Homemade Eggnog
Let’s be honest, you either love eggnog or you don’t. There’s not much middle ground when it comes to this rich, creamy holiday drink. Some of us count down the days until we can get our hands on that first festive glass, while others… politely pass. But if you’ve only ever tried the store-bought kind, homemade eggnog might just change your mind. It’s velvety, fresh, full of warm spices, and nothing like the overly sweet, carton version you find on shelves.
Whether you’re an eggnog enthusiast or a skeptic willing to give it one more shot, making it from scratch is a holiday tradition worth trying at least once, and who knows? It might just win you over.
What Is Eggnog, Anyway?
Eggnog is one of those classic holiday treats that’s rich, creamy, and totally over-the-top, in the best way. Made with milk, cream, sugar, whipped eggs, and cozy spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, it’s basically dessert in a cup. Some folks drink it straight; others like it spiked with a splash of rum, bourbon, or brandy (hello, holiday cheer!).
And sure, you can grab a carton from the grocery store, but once you taste homemade eggnog, there’s no going back. It’s creamier, fresher, and way more delicious. Plus, you can tweak it to your liking, whether that means dialing up the spice or keeping it booze-free for the whole family.
Homemade Eggnog Recipe (Classic Cooked Version)
Here’s a safe, delicious recipe for homemade eggnog that’s gently cooked to reduce any food safety concerns, while still giving you that luxurious texture.
Ingredients:
- 6 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus more for garnish)
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 to 1 cup bourbon, rum, or brandy
Instructions:
- Whisk the egg yolks and sugar
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until smooth, thick, and pale yellow. - Heat the milk and cream
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, cream, nutmeg, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Stir often and heat until it’s steaming but not boiling (around 160°F / 71°C). - Temper the eggs
To avoid scrambling your eggs, slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Then gradually pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, still whisking. - Cook the mixture
Return the saucepan to the stove and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (around 170–175°F or 77–80°C). - Strain and cool
Remove from heat and pour the eggnog through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl or pitcher. This step ensures your eggnog is silky smooth. - Add flavor and chill
Stir in the vanilla extract (and alcohol if using). Let the eggnog cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. - Serve and enjoy!
Pour into mugs or glasses, sprinkle with a pinch of nutmeg, and serve chilled. For extra decadence, add whipped cream on top.
Tips for the Best Homemade Eggnog
Making eggnog isn’t hard, but here are a few tips to help it turn out perfectly:
1. Use high-quality eggs and dairy
The quality of your ingredients really makes a difference. Organic eggs and fresh cream create a richer, cleaner flavor.
2. Strain, strain, strain
No one wants a lumpy eggnog! Straining your mixture removes any curdled bits and keeps it ultra-smooth.
3. Cool it down
Eggnog tastes best when it’s had time to chill and the flavors have melded. Don’t skip the resting time in the fridge.
4. Make it ahead of time
Eggnog actually gets better with time (even without alcohol). If you’re planning a holiday party, make it the day before.
Is Raw Eggnog Safe?
You might be wondering: “Isn’t eggnog made with raw eggs?” Traditionally, yes. But our recipe cooks the eggs gently to reduce any risk of salmonella or foodborne illness.
If you still want to make a raw version, you can:
- Use pasteurized eggs
- Or use egg substitutes designed for no-bake recipes
Just make sure to keep everything cold and consume it within a couple of days.
Fun Variations to Try
Homemade eggnog is super versatile. Here are a few ideas to mix things up:
Spiked Eggnog
Add your favorite spirit. Traditionally, rum, bourbon, or brandy is used. Each adds a different flavor profile, rum gives sweetness, bourbon adds warmth, and brandy lends fruitiness.
Dairy-Free Eggnog
Swap the milk and cream for almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk. Use full-fat versions for the creamiest results. Bonus: You can make it vegan by using egg substitutes.
Coffee Eggnog
Add a shot of cold espresso or coffee to each glass for an eggnog latte vibe.
Chocolate Eggnog
Whisk in a couple tablespoons of cocoa powder during the milk heating step for a decadent twist.
