The Best Classic Eggnog Recipe (Easy Homemade Cooked Christmas Eggnog) (2024)

by Angela @ BakeItWithLove.com · 1 Comment

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Fabulously rich and creamy eggnog is a well-loved Christmas tradition and it's surprisingly easy to make the best homemade eggnog!! This cooked eggnog turns out delightfully creamy, flavorful, and just amazing! It's the perfect cup of holiday cheer to cozy up with on the couch while enjoying time with family and friends!

The Best Classic Eggnog Recipe (Easy Homemade Cooked Christmas Eggnog) (1)

Making eggnog is part of a wonderful family tradition during the holidays!

If you've never tried your hand at making your own eggnog for Christmas gatherings, you're in for a real treat! It's not a complicated recipe and you'll love the results!

This tasty eggnog is truly better than store-bought, and you can keep it simple and non-alcoholic or add a boozy kick before serving!

Jump to:
  • 🥘 Ingredients
  • 🔪 Instructions
  • 🎄 Other Great Christmas Recipes
  • 📖 Recipe Card
  • 💬 Reviews

🥘 Ingredients

Just a few ingredients, a mixing bowl, whisk, and saucepan and you're on your way to enjoying this comforting classic!

The Best Classic Eggnog Recipe (Easy Homemade Cooked Christmas Eggnog) (2)
  • 6 large Egg Yolks (At room temperature.)
  • ½ cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream
  • 2 cups Milk (Whole milk is best.)
  • ½ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (Freshly grated is best.)
  • 1 pinch Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (See my vanilla extract substitute page if needed.)
  • ¾ cup Brandy (Optional - use brandy, a dark rum and Cognac blend, or even bourbon.)
  • 1 pinch of Cinnamon (Optional, for serving.)

*Be sure to see the free printable recipe card below for ingredients, exact amounts & instructions with tips!*

🔪 Instructions

Take a few minutes before starting to let your eggs warm to room temperature (about 30 minutes) to make the mixture come together best. Or, place the eggs into a bowl of warm water for 5 minutes.

Combine Yolks & Heat Milk Mixture

  • The Best Classic Eggnog Recipe (Easy Homemade Cooked Christmas Eggnog) (3)
  • The Best Classic Eggnog Recipe (Easy Homemade Cooked Christmas Eggnog) (4)
  • The Best Classic Eggnog Recipe (Easy Homemade Cooked Christmas Eggnog) (5)
  • The Best Classic Eggnog Recipe (Easy Homemade Cooked Christmas Eggnog) (6)
  1. Whisk together. In a medium mixing bowl whisk together 6 egg yolks and ½ cup of sugar until creamy and lightened in color.
  2. Heat to a simmer. Bring a sauce pan with the 1 cup heavy whipping cream, 2 cups milk, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of salt to the beginning of a simmer over medium to medium-low heat. Remove from heat once the milk mixture just begins to bubble.

Temper Eggs, Heat & Chill

  • The Best Classic Eggnog Recipe (Easy Homemade Cooked Christmas Eggnog) (7)
  • The Best Classic Eggnog Recipe (Easy Homemade Cooked Christmas Eggnog) (8)
  • The Best Classic Eggnog Recipe (Easy Homemade Cooked Christmas Eggnog) (9)
  • The Best Classic Eggnog Recipe (Easy Homemade Cooked Christmas Eggnog) (10)
  1. Temper and thicken. Temper the egg mixture by slowly adding the warmed milk. Start with a ¼ cup at a time, adding more until all of the milk is incorporated. Return the mixture to your saucepan and heat, whisking constantly, over medium heat until the eggnog thickens. This step should only take a few minutes and the mixture should reach 170°F (77°C).
  2. Add vanilla and chill. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Transfer your eggnog into a pitcher and cover the top with plastic cling film. Refrigerate until chilled, about 2-3 hours. *The eggnog will continue to thicken as it chills.
  3. Add brandy (Optional). Once chilled, add your liquor and serve. If desired, for a super smooth eggnog, you can combine the eggnog and liquor in a blender.
  4. Garnish & serve. Serve with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, or a combination of whipped cream and a sprinkle of your favorite baking spice.

There are so many ways to enjoy your eggnog! Serve it as-is, with whipped cream, a scoop of ice cream (makes an eggnog float!), top it off with some ground cinnamon or grated nutmeg!

Add your eggnog to coffee, hot chocolate, chai tea, over your oatmeal, or mixed in with French toast coating! Enjoy!

