by Beth Pierce 75 Comments
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It is that time of the year again, and this luscious Homemade Eggnog Recipe comes together quickly in just a few easy steps and tastes much better than store-bought. We enjoy ours topped with a little whipped cream and a pinch of cinnamon. For entertaining, we make two batches, one alcohol-free and the other spiked with a little bit of brandy or rum. We love to serve this forChristmasEve dinner and at our holiday parties.
What is Eggnog?
Eggnog is a creamy milky custard dairy beverage lightly seasoned with nutmeg and sometimes other spices. It is traditionally served around the holiday season chilled and sometimes spiked with a bit of rum, whiskey, bourbon, or brandy.
Why this recipe works!
- It tastes SO MUCH better than store-bought without all those darn preservatives. There isn’t any boxed or bottled processed smell or taste. Only all-naturalingredientsfor exceptionalflavor.
- It is so easy to make that even your teenager can handle this. You can also have this fresh creamy treat in just a few simple steps.
- You can make this eggnog recipe in about the time it takes to drive to the grocery store.
- With only wholesome natural ingredients, this is one refreshment you can feel good about feeding your family.
How to make Homemade Eggnog
Start by heating the milk, cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves together over medium heat, frequently whisking to prevent anything from burning to the bottom of the pan. Heat the milk mixture until it is hot but not boiling. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together, adding the sugar a couple of tablespoons at a time and mixing thoroughly.
Now using a soup ladle, spoon about half a ladle full of the hot milk mixture into the eggs and whisk to combine. Continue adding more and more until most of the milk mixture has been mixed in. Make sure you are whisking thoroughly after each addition. Now, pour the egg mixture back into the pan on the stove with the remaining milk mixture. Then cook until the mixture reaches 160-170 degrees F, whisking constantly. Do not allow the mixture to boil. It will be slightly thick but will thicken more as it cools. Finally, remove from the heat and whisk in the vanilla and alcohol if adding it. Serve with whipped cream and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Or pour into a sealable pitcher and chillin thefridgefor several hours before serving.
Recipe notes and helpful tips
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the final mixture cooks those raw eggs to 160 degrees F.
- Stir and whisk almost constantly. Keep it going, as you want the egg yolks and sugar incorporated well. You don’t want the milk mixture to burn or scorch to the bottom of the pan, and you don’t want egg pieces floating around in your final creamy custard mixture. Remember that a spoon helps reach the bottom inside corners of the pot, but a whisk helps keep everything combined.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- I like the spices on the light side. However, they can be adjusted to suit your taste.
- For best results, chill overnight.
- If spiking, add 2-3 ounces of dark rum, whiskey, bourbon, or brandy. It will hit the spot just right without overwhelming the Eggnog.
What type of alcohol goes in Eggnog
Rum, brandy, bourbon, or whiskey can be added to Eggnog. I prefer rum, but I like brandy or whiskey as well. Trust me when I say that. Just a small amount is all you need so it does not overwhelm the Eggnog. I always start with a little bit because you can add more, but you sure can’t take it back.
More holiday recipes to try!
Traditional Eggnog Recipe
A creamy, easy-to-make homemade eggnog with nutmeg, cinnamon, and a pinch of ground cloves. Just as creamy as the store-bought brands without any preservatives or artificial ingredients. Make this holiday treat and impress your family and friends.
5 from 37 votes
Print Pin Rate
Course: beverage
Cuisine: Americen
Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 308kcal
Author: Beth Pierce
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk or 2%
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- pinch of cloves
- 6 egg yolks room temperature
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- whipped cream optional
- extra ground cinnamon or nutmeg optional
Instructions
In a medium saucepan over medium/medium-low heat, combine milk, cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. Whisk very frequently while bringing the mixture almost to boiling.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine egg yolks and sugar. Add sugar 2 tablespoons at a time, whisking thoroughly before adding more.
Using a soup ladle, add about 1/3 cup of the hot milk mixture to the egg mixture, whisking thoroughly. Keep adding the hot mixture to the egg mixture, whisking thoroughly between each addition. When most of the milk mixture has been whisked into the egg mixture (about 3/4 of it), add it back to the saucepan.
Cook until the mixture reaches 160 degrees F, whisking constantly. Use a spoon to reach those tight edges at the base of the pan. It will be slightly thick but will thicken more as it cools.
Remove from the heat and whisk in the vanilla. Serve with whipped cream and a light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the final mixture cooks those raw eggs to 160 degrees F.
- Stir and whisk almost constantly. Keep it going, as you want the egg yolks and sugar incorporated well. You don't want the milk mixture to burn or scorch to the bottom of the pan, and you don't want egg pieces floating around in your final creamy custard mixture. Remember that a spoon helps reach the bottom inside corners of the pot, but a whisk helps keep everything combined.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- I like the spices on the light side. However, they can be adjusted to suit your taste.
