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Homemade creamy eggnog with a sprinkle of nutmeg served in a festive glass.

Easy Christmas Eggnog Homemade Creamy

A rich and creamy homemade eggnog that's perfect for the holidays, offering a warm cozy drink that can easily be made in advance.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert, Drink
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 large large egg yolks
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
  • 1 pinch salt
Optional Alcohol
  • 1/2 to 1 cup bourbon, rum, or brandy added at the end

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until it looks lighter and smooth, about 1 minute.
  2. In a saucepan, heat the milk, cream, nutmeg, cinnamon (if using), and salt over medium heat until hot and steamy, but not boiling.
  3. Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly.
  4. Pour the warmed egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking as you go.
  5. Cook on low to medium-low heat, whisking constantly, for about 5 to 8 minutes until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon without boiling.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  7. If desired, strain the mixture into a clean bowl or pitcher for extra smoothness.
  8. Cool it down, then cover and chill for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.
Serving
  1. Serve cold or gently warmed. Top with a pinch of nutmeg.
  2. If adding alcohol, stir it in after the mixture has cooled, or add it per glass.

Notes

For the best flavor, allow the eggnog to chill for several hours before serving. If it thickens too much in the fridge, whisk in a splash of milk before serving. You can also adjust the flavor with an extra splash of vanilla or nutmeg just before serving.