Introduction
Eggnog is the ultimate Christmas drink, a creamy and festive beverage that captures the warmth of the holiday season in every sip. With its smooth blend of milk, cream, eggs, and sugar, flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg, it’s a nostalgic holiday treat that brings family and friends together. Traditionally served chilled and often spiked with a splash of rum, bourbon, or brandy, this classic recipe is comforting and indulgent—like Christmas in a cup.
Eggnog has roots in European holiday traditions and has since become a cherished part of Christmas celebrations around the world. The rich creaminess paired with the fragrant spices makes it the perfect drink to sip by the fireplace, alongside cookies, or as a sweet ending to a festive meal.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it embodies the essence of the holidays—rich, comforting, and heartwarming. The creamy texture, combined with the warm spice of cinnamon and nutmeg, creates a flavor that feels luxurious yet familiar. It’s versatile, too: you can serve it non-alcoholic for kids and families, or add a splash of rum or bourbon for adults.
I also love that making it from scratch feels like a little holiday tradition in itself. The process is simple but special, filling the kitchen with the aroma of vanilla and warm spices.
Why This is a Must-Try Dish
- It’s a holiday classic that everyone looks forward to.
- Rich, creamy, and spiced perfectly with nutmeg and cinnamon.
- Can be enjoyed with or without alcohol—great for all ages.
- Perfect for holiday gatherings, Christmas Eve traditions, or cozy winter nights.
- Far better than store-bought eggnog—fresh, rich, and preservative-free.
Preparation & Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Cooling/Chilling Time: 1–2 hours
- Total Time: ~2.5 hours (including chilling)
- Servings: 6–8 cups
- Calories: ~250 calories per serving (without alcohol)
Cuisine & Course
- Cuisine: American / European Holiday Drink
- Course: Beverage (Christmas Specialty)
Ingredients
For Eggnog Base:
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
For Serving:
- Extra ground nutmeg (for garnish)
- Cinnamon sticks (optional)
- Whipped cream (optional)
Optional (Alcoholic Version):
- 1/2 to 1 cup dark rum, bourbon, or brandy
Simple Directions
- Whisk egg yolks with sugar until thick.
- Heat milk and cream with cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Temper eggs with hot milk mixture.
- Cook until slightly thickened.
- Chill, then stir in vanilla and optional alcohol.
Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar together until thick, pale, and creamy.
Step 2: Heat the Milk and Cream
- In a saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Heat over medium heat until warm (don’t let it boil).
Step 3: Temper the Eggs
- Slowly pour a small amount of hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly.
- Gradually add the rest of the milk mixture to the eggs, whisking to avoid scrambling.
Step 4: Cook the Mixture
- Return the combined mixture to the saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 160°F/70°C).
- Remove from heat immediately.
Step 5: Cool & Finish
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- If using alcohol, stir it in once cooled.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours before serving.
How to Serve
- Serve chilled in mugs or glasses.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg and a cinnamon stick.
- For extra indulgence, top with whipped cream.
- Pair with Christmas cookies, gingerbread, or fruitcake.
Additional Recipe Tips
- Use freshly grated nutmeg for the best flavor.
- Always temper the eggs slowly to avoid curdling.
- For thicker eggnog, use more heavy cream or add whipped egg whites at the end.
- Serve in a punch bowl for large holiday gatherings.
Variations
- Dairy-Free Version: Use almond milk or oat milk with coconut cream.
- Vegan Version: Replace eggs with silken tofu or cashew cream for thickness.
- Chocolate Eggnog: Add 1/2 cup melted chocolate or cocoa powder to the milk mixture.
- Coffee Eggnog: Stir in 1/2 cup brewed espresso for a festive twist.
Freezing & Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Eggnog doesn’t freeze well due to dairy separation, but you can freeze for up to 1 month and blend before serving.
- Reheating: Serve cold or gently warm before drinking (without alcohol).
Special Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Fine mesh strainer (optional, for smoother eggnog)
- Thermometer (optional, for temperature accuracy)
Conclusion
The Creamy Christmas Eggnog with Nutmeg and Cinnamon is more than just a drink—it’s a holiday tradition in a cup. Smooth, rich, and beautifully spiced, it’s the perfect way to bring warmth and festivity to your Christmas celebrations. Whether enjoyed as a family-friendly version or spiked for adults, this recipe is a must-try holiday classic that will make your gatherings extra special
Creamy Christmas Eggnog with Nutmeg and Cinnamon
Description
Eggnog is the ultimate Christmas drink, a creamy and festive beverage that captures the warmth of the holiday season in every sip.
Ingredients
For Eggnog Base:
For Serving:
Optional (Alcoholic Version):
Instructions
-
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture : In a mixing bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar together until thick, pale, and creamy.
-
Step 2: Heat the Milk and Cream : In a saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Heat over medium heat until warm (don’t let it boil).
-
Step 3: Temper the Eggs : Slowly pour a small amount of hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly. Gradually add the rest of the milk mixture to the eggs, whisking to avoid scrambling.
-
Step 4: Cook the Mixture : Return the combined mixture to the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 160°F/70°C). Remove from heat immediately.
-
Step 5: Cool & Finish : Stir in vanilla extract. If using alcohol, stir it in once cooled. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours before serving.
