Description
Creamy homemade eggnog delights winter gatherings with rich, nostalgic flavors from classic American holiday traditions. Smooth bourbon and fresh nutmeg create a luxurious drink that warms hearts and brings festive cheer to all who sip this beloved seasonal classic.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 6 large egg yolks
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 2 cups (480 ml/16.2 fluid ounces) whole milk
- 1 cup (240 ml/8.1 fluid ounces) heavy cream
Spices and Flavor Enhancers:
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Alcoholic Component:
- ½ cup (120 ml/4 fluid ounces) bourbon, rum, or brandy
Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Ground nutmeg
- Cinnamon sticks
Instructions
- Craft a silky foundation by vigorously blending egg yolks with sugar until the mixture transforms into a pale, luxurious cream with a ribbony texture.
- Create a fragrant dairy base by gently warming milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, and cinnamon in a saucepan, allowing the spices to infuse without reaching a boil.
- Execute a delicate temperature merger by gradually introducing hot dairy into the egg mixture, whisking meticulously to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth integration.
- Transform the liquid into a velvety custard by returning the combined mixture to the saucepan, stirring constantly while monitoring the temperature until it reaches a gentle thickening point.
- Elevate the flavor profile by incorporating vanilla extract and optional spirits like bourbon, rum, or brandy, stirring to distribute the aromatic elements evenly.
- Achieve optimal refreshment by transferring the eggnog to a chilled container and allowing it to rest in the refrigerator, developing depth and complexity.
- Present the final creation adorned with a cloud of whipped cream and a delicate dusting of nutmeg, inviting guests to indulge in this classic seasonal libation.
Notes
- Tempering technique ensures smooth, silky eggnog without scrambling eggs, requiring slow and steady addition of hot milk while whisking vigorously.
- Use fresh, high-quality eggs from trusted sources to minimize potential salmonella risks, especially when consuming slightly raw egg mixture.
- Experiment with alternative milk options like almond, oat, or coconut milk for dairy-free versions, adjusting sweetness and consistency as needed.
- Control alcohol intensity by gradually adding bourbon, rum, or brandy, allowing personal preference for strength and flavor profile to guide your creation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Drinks, Cocktails
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 233
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg