Homemade Eggnog
Homemade eggnog is one of those little comforts that makes the season feel special. With its creamy texture and gentle notes of nutmeg and vanilla, it brings a sense of warmth and comfort. Whether you serve it at a holiday party or enjoy a quiet glass on a cold evening, it’s a recipe that belongs in every winter tradition.
Eggnog has a way of instantly taking me back when this season hits. Just one sip and I’m standing in a warm kitchen while the cold presses against the windows, the house filled with the quiet hum of the holidays. It’s the kind of drink that only shows up once a year, which somehow makes it feel even more special.
A SIMPLE HOLIDAY COMFORT
I remember eggnog as a slow, comforting ritual, not something rushed or poured straight from a store bought carton. Milk gently warming on the stove, the scent of vanilla and nutmeg in the air, the sound of mixture running through a strainer, and the quiet anticipation of that first creamy sip. It always felt like the moment when the season truly began.
Making eggnog from scratch brings all of that back. The whisking, the careful stirring, the straining, the patience it requires – it’s cozy in the best way. This isn’t a drink you throw together quickly; it’s one you make when you want to slow down and lean into the season. A reminder that the season isn’t about doing more, it’s about savoring simple moments.
HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE EGGNOG
This classic drink is made with simple ingredients like milk, cream, eggs, sugar, and warm spices. The staples in your pantry this season.
You simply start by whisking the egg yolk and sugar together in a small bowl. Then, in a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine cream, milk, salt, and nutmeg and stir the mixture until it just reaches a simmer.
Next, temper the eggs. Slowly pour the hot mixture into the egg mixture and constantly stir until combined. Bring the entire mixture back to the saucepan over medium high heat. Continue cooking and whisking for just another minute or two until it barely thickens. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
Remove from the heat and add vanilla extract. Pour the eggnog mixture through a strainer into a container and refrigerate until chilled. A dash of ground nutmeg or cinnamon and whipped cream are the finishing touch that ties everything together, adding that extra holiday aroma. Once you try homemade eggnog, it’s hard to go back – it’s richer, fresher, and made exactly to your taste.
SPIKED EGGNOG
You can keep this recipe alcohol-free for the whole family or add a splash of rum, bourbon, or brandy for a traditional grown-up version.
If you make this Homemade Eggnog recipe, make sure to tag me on Instagram or tell me all about it in the comments section down below. I love to share your photos.
Happy holidays! 
More Holiday Drinks:
Homemade Eggnog
Ingredients
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup (25g) granulated sugar, or condensed milk or maple syrup
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A dash of ground cinnamon, for topping
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Alcohol, optional*
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until light and creamy.
- In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the heavy cream, milk, nutmeg and salt. Stir often until the mixture just reaches a simmer. Slowly carefully pour the hot milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly until just combined.
- Bring the entire mixture back to the saucepan over medium high heat. Continue cooking and whisking for just another minute or two until it slightly thickens, or when the mixture reaches 160-165°F(71-74°C) on an instant-read digital thermometer. The mixture will continue to thicken more as it cools.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla, and alcohol*, if using. Pour the eggnog through a fine mesh strainer into a container and cover with a lid or a plastic wrap. Refrigerate until chilled.
- Serve the eggnog with whipped cream and a dash of ground cinnamon or nutmeg, if desired. Store homemade eggnog in the fridge for up to one week.
