Homemade Creamy Holiday Eggnog

Homemade Creamy Holiday Eggnog

Velvety, rich, and perfectly spiced, this Homemade Creamy Holiday Eggnog is a classic seasonal drink that brings warmth and festive cheer to any celebration. Made with fresh cream, eggs, vanilla, and holiday spices, this luxurious beverage is smooth, comforting, and deeply flavorful. Whether you serve it chilled, warm, or with a hint of rum or bourbon, this eggnog will feel like Christmas in a glass — cozy, nostalgic, and wonderfully creamy.

Introduction

Eggnog is more than just a holiday drink — it’s a tradition. The comforting blend of fresh cream, warm spices, sweet vanilla, and silky eggs creates a rich and velvety texture that’s both indulgent and soothing. Homemade eggnog tastes far better than store-bought versions, with its natural ingredients, thick creamy consistency, and customizable flavors. Beautifully bottled and tied with ribbon, it also makes a lovely edible gift for friends, family, and festive gatherings. Perfect for Christmas Eve, New Year’s celebrations, or cozy winter nights by the fire.

Ingredients

Base Custard:

• 6 large egg yolks

• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar

• 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk

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• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• Pinch of salt

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Optional Additions:

• ½ cup (120 ml) bourbon, rum, brandy, or whiskey (optional, for adults)

• Extra nutmeg or cinnamon for topping

• Whipped cream for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until light, creamy, and pale yellow. This step helps achieve a smooth custard base.

2. Heat the Milk and Cream
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, heavy cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally and heat until hot (but not boiling).

3. Temper the Eggs
Slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling. Gradually add more while whisking until combined.

4. Thicken the Mixture
Pour the tempered mixture back into the saucepan. Cook over low-medium heat, stirring constantly for about 5–6 minutes until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Do not boil.

5. Flavor and Strain
Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and optional alcohol. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to ensure a silky-smooth texture.

6. Chill and Store
Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer to glass bottles or jars and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor. It will thicken slightly as it chills.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve cold with a dollop of whipped cream

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• Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg on top before serving

• Serve warm for a cozy winter beverage

• Pair with holiday cookies or fruitcake

• Add a cinnamon stick or star anise for a festive touch

This eggnog also pairs beautifully with coffee or can be used as a creamy base for holiday lattes.

Storage

• Refrigerated, it stays fresh for 3–4 days without alcohol or up to one week if alcohol is added.

• Shake well before serving, as natural settling may occur.

• Always store in sterilized glass bottles or tightly sealed containers.

Conclusion

This Homemade Creamy Holiday Eggnog is more than just a festive drink — it’s a comforting tradition made from scratch with real, wholesome ingredients. Its velvety texture, warm spices, and rich flavor bring joy to every sip, making it a perfect treat for cozy nights, cheerful gatherings, or as a heartfelt holiday gift. Once you taste the homemade version, store-bought eggnog will never taste the same.