If you’re ready to take your homemade eggnog up a notch for the grown-ups at your holiday gathering, turning it into a cocktail is the way to go. Rich, velvety, and with just the right kick, a homemade eggnog cocktail is like a hug in a glass with a splash of holiday cheer.
How to Make a Homemade Eggnog Cocktail
You can start with the classic cooked homemade eggnog recipe from above. Once chilled, simply spike each serving with your spirit of choice. Here’s a basic formula:
Per serving:
- 1/2 cup chilled homemade eggnog
- 1 to 1.5 oz alcohol (bourbon, dark rum, brandy, or spiced rum work best)
- Ice cubes (optional)
- Freshly grated nutmeg, for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, pour in the eggnog and your chosen spirit.
- Shake well (about 15 seconds) to chill and lightly froth the eggnog.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass, coupe, or over fresh ice in a rocks glass.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a cinnamon stick for that festive finish.
Best Alcohol for Eggnog
Each type of spirit brings its own personality to the drink:
- Bourbon – Rich, bold, and slightly sweet with vanilla undertones.
- Dark Rum – Smooth, molasses-forward, and traditionally used in old-fashioned eggnogs.
- Spiced Rum – Adds warmth and flavor without needing extra spices.
- Brandy – Fruity and refined, offering a mellow yet elegant finish.
- Amaretto – For a nutty, dessert-like twist.
Pro tip: Can’t decide? Try a mix of dark rum and cognac, many bartenders say this is the “secret blend” for perfect eggnog cocktails.
Eggnog Cocktail Variations
1. Nutty Nog
Add 1 oz amaretto and 1 oz bourbon for a cozy, almond-scented cocktail.
2. Peppermint Nog
Stir in 1 oz peppermint schnapps and garnish with a crushed candy cane rim.
3. Mocha Eggnog Cocktail
Add 1 oz coffee liqueur like Kahlúa for a coffee-shop-meets-holiday-party feel.
4. Chai Spiced Eggnog
Infuse your eggnog with chai tea concentrate before mixing in whiskey or rum for a warming twist.
Make It a Party Pitcher
Want to serve a crowd? Turn your homemade eggnog cocktail into a party pitcher!
In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine:
- 4 cups chilled homemade eggnog
- 1 to 1 ½ cups alcohol of choice
- A few dashes of ground cinnamon or nutmeg
- Optional: a splash of vanilla or maple syrup to round it out
Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Stir well and garnish individual servings with whipped cream, cinnamon sticks, or whole star anise.
How to Serve Your Homemade Eggnog
Eggnog is already festive, but you can make it extra special with a few fun serving ideas:
1. In clear glass mugs
Show off that creamy goodness! Top with a dusting of nutmeg or a cinnamon stick.
2. With whipped cream and sprinkles
Perfect for a kids’ holiday treat.
3. Garnish with a mini candy cane
Adds a peppermint twist and looks adorable!
4. Turn it into a dessert
Use your eggnog in custards, cakes, French toast, or even ice cream. Leftovers don’t have to go to waste.
A Brief History of Eggnog
Did you know eggnog dates back to 13th-century Britain? It began as a drink called “posset”, a hot milk drink curdled with ale or wine and spiced for flavor. Eventually, eggs and figs were added, and it became a beverage for the wealthy, due to the high cost of milk, eggs, and spices.
When eggnog made its way to America in the 1700s, rum (an affordable spirit at the time) replaced wine. It quickly became a festive favorite, especially around Christmas.
Today, eggnog is a symbol of holiday cheer and cozy traditions, something you can sip while trimming the tree, watching classic Christmas movies, or hosting a holiday brunch.
Store-bought eggnog may be convenient, but nothing beats the creamy, dreamy magic of the homemade kind. Once you try making it from scratch, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for anything less.
Whether you enjoy it spiced and spirited or sweet and simple, eggnog is a delicious reminder to slow down, savor the season, and maybe even start a new family tradition.
Happy holidays and happy sipping!