- For best results, chill overnight.
- If spiking, add 2-3 ounces of dark rum, whiskey, bourbon, or brandy. It will hit the spot just right without overwhelming the eggnog.
Nutrition
Calories: 308kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 249mg | Sodium: 50mg | Potassium: 181mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 22g | Vitamin A: 975IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 151mg | Iron: 1mg
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More Recipes and Cooking
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Nutrition Disclaimer: All nutritional information shared on this site is an approximation. I am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information shared on this site should be used as a general guideline.
Reader Interactions
Comments
Erica
I substituted the eggs for quail eggs (allergy) and the milk for oatmilk and used a dairy free cream. (Really sounds delicious doesn’t it 😆)I can not believe how amazing this turned out!! So delicious and easy to make. I can’t wait to share with my family!!
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Beth Pierce
Thanks, Erica! Sounds like you were sucessful in adapting the recipe to your needs. I love a good cook!
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Belle
Where do you get quail eggs?
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Elisa
We have used this recipe for several years. It is alwasy creamy, and so delicious. It is easy to make and so much better than the premade junk from the store. Thanks for sharing 🙂Reply
Beth Pierce
Thanks, Elisa! I am glad that you like the homemade eggnog recipe.
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Shelby
This homemade eggnog recipe is so rich and delicious. I look forward to making it all year!Reply
Beth Pierce
Thank you, Shelby! I feel the same way. It is just that good.
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Justine
I’ve always wanted to try homemade eggnog, but it seemed super intimidating – this recipe was great! So easy, awesome tips and directions, it was really easy to follow and came out tasting WONDERFUL.Beth Pierce
Thanks, Justine! I am so glad that you liked it. We love it too!
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Sisley
I’d never made homemade eggnog before but it was so easy, good, and creamy. It was a test run for the holidays. I can’t wait to make it again at Christmas.Reply
Beth Pierce
Thanks, Sisley! So glad that you liked the eggnog.
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Kate
A perfect classic eggnog! I love the fresh flavors.Reply
Beth Pierce
Thanks, Kate!
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Norma
I had never tried egg nog but always been intrigued by it. I tried this recipe out and it was really tasty and quite easy. I will make it at Christmas this year. Thanks for the great recipe, Beth!Reply
Beth Pierce
You are most welcome, Norma! So glad that you liked it!
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Natalie
My family really enjoyed this. It is so much better than store bought and not too difficult to make. I am going to make a spiked batch for Thanksgiving. I know everyone will love it.
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Tammy
Homemade eggnog is sooo delicious! I’ve only had fresh once at a holiday party years and years ago and always wanted to make my own. Now I have a recipe 😀 Thank you!
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Beth Pierce
My pleasure, Tammy! Enjoy!
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Sue
Your Homemade Eggnog Recipe was absolutely delightful! There’s nothing quite like the rich, creamy goodness of homemade eggnog during the holiday season. I love the idea of offering both alcohol-free and spiked versions for guests—it’s a thoughtful touch for everyone’s preferences. Whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon are the perfect finishing touches.Reply
Beth Pierce
Thanks, Sue! So glad that you liked the eggnog. We love it too. It is delicious.
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Marie
Ohhh! I didnt know I could make EGGNOG by myself. It turned out so creamy and tasty with none of that fake carton taste.Reply
Janice
Eggnog is such an American classic! I can never find it in shops here, so thank you so much for your recipe.
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Beth Pierce
You are most welcome, Janice!
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Sarah
This eggnog is so creamy and delicious. I ran a test run for the holidays and it is amazing with our without alchohol. Thanks for the inspiration.Reply
Lisa
Eggnog is something I always wanted to try. This recipe looks easy to follow and I will give it a go at home.
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Mel
This sounds like a great version of the drink. It’s a classic for Christmas parties.Reply
Stephanie
I never cared for eggnog until I tried this recipe. My goodness, it is so much better than the eggnog in cartons – I am sure we will make this often during the holiday season.Reply
Beth Pierce
You are right this homemade eggnog is so much better. The stuff in the cartons tastes so processed.
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Kit
I haven’t made this yet, i had a question. Will the recipe still work using lactose free milk?
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Beth Pierce
I am not sure. I have not tried. Perhaps one of the readers will know the answer to that.
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Tisha
See AlsoBourbon Peach Jam Recipe
Delicious, easy, and perfect for the holidays. Thanks for sharing the recipe.Reply
Erin
Was really fantastic! I will make this again for the holidays. I wanted to try it first.
