Best Homemade Eggnog Recipe (2024)

By Laura

Posted Dec 03, 2021, Updated Feb 20, 2024

5 from 9 votes

4 Comments

Jump to Recipe

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.

This homemade eggnog recipe is the best eggnog you will ever taste. It’s thick and creamy with hints of nutmeg, cinnamon and vanilla. It’s easy to make and so delicious that you’ll never settle for store-bought again!

Best Homemade Eggnog Recipe (2)

Every year as the weather changes and the holidays draw near, the first holiday treat that my family asks for is eggnog.

Eggnog is a must-have to enjoy while we decorate our Christmas tree (along with homemade hot chocolate, and peppermint hot chocolate)!

However, I usually don’t prefer to buy store-bought eggnog because of the ingredient list. So I created this homemade eggnog recipe. It’s thick and creamy with hints of nutmeg, cinnamon and vanilla. Plus, it’s easy to make with a handful of ingredients.

Making homemade eggnog ensures you can use organic ingredients and emulsifiers, preservatives and artificial flavors.

Best Homemade Eggnog Recipe (3)

Eggnog Recipe: Ingredients & Substitutions

  • Granulated sugar. white sugar or organic cane sugar are the best choices.
  • Heavy cream/whole milk. This eggnog recipe calls for 3 cups of liquid dairy. I make it with 2 cups heavy cream and 1 cup whole milk. You can change the ratio (e.g. 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup cream), or use lower-fat products like half and half or 2% milk but you do so at the risk of a less-creamy final product.
  • Ground Nutmeg. You can substitute an equal amount of freshly ground nutmeg if you prefer. I use store-bought organic nutmeg with the best results.
  • Sea salt. A pinch of sea salt really makes this recipe extra delicious. You can omit it, if you prefer.
  • Pure vanilla extract. Vanilla bean paste or the seeds of one vanilla bean are good substitutes.
Best Homemade Eggnog Recipe (4)

How to Make Eggnog

This homemade eggnog recipe comes together in 10 minutes and is fairly simple to make. We’ll walk through how to make eggnog step-by-step and don’t forget to watch the video!

To begin, beat the eggs and sugar together with a handheld mixer (or vigorously with a whisk by hand), until, thick and light (about 1 minute).

The mixture will thicken as you set it aside and continue making the rest of the recipe.

Best Homemade Eggnog Recipe (5)

Next, heat the whole milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sea salt in a medium saucepan until the mixture is warm and just barely begins to bubble around the edges, whisking constantly.

Best Homemade Eggnog Recipe (6)

Once the mixture is warm, temper the eggs by slowly adding the warm milk to the beaten eggs as you whisk vigorously.

Note: the egg mixture will be thick upon the first addition of milk. As you whisk in more milk it will thin out.

Best Homemade Eggnog Recipe (7)

Next, pour the tempered egg/milk mixture back into the saucepan and cook until it starts to thicken but does not boil (160 degrees F on an instant read thermometer), whisking often. (it will lightly coat the back of a spatula).

Best Homemade Eggnog Recipe (8)

Then, place the heavy cream into a bowl with a fine mesh strainer on top of the bowl.

Best Homemade Eggnog Recipe (9)

Strain the egg mixture into the heavy cream. Discard the residue that is left on the strainer.

Then, stir in the vanilla extract until it’s just incorporated.

Best Homemade Eggnog Recipe (10)

Chill the Eggnog

Next, transfer the homemade eggnog to a glass jar with a lid (a large, 1 quart jar) or put it in a glass container with a lid to chill for at least 4 hours.

Best Homemade Eggnog Recipe (11)

Serve

This eggnog recipe is best served cold with some homemade whipped cream and an extra sprinkle of nutmeg.

Best Homemade Eggnog Recipe (12)

How to Store Eggnog

Store leftover eggnog in a glass jar with a lid in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freeze

If you’d like, you can freeze this eggnog recipe in ice cube trays and use it to make some delicious eggnog iced coffee! Yum! Or you can freeze it in larger portions in a silicone storage container. Reheat slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Best Homemade Eggnog Recipe (13)

Homemade Eggnog Recipe FAQs

Does egg nog have raw eggs?

In this eggnog recipe the eggs are tempered and then cooked to 160 degrees F with the milk so they are not raw and are safe to drink.

What alcohol goes best with eggnog?

Typically the types of alcohol associated with eggnog are brandy, rum and bourbon.

What is the first ingredient in eggnog?

