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Homemade Eggnog Recipe – Creamy & Easy in 15 Minutes

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This creamy, spiced eggnog comes together in just 15 minutes with simple ingredients. Perfect for cozy nights, holiday gatherings, or a quick treat, it features fresh nutmeg and a silky texture that will make you forget store-bought versions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large egg yolks, room temperature
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 whole nutmeg, freshly grated
  • 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
  • 1/4 cup dark rum or bourbon (optional)
  • Whipped cream, for topping
  • Extra fresh nutmeg, for grating on top
  • Cinnamon sticks, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat the milk and cream: In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream. Add the cinnamon stick if using. Warm over medium heat until steaming but not boiling (small bubbles around the edges), about 4-5 minutes. Do not let it boil.
  2. Whisk the egg yolks and sugar: While the milk heats, whisk together 4 large egg yolks and 1/3 cup sugar in a large bowl until pale yellow and slightly thick, about 2 minutes.
  3. Temper the eggs: Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly. Then pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking continuously.
  4. Cook until thick: Place the saucepan over low heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3-5 minutes. Do not let it simmer or boil. The mixture should reach about 160°F (71°C).
  5. Strain and cool: Remove from heat. Pour through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean pitcher or bowl. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and freshly grated nutmeg to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon).
  6. Add alcohol (optional): If using rum or bourbon, stir in 1/4 cup now.
  7. Chill and serve: Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Serve cold in mugs, topped with whipped cream and a generous grating of fresh nutmeg.

Notes

Temper the eggs slowly to avoid curdling. Fresh nutmeg is highly recommended for best flavor. The eggnog can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day. For a non-alcoholic version, skip the rum or bourbon and add an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Nutrition

Keywords: homemade eggnog, easy eggnog, creamy eggnog, holiday drink, eggnog recipe, 15 minute eggnog, fresh nutmeg eggnog

Find it online: https://freshforkful.com/homemade-eggnog-recipe-creamy-and-easy-in-15-minutes/