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Creamy Homemade Eggnog Recipe

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4.2 from 75 reviews

This Homemade Eggnog recipe combines rich whole milk, warm spices like cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg, and creamy egg yolks sweetened with both granulated and dark brown sugar. Enhanced with half & half and pure vanilla extract, this festive drink is smooth, flavorful, and perfect for holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

Milk and Spices

  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 4 whole cloves
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Egg Mixture

  • 12 large egg yolks
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup dark brown sugar

Dairy and Flavoring

  • 2 cups half & half (equal parts whole milk and heavy cream)
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Infuse Milk with Spices: In a saucepan, combine the 4 cups of whole milk with 4 whole cloves, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg. Heat gently over medium heat until just below boiling to allow the spices to infuse the milk, then remove from heat and let the mixture steep for 15 minutes.
  2. Mix Egg Yolks and Sugars: While the milk is infusing, whisk together 12 large egg yolks, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup dark brown sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is thick and pale.
  3. Temper the Egg Mixture: Slowly pour the warm spiced milk into the egg yolk mixture in a thin stream while whisking constantly to avoid curdling. Once combined, return the full mixture to the saucepan.
  4. Cook Eggnog Base: Cook the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of the spoon (about 170°F on a candy thermometer). Do not boil to prevent scrambling the eggs.
  5. Cool the Mixture: Remove from heat and strain through a fine sieve to remove cloves and any cooked egg bits. Let it cool to room temperature.
  6. Add Half & Half and Vanilla: Stir in 2 cups of half & half and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract until fully combined.
  7. Chill: Refrigerate the eggnog for at least 4 hours or overnight to develop flavor and chill thoroughly before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh, high-quality eggs to ensure safety and best flavor.
  • The eggnog can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated for up to 3 days.
  • For an adult version, consider adding rum, bourbon, or brandy to taste after chilling.
  • Always whisk constantly when heating the egg mixture to prevent scrambling.
  • You can garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg before serving.

Find it online: https://recipethrive.com/creamy-homemade-eggnog-recipe/