The main ingredients in eggnog are heavy cream, whole milk and egg yolks.

How long does homemade eggnog last?

This recipe lasts for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Best Homemade Eggnog Recipe (14)

If you make and love our recipes, it would mean so much to me if you would leave a comment and rating! And don’t forget to follow along with us on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, and Youtube – be sure to tag @joyfoodsunshine and use the hashtag #joyfoodsunshine so we can your creations!

Best Homemade Eggnog Recipe (15)

Best Homemade Eggnog Recipe (16)

SavePinPrint

Homemade Eggnog Recipe

Laura

This homemade eggnog recipe is truly the best eggnog you will ever taste. It's thick and creamy with hints of nutmeg, cinnamon and vanilla. It's easy to make and so delicious that you'll never settle for store-bought again!

5 from 9 votes

Course Dessert, Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 8 Servings

Calories 336

Prep Time15 minutes minutes

Cook Time10 minutes minutes

Chilling4 hours hours

Total Time4 hours hours 25 minutes minutes

Ingredients

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, beat eggs and sugar together with a handheld mixer (or vigorously with a whisk by hand), until, thick, light and fluffy (about 1 minute).

  • Heat milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sea salt in a medium saucepan until warm, whisking constantly.

  • Temper the eggs by slowly adding warm milk to the beaten eggs as you whisk vigorously.

  • Pour the tempered egg/milk mixture back into the saucepan and cook until it starts to thicken but does not boil (160 degrees F), whisking often. (it will lightly coat the back of a spatula).

  • Place the heavy cream into a bowl with a fine mesh strainer on top of the bowl.

  • Strain the egg mixture into the heavy cream. Discard what is left on the strainer.

  • Add vanilla extract, stir to combine.

  • Chill for 4 hours.

  • Serve cold with some homemade whipped cream and an extra sprinkle of nutmeg.

Video

Notes

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Granulated sugar. white sugar or organic cane sugar are the best choices.
  • Heavy cream/whole milk. This eggnog recipe calls for 3 cups of liquid dairy. I make it with 2 cups heavy cream and 1 cup whole milk. You can change the ratio (e.g. 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup cream), or use lower-fat products like half and half or 2% milk but you do so at the risk of a less-creamy final product.
  • Ground Nutmeg. You can substitute an equal amount of freshly ground nutmeg if you prefer. I use store-bought organic nutmeg with the best results.
  • Sea salt. A pinch of sea salt really makes this recipe extra delicious. You can omit it, if you prefer.

Serve

This eggnog recipe is best served cold with some homemade whipped cream and an extra sprinkle of nutmeg.

Store

Store leftover eggnog in a glass jar with a lid in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freeze

If you’d like, you can freeze this eggnog recipe in ice cube trays and use it to make some delicious eggnog iced coffee! Yum! Or you can freeze it in larger portions in a silicone storage container. Reheat slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutrition

Serving: 0.5Cup | Calories: 336kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 27g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 231mg | Sodium: 79mg | Potassium: 103mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 19g | Vitamin A: 1119IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 93mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Did you enjoy this recipe? Have a question? Leave a comment below!

Try these recipes

Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe (Hot Cocoa)

Best Christmas Cookie Recipes

Crock Pot Hot Chocolate

Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Homemade Apple Cider Recipe

Snowball Cookies

Best Homemade Eggnog Recipe (2024)

FAQs

What is the very best alcohol to put 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.

How do you make eggnog taste better? ›

Bonus Additions for Store-Bought Eggnog
  1. nutmeg.
  2. cloves.
  3. cinnamon.
  4. pumpkin pie spice.
  5. apple pie spice.
  6. pure vanilla extract.
  7. almond extract.
  8. coffee.
Apr 3, 2022

How long should you keep homemade eggnog? ›

Eggnog with 1/2 to 1 cup liquor: Refrigerate for several days. Eggnog with 1 1/2 cups liquor: Refrigerate for several weeks in a sealed glass container or mason jar, where it will continue aging and thicken up quite nicely.

Is homemade eggnog better? ›

Making your own eggnog will spare you the additives found in store-bought varieties but a traditional recipe will be similar in calories and fat. You can lighten things up using low fat dairy products and going light on the sugar.

What's the best whiskey to put in eggnog? ›

Made with eggs, sugar, spices, and of course, whiskey, this rich and creamy beverage is sure to get you in the holiday spirit. To make Wigle's spiked eggnog, we recommend using a good quality whiskey like Yule Tidings but other whiskeys will be equally delicious. Wigle PA Bourbon eggnog is also highly recommended!

