especially around Christmas and New Year’s.

This classic drink is especially popular in North America and includes many different versions that often involve eggs and brandy (rum, cognac).

Fun fact: “eggnog” may have originated from the term “noggin”, a small wooden cup used to serve drinks in the past.

Homemade Eggnog Recipe

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Course Dessert

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Moderately Large Pot
• Small Container for Eggs
• Electric Beaters or Whisk
• Fine Mesh Sieve
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Ice Water Bath
• Jar for Storage

Ingredients

  

• 3 cups Whole Milk
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar
• 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp Ground Cloves
• 1 tbsp + 2 tsp Ginger Powder
• 1.5 tsp Ground Nutmeg
• 1/4 cup Rum Can replace with Brandy, or Cognac (60 ml)
• 6 Egg Yolks
• 1.5 cups Heavy Cream
• Vanilla Bean Pod or 2 tsp Vanilla Extract

Instructions

 

• Heat 3 cups of whole milk over medium heat in a moderately large pot until steamy but not boiling..
  3 cups Whole Milk
• In a small container, separate six egg yolks.
  6 Egg Yolks
• Use electric beaters or a whisk to whip the egg yolks lightly until they lighten in color.
• Gradually add 1 cup of granulated sugar to the egg yolks while continuously whipping.
  1 cup Granulated Sugar
• Add a spoon of hot milk to the beaten egg yolks while whisking to bring them up to temperature.
• Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the pot of hot milk.
• Stir the seeds from a vanilla bean pod or extract.
  Vanilla Bean Pod
• On low heat, cook the mixture for 10-15 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens.
• Pour the thickened mixture into a bowl through a fine mesh sieve.
• Whisk in the ground spices, rum/brandy/cognac, and heavy cream.
  1 tsp Ground Cinnamon, 1/4 tsp Ground Cloves, 1 tbsp + 2 tsp Ginger Powder, 1.5 tsp Ground Nutmeg, 1/4 cup Rum, 1.5 cups Heavy Cream
• Place the bowl in an ice-water bath and stir intermittently until cold. Transfer to a jar for storage.

Video

Notes

Pro Tips for Success:

• Freshly grind your nutmeg for a more aromatic and flavorful eggnog.
• To avoid curdling, use a thermometer to ensure the mixture doesn't exceed 175°F (79°C).
• If you're storing the eggnog, remember it will thicken further as it cools.

Calculate Nutrition:

(Per 8-ounce serving, approximate)

• Calories: 350
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 18g
• Sugar: 31g

Keyword Homemade Eggnog Recipe

What does egg nog taste like?

Eggnog has a unique, rich flavor profile that combines the creaminess of milk or cream, the sweetness of sugar, and the light, frothy texture of whipped eggs. It’s a sweet and savory drink, velvety smooth yet slightly thick in consistency. The traditional spices (primarily nutmeg, but sometimes cinnamon) add a warm, earthy note that complements the overall sweetness of the drink.

If you opt for alcoholic eggnog, the type of liquor used can also impact the flavor. Rum adds a sugary, slightly spicy kick; brandy contributes a fruity, woody note; and bourbon imparts a smoky, rich complexity. The alcohol also balances the sweetness and can give the eggnog a little heat in terms of temperature and spiciness.

Can kids drink eggnog?

Absolutely yes, kids can enjoy eggnog, but there are a few things to consider to make it appropriate and safe for them:

• Alcohol-Free:

Most importantly, the eggnog should be alcohol-free for children cause many traditional recipes to include alcohol

• Raw Eggs:

Traditional eggnog recipes often use raw eggs, which can pose a risk of salmonella infection. To mitigate this, you can use pasteurized eggs or cook the egg mixture over low heat until it thickens, effectively pasteurizing it yourself. Alternatively, many commercial eggnog options are made with pasteurized ingredients and are safe for children to drink.

• Sugar Content:

Eggnog is often high in sugar, so you should limit the quantity for kids or opt for a recipe with less sugar.

• Dairy:

If your child is lactose intolerant or has a milk allergy, dairy-free versions of eggnog are available, typically made with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.

• Spices:

Some kids are sensitive to spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Feel free to adjust the spice level according to your child’s preferences.

• Portion Size:

Due to its richness, a small serving is usually sufficient, especially for younger children.

Many families introduce a milder, kid-friendly version of eggnog as part of their holiday traditions, and it can be a fun way for children to participate in the festivities. Just make sure to tailor the recipe to their needs and preferences.

Session Kitchen

Founded by a group of passionate foodies and cocktail enthusiasts, We believe that the act of cooking a delicious meal and concocting the perfect drink isn’t just about satisfying hunger and thirst; it’s a form of self-expression and an avenue for nurturing your well-being from the inside out.