Is Homemade Eggnog Safe to Drink with Raw Eggs?

Yes — when properly tempered , the eggs in this recipe are brought to a safe temperature (165°F), reducing the risk of any bacteria. You can also use pasteurized eggs for extra peace of mind. The tempering process gently heats the egg yolks without scrambling them, ensuring a smooth, creamy consistency.

Can I Make This Creamy Homemade Eggnog Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! In fact, egg nog tastes even better after resting in the fridge for 24 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to develop and the texture to thicken. You can store homemade eggnog in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight glass pitcher or bottle.

What Alcohol Goes Best with Homemade Eggnog?

Classic choices include rum , bourbon , or brandy . Each adds its own depth: Rum brings a sweet, smooth finish. Bourbon adds warmth and spice. Brandy offers a fruitier, robust note. Feel free to mix and match based on your preference — or serve it without alcohol for a family-friendly treat.

Creamy Homemade Eggnog – Best Holiday Drink Recipe

Name: Creamy Homemade Eggnog
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 large egg yolks: Creates the rich, custardy base and thickens the eggnog.; 1/4 cup white sugar: Adds sweetness and balances the richness.; 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: Enhances flavor with subtle caramel notes.; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Provides a warm, aromatic flavor.; 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Makes the eggnog ultra creamy.; 3 cups 2% milk: Lightens the texture slightly while maintaining richness.; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a warm, spiced holiday aroma.; Optional – 1/2 cup rum, bourbon, or brandy: For a spiked, adult version.; Optional – whipped heavy cream, cinnamon, and cinnamon sticks: For garnish and extra indulgence.

Description

Creamy Homemade Eggnog is the ultimate festive drink, made with egg yolks, milk, cream, sugar, maple syrup, vanilla, and nutmeg. This holiday classic is rich, smooth, and perfect for serving with or without alcohol.

Ingredients

Scale

8 large egg yolks: Creates the rich, custardy base and thickens the eggnog.
1/4 cup white sugar: Adds sweetness and balances the richness.
1/4 cup pure maple syrup: Enhances flavor with subtle caramel notes.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Provides a warm, aromatic flavor.
1 cup heavy whipping cream: Makes the eggnog ultra creamy.
3 cups 2% milk: Lightens the texture slightly while maintaining richness.
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a warm, spiced holiday aroma.
Optional – 1/2 cup rum, bourbon, or brandy: For a spiked, adult version.
Optional – whipped heavy cream, cinnamon, and cinnamon sticks: For garnish and extra indulgence.

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Instructions

Separate the egg yolks from the whites and place the yolks in a large mixing bowl.
Add the white sugar to the yolks and whisk until the mixture is light and creamy.
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and nutmeg.
Heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches about 165°F (do not boil), stirring often.
Temper the eggs by slowly drizzling the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly.
Once half the hot liquid is added, pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture.
Continue cooking over medium heat until the entire mixture reaches 165°F, then remove from heat.
Pour the eggnog into a glass pitcher and let it cool to room temperature.
Refrigerate for several hours or overnight until chilled and thickened.
Before serving, stir the eggnog, pour into glasses, and garnish with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and cinnamon sticks. Add alcohol if desired.

Notes

Tempering the eggs is crucial to avoid curdling and ensure a smooth texture.
Use a thermometer to accurately heat the mixture to a safe temperature.
Chill the eggnog well before serving for the best flavor and consistency.
Use fresh-grated nutmeg for a stronger, fresher aroma.
The eggnog will thicken more after chilling.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Drinks
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 3/4 cup
Calories: 257 kcal
Sugar: 17 g
Sodium: 62 mg
Fat: 17 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 19 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 6 g
Cholesterol: 232 mg