Description
Creamy holiday “Grandma’s Classic Eggnog” whisks together nostalgic family flavors with rich, smooth dairy goodness. Seasonal spices and smooth bourbon create a comforting blend perfect for winter celebrations you’ll cherish.
Ingredients
Scale
Dairy and Egg Base:
- 6 large egg yolks
- 2 cups (480 milliliters) whole milk
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
- ¾ cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
Spices and Flavoring:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus more for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional Alcohol:
- ½ cup (120 milliliters) bourbon, rum, or brandy
Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Ground nutmeg or cinnamon sticks
Instructions
- Whisk egg yolks and sugar in a large mixing bowl until the mixture transforms into a smooth, pale yellow consistency, creating a silky base for the eggnog.
- Gently heat whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching and allow the spices to infuse.
- Create a delicate temperature bridge by slowly introducing approximately half a cup of warm milk mixture into the egg yolk blend, whisking vigorously to prevent curdling.
- Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, continuing to whisk while maintaining a steady medium-low heat until the liquid thickens to a luxurious, cream-like consistency.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, creating a smooth foundation for potential alcohol additions.
- Incorporate rum or bourbon into the cooled eggnog for those desiring an adult version, stirring to distribute the spirit evenly.
- Separately whip egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks emerge, transforming the mixture into a light, airy texture.
- Delicately fold the whipped egg whites into the cooled eggnog, creating a voluminous and smooth final product.
- Refrigerate the eggnog for a minimum of two to three hours, enabling the flavors to harmonize and develop a rich, complex profile.
- Serve the chilled eggnog in festive glasses, garnishing with an additional sprinkle of ground nutmeg or an elegant cinnamon stick for a traditional holiday presentation.
Notes
- Temper eggs carefully by slowly adding hot milk to prevent scrambling, ensuring a smooth, silky texture without unwanted egg chunks.
- Adjust alcohol content based on preference, using rum, bourbon, or brandy for traditional flavor, or omit entirely for a non-alcoholic version.
- Whip egg whites separately and fold gently to create a lighter, airier eggnog with beautiful volume and delicate consistency.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, allowing flavors to develop and intensify while maintaining food safety standards.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Drinks, Cocktails
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 to 8
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 21 g
- Sodium: 65 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 185 mg