There’s nothing quite like sipping on a glass of Classic Eggnog to set the holiday mood. Creamy, rich, and lightly spiced, this festive drink has been a seasonal favorite for centuries. Whether you enjoy it chilled or warm, spiked with a splash of rum, or kept family-friendly, eggnog is the ultimate holiday tradition in a glass.
In this article, you’ll find everything you need to make the best Classic Eggnog at home—from a detailed ingredient list to step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and nutritional information. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients for Classic Eggnog
To make this creamy and indulgent drink, you’ll need a handful of simple but rich ingredients:
-
6 large eggs (separated into yolks and whites)
-
¾ cup granulated sugar
-
2 cups whole milk (for creaminess)
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus more for garnish)
-
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
-
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
-
½ to 1 cup rum, brandy, or bourbon (optional, for an adult version)
-
Pinch of salt
Optional Garnish:
-
Freshly whipped cream
-
Extra cinnamon stick or star anise
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Making Classic Eggnog at home doesn’t require complicated equipment. Here are the tools that will make preparation easier:
-
Mixing bowls (medium and large)
-
Whisk or electric hand mixer
-
Heavy-bottomed saucepan
-
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
-
Fine mesh strainer (optional, for extra smooth texture)
-
Ladle
-
Pitcher or punch bowl for serving
-
Glasses or mugs
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Classic Eggnog
Follow these simple steps to prepare your homemade Classic Eggnog:
Step 1: Separate the Eggs
-
Carefully separate the egg yolks from the whites. Place yolks in a medium mixing bowl and the whites in another clean bowl.
-
Make sure no yolk mixes with the whites, as you’ll need them to whip properly later.
2: Whisk the Egg Yolks and Sugar
-
Whisk the egg yolks with sugar until the mixture becomes pale, thick, and slightly creamy. This step ensures a smooth and rich eggnog base.
3: Heat the Milk and Cream
-
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, heavy cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
-
Stir continuously and heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling (around 160°F/70°C).
4: Temper the Egg Mixture
-
Slowly add a ladle of the hot milk mixture into the yolk mixture while whisking constantly. This process, called “tempering,” prevents the eggs from scrambling.
-
Gradually add more hot liquid until the yolk mixture is warm.
5: Cook the Custard Base
-
Pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the milk and cream.
-
Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Do not let it boil.
6: Add Flavor and Cool
-
Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
-
Optional: Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer for extra smoothness.
7: Whip the Egg Whites
-
Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.
-
Gently fold them into the cooled custard base. This step gives your Classic Eggnog its signature light and airy texture.
8: Chill and Serve
-
Refrigerate the eggnog for at least 2 hours before serving.
-
If desired, stir in rum, brandy, or bourbon before chilling.
-
Ladle into glasses, top with whipped cream, and sprinkle with extra nutmeg.
Tips for the Best Classic Eggnog
-
Use Fresh Eggs – Since eggnog relies heavily on eggs, make sure they’re farm-fresh or pasteurized for safety and taste.
-
Spiking the Nog – Rum, brandy, or bourbon are traditional choices. For a unique twist, try spiced rum or even Irish whiskey.
-
Make It Ahead – Eggnog tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day in advance for holiday gatherings.
-
Non-Alcoholic Version – Skip the liquor for a family-friendly eggnog. You can also add a splash of vanilla or almond extract for extra flavor.
-
Serving Ideas – Serve eggnog chilled in mugs or glasses, topped with whipped cream and dusted with nutmeg or cinnamon. You can also use it as a base for festive lattes or even in desserts like eggnog cheesecake.
-
Storage – Keep eggnog refrigerated in a covered pitcher for up to 3 days. Shake or stir before serving, as it may separate slightly.
Nutritional Value (Per Serving, about 1 cup)
Note: These values may vary depending on added alcohol and garnishes.
-
Calories: ~260 kcal
-
Protein: 6 g
-
Fat: 15 g
-
Carbohydrates: 20 g
-
Sugars: 18 g
-
Cholesterol: ~180 mg
-
Sodium: 100 mg
Adding alcohol will increase the calorie count by about 60–80 calories per ounce.
Why You Should Try This Classic Eggnog Recipe
Making Classic Eggnog at home is easier than you think, and the result is far superior to store-bought versions. You control the sweetness, spice level, and whether to spike it or keep it alcohol-free. Plus, the ritual of making eggnog is a holiday tradition in itself, filling your kitchen with the warm aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg.
So, whether you’re hosting a Christmas party, enjoying a cozy winter evening by the fire, or simply looking for a festive treat, this Classic Eggnog recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Conclusion
There’s a reason Classic Eggnog has been a holiday staple for generations. Its creamy texture, comforting spices, and versatility make it a drink everyone looks forward to each season. By following this simple recipe, you’ll create a homemade version that’s rich, flavorful, and unforgettable.
This year, skip the store-bought cartons and prepare your own festive drink. Serve it chilled, topped with whipped cream, and sprinkled with nutmeg—and watch as it becomes the star of your holiday celebrations.
Now it’s your turn: gather your ingredients, whisk up a batch, and make this Classic Eggnog the centerpiece of your holiday tradition. Cheers to a festive season!
