Creamy Eggnog with Nutmeg and Vanilla

Introduction

Eggnog is one of those drinks that instantly brings the holiday season to life. With its smooth, creamy texture, delicate sweetness, and warm notes of vanilla and nutmeg, it has been a classic Christmas favorite for centuries. Traditionally served during Christmas and New Year celebrations, this festive beverage is a blend of milk, cream, eggs, sugar, and warming spices—sometimes enhanced with a splash of rum, bourbon, or brandy for a grown-up twist.

The addition of freshly grated nutmeg and real vanilla makes this eggnog not only rich and luxurious but also irresistibly fragrant. It’s like sipping on Christmas in a cup!

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures everything magical about the holiday season in one creamy, comforting drink. Unlike store-bought versions, which can sometimes feel overly heavy or too sweet, this homemade eggnog is perfectly balanced—it’s smooth, rich, and delicately spiced with just the right touch of nutmeg and vanilla.

There’s something truly special about the process of making eggnog from scratch: whisking the eggs, gently heating the milk and cream, and watching it all come together into a silky custard-like drink. It feels like a holiday ritual in itself. The aroma of warm spices fills the kitchen, instantly making the house feel festive and cozy.

What I love most, though, is how versatile it is. You can serve it chilled for a refreshing treat, warm for a cozy evening by the fireplace, or spiked with a splash of bourbon or rum for a grown-up celebration.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Eggnog is not just a drink—it’s an experience of the season. Here’s why you should definitely try it:

1. Holiday Tradition: It’s a drink steeped in history and holiday cheer. Serving it instantly creates a festive atmosphere.
2. Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy texture and mild spice appeal to all ages (alcohol-free for kids, spiked version for adults).
3. Homemade Goodness: When you make it from scratch, you can control the sweetness, richness, and flavor to suit your taste.
4. Versatile Serving: Serve it chilled, warm, plain, or with a spirit—it adapts beautifully.
5. Rich but Comforting: It’s indulgent yet light enough to enjoy alongside holiday cookies or desserts.

Simply put, eggnog is a must-try because it captures the essence of Christmas in one creamy sip.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time (optional): 2–3 hours
• Total Time: 30 minutes (without chilling)
• Servings: 6–8 glasses
• Calories per serving: ~250 kcal (without alcohol)

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Beverage (Festive Drink / Dessert Drink)
• Cuisine: American / European (Holiday Tradition)

Ingredients

For the Eggnog:

• 4 large eggs, separated
• ½ cup granulated sugar (divided into ¼ + ¼)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (plus more for garnish)
• Pinch of salt

Optional (for adults):

• ½ cup bourbon, rum, or brandy (adjust to taste)

For Serving:

• Whipped cream (optional topping)
• Extra ground nutmeg or cinnamon stick for garnish

Cooking Directions

1. Whisk Egg Yolks & Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks with ¼ cup of sugar until pale, thick, and creamy.
2. Heat Milk & Cream: In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Heat gently until hot but not boiling.
3. Temper the Eggs: Slowly pour a little of the hot milk mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly to avoid scrambling. Gradually add more until combined.
4. Cook Custard Base: Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook on low heat, stirring constantly until slightly thickened (coats the back of a spoon). Do not boil. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla.
5. Beat Egg Whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites with the remaining ¼ cup sugar until soft peaks form.
6. Fold Together: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cooled custard base for a light and frothy texture.
7. Chill (Optional): Refrigerate for 2–3 hours if you prefer cold eggnog.
8. Add Alcohol (Optional): Stir in bourbon, rum, or brandy just before serving if desired.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Separate eggs into two bowls.
2. Whisk yolks with sugar until pale.
3. Heat milk, cream, cinnamon, and nutmeg until warm.
4. Slowly temper yolks with warm milk mixture.
5. Return mixture to heat, cook gently until thickened.
6. Stir in vanilla and set aside to cool.
7. Beat egg whites with sugar until fluffy.
8. Fold whites into custard base.
9. Chill for a few hours or serve warm.
10. Top with whipped cream and nutmeg before serving.

How to Serve This Recipe

• Serve in mugs or glasses with a cinnamon stick garnish.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
• Perfect alongside Christmas cookies, gingerbread, or fruitcake.
• Can be served warm by the fireplace or chilled in a festive punch bowl.

Recipe Tips

• Use freshly grated nutmeg for the best flavor.
• Temper the eggs slowly to avoid curdling.
• Adjust sweetness by adding more or less sugar.
• Chill overnight for even better flavor.

Variations

• Alcohol-Free Eggnog: Skip the alcohol entirely—perfect for kids.
• Spiked Eggnog: Add bourbon, rum, or brandy for adults.
• Vegan Eggnog: Use almond milk, coconut milk, and cashew cream; replace eggs with cornstarch for thickness.
• Flavored Eggnog: Add a hint of orange zest, maple syrup, or espresso for unique twists.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.
• Freezer: Not recommended, as eggnog separates when thawed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Fine grater (for fresh nutmeg)

Conclusion

“Creamy Eggnog with Nutmeg and Vanilla” is more than just a festive drink—it’s a holiday tradition in a glass. With its velvety richness, warming spices, and the nostalgic aroma of vanilla and nutmeg, it embodies everything we love about Christmas. Whether you enjoy it warm or chilled, spiked or family-friendly, this homemade eggnog will make your celebrations extra special.

So this holiday season, skip the store-bought carton and make your own—it’s simple, festive, and guaranteed to bring joy with every sip.

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Creamy Eggnog with Nutmeg and Vanilla

Author: admin Cuisine: American Courses: Desserts

Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 15 mins Total Time 30 mins

Calories: 250 kcal per serving

Description

Eggnog is one of those drinks that instantly brings the holiday season to life. With its smooth, creamy texture, delicate sweetness, and warm notes of vanilla and nutmeg, it has been a classic Christmas favorite for centuries.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

For the Eggnog:

• 4 large eggs, separated
• ½ cup granulated sugar (divided into ¼ + ¼)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (plus more for garnish)
• Pinch of salt

Optional (for adults):

• ½ cup bourbon, rum, or brandy (adjust to taste)

For Serving:

• Whipped cream (optional topping)
• Extra ground nutmeg or cinnamon stick for garnish

Instructions

1. Whisk Egg Yolks & Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks with ¼ cup of sugar until pale, thick, and creamy.
2. Heat Milk & Cream: In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Heat gently until hot but not boiling.
3. Temper the Eggs: Slowly pour a little of the hot milk mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly to avoid scrambling. Gradually add more until combined.
4. Cook Custard Base: Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook on low heat, stirring constantly until slightly thickened (coats the back of a spoon). Do not boil. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla.
5. Beat Egg Whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites with the remaining ¼ cup sugar until soft peaks form.
6. Fold Together: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cooled custard base for a light and frothy texture.
7. Chill (Optional): Refrigerate for 2–3 hours if you prefer cold eggnog.
8. Add Alcohol (Optional): Stir in bourbon, rum, or brandy just before serving if desired.

Keywords: Creamy Eggnog with Nutmeg and Vanilla