💭 Tips & Notes

  • To rapidly chill your eggnog, place your pitcher or container into an ice bath.
  • Mix in milk after chilling, starting with a couple tablespoons, to make a non-alcoholic eggnog.
  • Other great liquor options include white rum + amaretto, rye whiskey + Jamaican rum, even Irish whiskey.
  • Store your eggnog in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
The Best Classic Eggnog Recipe (Easy Homemade Cooked Christmas Eggnog) (11)

🎄 Other Great Christmas Recipes

  • Christmas Cookies
  • Glazed Honey Ham
  • Prime Rib & Au Jus
  • Christmas Cake
  • Christmas Pudding

Do you love a recipe you tried? Please leave a 5-star🌟rating in the recipe card below and/or a review in the comments section further down the page.
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📖 Recipe Card

Eggnog (Best Homemade Classic Eggnog Recipe!)

Fabulously rich and creamy eggnog is a well-loved Christmas tradition and it's surprisingly easy to make the best homemade eggnog!! This cooked eggnog turns out delightfully creamy, flavorful, and just amazing! It's the perfect cup of holiday cheer to cozy up with on the couch while enjoying time with family and friends!

Author | Angela

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 287kcal

Prep 15 minutes minutes

Cooking 10 minutes minutes

Chilling Time 2 hours hours

Total Time 2 hours hours 25 minutes minutes

Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  • 6 large egg yolks (at room temperature)
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 cups milk (whole milk is best)
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (freshly grated is best)
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup brandy (optional - use brandy, a dark rum and Cognac blend, or even bourbon)

Help Us Out!If you love a recipe, be sure to come back and share your ratings. This helps future users, and allows me to continue sharing free recipes! Angela

Instructions

  • In a medium mixing bowl whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until creamy and lightened in color.

  • Bring a sauce pan with the heavy whipping cream, milk, nutmeg, and salt to the beginning of a simmer over medium to medium-low heat. Remove from heat once the milk mixture just begins to bubble.

  • Temper the egg mixture by slowly adding the warmed milk. Start with a ¼ cup at a time, adding more until all of the milk is incorporated. Return the mixture to your saucepan and heat, whisking constantly, over medium heat until the eggnog thickens. This step should only take a few minutes and the mixture should reach 170°F (77°C).

  • Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Transfer your eggnog into a pitcher and cover the top with plastic cling film. Refrigerate until chilled, about 2-3 hours. *The eggnog will continue to thicken as it chills.

  • Once chilled, add your liquor and serve. If desired, for a super smooth eggnog, you can combine the eggnog and liquor in a blender.

  • Serve with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, or a combination of whipped cream and a sprinkle of your favorite baking spice.

Notes

  • To rapidly chill your eggnog, place your pitcher or container into an ice bath.
  • Mix in milk after chilling, starting with a couple tablespoons, to make a non-alcoholic eggnog.
  • Other great liquor options include white rum + amaretto, rye whiskey + Jamaican rum, even Irish whiskey.
  • Store your eggnog in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Nutrition

Calories: 287kcal (14%) | Carbohydrates: 23g (8%) | Protein: 6g (12%) | Fat: 19g (29%) | Saturated Fat: 11g (69%) | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 240mg (80%) | Sodium: 64mg (3%) | Potassium: 178mg (5%) | Fiber: 1g (4%) | Sugar: 21g (23%) | Vitamin A: 995IU (20%) | Vitamin C: 1mg (1%) | Calcium: 148mg (15%) | Iron: 1mg (6%)

Did you try this recipe? Rate it below!I can’t wait to see your results! Mention @bake_it_with_love or tag #bake_it_with_love!

Classic Recipe, eggnog, Homemade

Course Drinks, Drinks (Alcohol based)

Cuisine American

The Best Classic Eggnog Recipe (Easy Homemade Cooked Christmas Eggnog) (13)

Angela @ BakeItWithLove.com

Angela is an at home chef that developed a passion for all things cooking and baking at a young age in her Grandma's kitchen. After many years in the food service industry, she now enjoys sharing all of her family favorite recipes and creating tasty dinner and amazing dessert recipes here at Bake It With Love!

bakeitwithlove.com/about/

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  1. Laurie says

    The Best Classic Eggnog Recipe (Easy Homemade Cooked Christmas Eggnog) (18)
    Made a double batch and it was excellent! First time making egg nog and this recipe will be a keeper for us. Didn’t have any problems with tempering the eggs, I just kept whisking them as I slowly added the milk mixture. Thank you so much for the recipe!!! We like it warm too. So cozy to sit and sip it warm. 😊

    Reply

The Best Classic Eggnog Recipe (Easy Homemade Cooked Christmas Eggnog) (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between cooked and uncooked eggnog? ›

So after the initial taste test with both batches freshly made, the cooked one tasted better, no doubt; it was richer, creamier, more custardy, and packed a lot more flavour than the raw one.