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Fransic verso
What a great recipe! We really enjoyed it! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!Reply
Ebony
My family and I were just experimenting with eggnog co*cktail recipes this week! I decided to try this recipe to make our eggnog from scratch and it turned out perfect! Way better than the store bought stuff! This recipe is a keeper for sure!Reply
Beth Pierce
Thanks so much, Ebony. So glad that you liked the eggnog! It is quite yummy!
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Brian
Cool. I never tried to make this before. I know it’s always a big thing around the holidays.Reply
briannemanzb
This is so much better than a store-bought. For the past year, we just buy from stores but now that I have perfected your recipe. It’s gonna be a tradition to have homemade eggnog every year.Reply
Beth Pierce
So glad that you like it! We love it too! It is amazing!
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Sienna
I was just at a bakery with an eggnog flavor discussing how I actually have never had eggnog and have no idea what it is! I asked the person helping us what was in eggnog and they said it was their favorite treat they make but he didn’t really know! I did enjoy the treat it was creamy and nutmeg-y and I’m so excited to find your recipe and try out the actual real-deal drink for myself!Reply
Jennifer L Prince
I’ve never tried making egg nog before. I need to test this recipe. It sounds fun!
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DDana
The taste is really good but for some reason after I refrigerated it it’s now sooooooo thiiiiiick. More like a thick pudding than a drink. Not sure what I did wrong. Gonna try just adding more milk to it.
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Beth Pierce
Humm. Let me think about that one.
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Mandie
I love Eggnog. I can’t wait to try making it myself. My only question is.. do you have to add clove? I can’t stand the smell or taste of clove. Thank you for sharing this recipe!
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Beth Pierce
No you do not have to add it. Enjoy your eggnog.
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Mandie
Thank you sooo much!
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IceCreamnStickyFingers
I think my grandma used to make homemade Egg Nog. Personally, I’ve never tried making it but I do drink at least one glass a year. It is very unhealthy but oh so tasty.
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Beth Pierce
I do love a glass of homemade eggnog. It is so incredibly yummy!
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Sarah Bailey
Do you know I’ve never had eggnog! Now
I can try it by making my own!Reply
Lynndee
I have never tried making my own eggnog. Thank you for the recipe. Will try it sometime.
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Catalina
Oh yes! I love this holiday season for this eggnog drink. I am so happy to make it at home now.Reply
Lisalisa
This looks delicious! I must confess I have never had eggnog before! I may need to try your recipe.
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Mommy Blog Expert
I’m a huge egg nog fan, especially during the holidays. Your recipe looks so good, I have to try making this.
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Beth Pierce
Thanks! Enjoy!!
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Alita Pacio
I grew up eating eggnog. My mom used to make it. I thought I’ll learn how to make it too. Thank you for your recipeReply
Beth
We love eggnog! I’ll have to try this recipe!Reply
Richelle Milar
This is a such really amazing recipe, It look so good! I would love to try this!
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Tara Pittman
My husband loves eggnog. I will have to make this for him.
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vickie rampelbergh
This Eggnog recipe is a winner for me Beth , I surely will be making this for the Holidays !!!Reply
Andrea Thueson
I never thought of making homemade eggnog, and this recipe made it super easy to do! My family loved it 🙂Reply
Natalie
This has me so excited for the holidays!! Homemade eggnog is the best!! So rich & creamy!Reply
Faye Roner
I could drink homemade eggnog all year long! So delicious!Reply
April
So delicious! Perfect for giving as a gift, too – who doesn’t love homemade eggnog?Reply
Lily
This was incredible so much flavor, this is the perfect eggnog for these cold and gloomy days. I drank 3 mugs of it while watching my show 🙂Reply
Shelley
My family just loves eggnog, and this one is so pretty! They’ll absolutely love it!Reply
Kevin
Nothing beats homemade eggnog! This looks like it is going to be a winner!Reply
Catalina
It’s great to make eggnog at home! Thanks for the recipe!Reply
Haley Williams
This is amazing! Can’t believe how easy it is to make homemade eggnogReply
Erin | Dinners,Dishes and Dessert
This Homemade Eggnog looks absolutely delicious! Yummy!Reply
Vikki
This eggnog is so delicious! A tasty holiday treat my friends will loveReply
Amanda
I love eggnog but it always sells out so quick so this is perfect!
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Dorothy Reinhold
I have never attempted to make eggnog homemade! This is the year for me to start that tradition.
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Vicky
Eggnog is a wonderful holiday beverage! Thanks for this recipe!!Reply
Jessica Formicola
I’ve always wanted to try making homemade eggnog, and this recipe looks perfect! Can’t wait to try it out soon!Reply
Tara
Yum! So perfect for the season and definitely better than homemade. I love how easily the eggnog comes together too.Reply
Tisha
I know a few people that love eggnog, Making it at home would be wonderful for them!Reply