What kind of alcohol is Southern Comfort? ›

Southern Comfort (often abbreviated SoCo) is an American, naturally fruit-flavored, whiskey liqueur with fruit and spice accents. The brand was created by bartender Martin Wilkes Heron in New Orleans in 1874, using whiskey as the base spirit.

Why you should be careful with that eggnog? ›

Eggnog is not for the faint-hearted when it comes to sugar content. The sugar in this creamy elixir can be a feast for harmful bacteria in your mouth. It eventually leads to the formation of plaque. As the sugar-loving bacteria multiply, they produce acid that can erode your tooth enamel, paving the way for cavities.

Why does store bought eggnog taste different? ›

There are a couple of reasons that store-bought 'nog will never taste as good as home made. First off, homemade eggnog gets its thickness and flavor from real eggs, but compared to other ingredients in commercial eggnog, eggs are expensive.

Why is my homemade eggnog so thick? ›

It will thicken as it cools. If you want a thinner, completely smooth consistency, you can add the entire mixture to a blender with 1 or 2 tablespoons of milk and blend until smooth. Serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and fresh whipped cream, if desired. Store homemade eggnog in the fridge for up to one week.

Does eggnog get better with age? ›

The unanimous verdict: Alongside a fresh batch, which tasted comparatively boozy and harsh, our aged nog went down more smoothly. To age your favorite eggnog recipe, be sure to use 1 1/2 ounces of 80 proof liquor for every egg, and leave out the dairy until serving.

Does alcohol cook eggs in eggnog? ›

No. According to the University of Minnesota Extension, "eggs must be cooked to 160 degrees F to kill Salmonella that may be present. Adding alcohol inhibits bacterial growth, but it cannot be relied upon to kill it completely." However, if you use pasteurized eggs, no further cooking is necessary.

How to tell if eggnog is spoiled? ›

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 used in eggnog? ›

Eggnog is typically made with rum, brandy or bourbon, and Brown likes to start with a combination of dark rum and cognac. But there's no need to go premium; he recommends using an affordable, high-proof VS cognac. The higher alcohol level will cut through the sweetness of the rest of the ingredients.

Is it OK to drink eggnog everyday? ›

Eggnog may not be considered a "health food," but the drink does have some nutritional benefits including certain vitamins and protein. Traditional eggnog is also high in sugar and fat, and for that reason, it's best to drink in moderation as a dessert.

What is the difference between classic and old fashioned eggnog? ›

The difference between the two varieties is that “old fashioned” eggnog is creamier and more strongly spiced than “classic,” Darigold spokesperson Erin Byrne said. “Classic” eggnog has 6% butterfat and is spiced with nutmeg, whereas “old fashioned” eggnog has 7% butterfat and is spiced with nutmeg, cinnamon and ginger.

Does eggnog taste better with alcohol? ›

The amount of alcohol put in eggnog has no written rule, but it tastes best with 1 part spirit for every 5 parts eggnog. The alcohol takes away the rich and sweet taste of the eggnog, so if you're looking for a more bitter drink you can add extra alcohol.

Is Crown Royal good in eggnog? ›

Egg-cellent Eggnog Tips

Rum – I like dark rum in eggnog (Myers's is what I usually buy), but spiced rum would also be fabulous. Whiskey – I typically use Crown Royal, but use what you like or keep on hand.

Is vodka and eggnog good? ›

The eggnog white russian co*cktail is perfect for the holiday season! Coffee liqueur mixed with vanilla vodka and eggnog and topped with freshly grated nutmeg is the perfect treat and oh-so festive!

What alcohol is in White Claw? ›

“The alcohol in White Claw Hard Seltzer comes from fermented sugars derived from malted gluten-free grains.” Further confusing matters over whether there is vodka in White Claw is the fact the brand now produces a line of distilled spirits, including a handful of flavored expressions.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Barbera Armstrong

Last Updated:

Views: 5647

Rating: 4.9 / 5 (59 voted)

Reviews: 82% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Barbera Armstrong

Birthday: 1992-09-12

Address: Suite 993 99852 Daugherty Causeway, Ritchiehaven, VT 49630

Phone: +5026838435397

Job: National Engineer

Hobby: Listening to music, Board games, Photography, Ice skating, LARPing, Kite flying, Rugby

Introduction: My name is Barbera Armstrong, I am a lovely, delightful, cooperative, funny, enchanting, vivacious, tender person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.