What's the difference between classic eggnog and old fashioned eggnog? ›

Old-Fashioned Eggnog

Usually, compared to classic eggnog, this version is stronger and creamier in taste and texture. Top it off with freshly grated nutmeg and cinnamon sticks.

Why do you cook eggnog? ›

Eggs must be cooked to 160 degrees F to kill bacteria such as Salmonella that may be present. If your eggnog recipe calls for raw eggs, it may not be safe. Adding alcohol inhibits bacterial growth, but it cannot be relied upon to kill bacteria.

Why is my homemade eggnog so thick? ›

The distinct flavors of egg, cream, and liquor meld together even after just a day or two in the fridge, making a smoother, more balanced cup of nog. The proteins in the eggs also start to thicken, giving eggnog its signature spoon-coating thickness.

Does cooked eggnog taste different? ›

Does Cooked Eggnog Taste The Same as Raw? Flavor-wise, I like both raw and cooked homemade eggnog. They're both delicious, but the cooked version has more of that delicious, custard-like flavor.

How long will cooked eggnog last? ›

The Food and Drug Administration suggests consuming commercial eggnog within three to five days of opening a carton, and you should drink homemade eggnog within two to four days of making. If you're unsure whether eggnog has gone off, give it a whiff, and check for these signs: lumpy texture. spoiled milk smell.

What alcohol is most commonly used in eggnog? ›

While brandy is the most traditional alcohol to pair with eggnog, according to traditional recipes, you can also use a mixture of dark rum and Cognac. If you like your eggnog with more of a kick you can also add bourbon, but we recommend sticking to rum and Cognac to preserve the 'nog's flavors.

What brand alcohol is best for eggnog? ›

Of course, this will be a matter of personal opinion, but the conclusion from this test is that brandy is the most suitable choice for eggnog. What Is Korbel California Brandy? Each of the three spirits has its own flavor profile and makes an excellent addition to the creamy, sweet, comforting taste of eggnog.

What was the original eggnog made of? ›

"While culinary historians debate its exact lineage, most agree eggnog originated from the early medieval" British drink called posset, which was made with hot milk that was curdled with wine or ale and flavored with spices.

What makes eggnog taste better? ›

Spiced Rum

Speaking of spice, this eggnog addition packs a punch. And one sip will be all the proof you need that rum isn't just for tiki drinks. With flavors like vanilla, cinnamon, and clove taking center stage and a full-bodied creamy texture, spiced rum is a natural BFF for eggnog.

Why does aged eggnog taste better? ›

The idea? Make a batch of eggnog and let it age for at least three weeks in the refrigerator before drinking. The rest period supposedly drives off eggy taste while giving the other flavors a chance to meld. At the same time, the alcohol has a chance to kill any potential pathogens in the mix.

Are there any benefits to drinking eggnog? ›

The high fat content of the drink can also help your body absorb these essential nutrients.” The dairy in eggnog can also add protein to your diet, as can the eggs—those also provide B vitamins as well as choline, a nutrient that supports brain health, said Cohn.

Why can't you drink a lot of eggnog? ›

Traditionally made with eggs, cream, milk, and sugar, no one would say that eggnog is a healthy drink. Even a small serving can pack significant amounts of calories, fat, saturated fat, and added sugars. And then there's the fact that homemade eggnog made with raw eggs can be a food-poisoning risk.

Can you overcook eggnog? ›

Undercooked eggnog will be thin and watery; overcooked custard will curdle. The difference is a matter of only a few degrees. For perfectly smooth eggnog: Pour through a sieve before chilling.

How to make eggnog better? ›

Spices and seasonings: You'll need cinnamon, cloves, vanilla extract, and nutmeg. Egg yolks: Egg yolks thicken the mixture, creating a decadent texture. Sugar: Of course, you'll need white sugar for this dessert-like beverage. Rum: Spike your eggnog with light rum or leave it as-is for a non-alcoholic treat.

Why does store bought eggnog taste different? ›

Made with the typical ingredients (minus the alcohol), you'll also find thickeners and stabilizers, artificial colors and flavors; some are also sweetened with high fructose corn syrup.

Is commercial eggnog cooked? ›

Store-bought eggnog still contains eggs, but most are already pasteurized, so even the sickliest Scrooge can likely have a sip.

What is eggnog made of raw eggs? ›

Traditional eggnog does indeed contain raw eggs. In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the egg yolks until they lighten in color. Gradually add the 1/3 cup sugar and continue to beat until it is completely dissolved. Add the milk, cream, bourbon and nutmeg and stir to combine.

Can you age cooked eggnog? ›

Yes, when the alcohol content is 20% of the egg and sugar mixture, it becomes sterile and can sit in cool storage on a shelf for up to a year. Usually, I use the egg base and make my eggnog before the three-week mark (you can make it up to a year in advance!).

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