A rich and creamy traditional eggnog recipe, perfect for the holiday season. This homemade version offers superior flavor compared to store-bought options.
Author:Claire
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:10 min
Total Time:2 hr 30 min
Yield:8 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:No-Cook (or Cooked Option)
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
6 large eggs, separated
1 cup granulated sugar, divided
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups dark rum (or bourbon)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Freshly grated nutmeg, for serving
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and 3/4 cup of the granulated sugar until pale and thick.
Gradually whisk in the whole milk, heavy cream, rum, and vanilla extract until well combined.
In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites with the salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar and continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture until just combined.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
Before serving, whisk the eggnog to ensure it is smooth. Ladle into glasses and sprinkle generously with freshly grated nutmeg.
Notes
For a safer, cooked version, temper the egg yolks by slowly whisking in a small amount of warm milk mixture before combining it all in the saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Do not boil.
This recipe can be made ahead of time. The flavors deepen and improve with refrigeration.
Adjust the amount of rum to your preference.
For a non-alcoholic version, omit the rum and consider adding an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon.