Homemade Eggnog Recipe (2024)

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.

Homemade Eggnog Recipe (1)

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.
Homemade Eggnog Recipe (2)

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.

Homemade Eggnog Recipe (3)

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.
Homemade Eggnog Recipe (4)

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!

Butter Cookies
Cranberry Sauce
Rum Balls
Sausage Stuffing
Spritz Cookies
Homemade Green Bean Casserole

Homemade Eggnog Recipe (11)

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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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

  1. Erica

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (16)
    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!!

    Reply

    • Beth Pierce

      Thanks, Erica! Sounds like you were sucessful in adapting the recipe to your needs. I love a good cook!

      Reply

    • Belle

      Where do you get quail eggs?

      Reply

  2. Elisa

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (17)
    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.

      Reply

  3. Shelby

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (18)
    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.

      Reply

    • Beth Pierce

      Thanks, Justine! I am so glad that you liked it. We love it too!

      Reply

  4. Sisley

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (20)
    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.

      Reply

  5. Kate

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (21)
    A perfect classic eggnog! I love the fresh flavors.

    Reply

    • Beth Pierce

      Thanks, Kate!

      Reply

  6. Norma

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (22)
    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!

      Reply

  7. 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.

    Reply

  8. 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!

    Reply

    • Beth Pierce

      My pleasure, Tammy! Enjoy!

      Reply

  9. Sue

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (23)
    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.

      Reply

  10. Marie

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (24)
    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

  11. Janice

    Eggnog is such an American classic! I can never find it in shops here, so thank you so much for your recipe.

    Reply

    • Beth Pierce

      You are most welcome, Janice!

      Reply

  12. Sarah

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (25)
    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

  13. Lisa

    Eggnog is something I always wanted to try. This recipe looks easy to follow and I will give it a go at home.

    Reply

  14. Mel

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (26)
    This sounds like a great version of the drink. It’s a classic for Christmas parties.

    Reply

  15. Stephanie

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (27)
    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.

      Reply

    • Kit

      I haven’t made this yet, i had a question. Will the recipe still work using lactose free milk?

      Reply

      • Beth Pierce

        I am not sure. I have not tried. Perhaps one of the readers will know the answer to that.

        Reply

  16. Erin

    Was really fantastic! I will make this again for the holidays. I wanted to try it first.

    Reply

  17. Fransic verso

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (29)
    What a great recipe! We really enjoyed it! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

    Reply

  18. Ebony

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (30)
    My family and I were just experimenting with eggnog cocktail 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!

      Reply

  19. Brian

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (31)
    Cool. I never tried to make this before. I know it’s always a big thing around the holidays.

    Reply

  20. briannemanzb

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (32)
    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!

      Reply

  21. Sienna

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (33)
    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

  22. Jennifer L Prince

    I’ve never tried making egg nog before. I need to test this recipe. It sounds fun!

    Reply

  23. 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.

    Reply

    • Beth Pierce

      Humm. Let me think about that one.

      Reply

  24. 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!

    Reply

    • Beth Pierce

      No you do not have to add it. Enjoy your eggnog.

      Reply

      • Mandie

        Thank you sooo much!

        Reply

  25. 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.

    Reply

    • Beth Pierce

      I do love a glass of homemade eggnog. It is so incredibly yummy!

      Reply

  26. Sarah Bailey

    Do you know I’ve never had eggnog! Now
    I can try it by making my own!

    Reply

  27. Lynndee

    I have never tried making my own eggnog. Thank you for the recipe. Will try it sometime.

    Reply

  28. Catalina

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (34)
    Oh yes! I love this holiday season for this eggnog drink. I am so happy to make it at home now.

    Reply

  29. Lisalisa

    This looks delicious! I must confess I have never had eggnog before! I may need to try your recipe.

    Reply

  30. 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.

    Reply

    • Beth Pierce

      Thanks! Enjoy!!

      Reply

  31. Alita Pacio

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (35)
    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 recipe

    Reply

  32. Beth

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (36)
    We love eggnog! I’ll have to try this recipe!

    Reply

  33. Richelle Milar

    This is a such really amazing recipe, It look so good! I would love to try this!

    Reply

  34. Tara Pittman

    My husband loves eggnog. I will have to make this for him.

    Reply

  35. vickie rampelbergh

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (37)
    This Eggnog recipe is a winner for me Beth , I surely will be making this for the Holidays !!!

    Reply

  36. Andrea Thueson

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (38)
    I never thought of making homemade eggnog, and this recipe made it super easy to do! My family loved it 🙂

    Reply

  37. Natalie

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (39)
    This has me so excited for the holidays!! Homemade eggnog is the best!! So rich & creamy!

    Reply

  38. Faye Roner

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (40)
    I could drink homemade eggnog all year long! So delicious!

    Reply

  39. April

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (41)
    So delicious! Perfect for giving as a gift, too – who doesn’t love homemade eggnog?

    Reply

  40. Lily

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (42)
    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

  41. Shelley

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (43)
    My family just loves eggnog, and this one is so pretty! They’ll absolutely love it!

    Reply

  42. Kevin

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (44)
    Nothing beats homemade eggnog! This looks like it is going to be a winner!

    Reply

  43. Catalina

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (45)
    It’s great to make eggnog at home! Thanks for the recipe!

    Reply

  44. Haley Williams

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (46)
    This is amazing! Can’t believe how easy it is to make homemade eggnog

    Reply

  45. Erin | Dinners,Dishes and Dessert

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (47)
    This Homemade Eggnog looks absolutely delicious! Yummy!

    Reply

  46. Vikki

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (48)
    This eggnog is so delicious! A tasty holiday treat my friends will love

    Reply

  47. Amanda

    I love eggnog but it always sells out so quick so this is perfect!

    Reply

  48. Dorothy Reinhold

    I have never attempted to make eggnog homemade! This is the year for me to start that tradition.

    Reply

  49. Vicky

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (49)
    Eggnog is a wonderful holiday beverage! Thanks for this recipe!!

    Reply

  50. Jessica Formicola

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (50)
    I’ve always wanted to try making homemade eggnog, and this recipe looks perfect! Can’t wait to try it out soon!

    Reply

  51. Tara

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (51)
    Yum! So perfect for the season and definitely better than homemade. I love how easily the eggnog comes together too.

    Reply

  52. Tisha

    Homemade Eggnog Recipe (52)
    I know a few people that love eggnog, Making it at home would be wonderful for them!

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Homemade Eggnog Recipe (2024)

FAQs

What are the ingredients in eggnog? ›

A traditional holiday drink dating back hundreds of years, eggnog is made with eggs (hence the name), milk, cream, spices like nutmeg and vanilla, and fortified with rum, whisky, and/or brandy.

Why is my homemade eggnog so thick? ›

Heavy cream will make your eggnog thicker and creamier. Boozy eggnog will also continue to thicken in the fridge as it ages.

What is the best alcohol to put in eggnog? ›

Choose The Right Spirit

While brandy is the most traditional alcohol to pair with eggnog, according to traditional recipes, you can also use a mixture of dark rum and Cognac. If you like your eggnog with more of a kick you can also add bourbon, but we recommend sticking to rum and Cognac to preserve the 'nog's flavors.

What to substitute for heavy cream in eggnog? ›

You can make a similar heavy cream alternative using regular milk and butter. Whole milk has a fat percentage of around 3.5% and is preferable to lower-fat varieties, but you'll still want to use more melted butter than you would with half-and-half. For best results, try mixing ⅔ cup of whole milk with ⅓ cup butter.

How long does homemade eggnog last? ›

A fresh batch of eggnog can mature for months, or even years. And some say that's a good thing.

How to make an egg? ›

Step 1In a small nonstick over medium heat, melt butter (or heat oil). Crack egg into pan. Cook 3 minutes, or until white is set. Flip and cook 2 to 3 minutes more, until yolk is completely set.

What makes eggnog unhealthy? ›

“While there are different eggnog recipes, most eggnog will typically contain high amounts of fat from cream and milk, and added sugar for sweetness,” said Cohn. The American Heart Association recommends that people consume no more than 5% to 6% of calories from saturated fat every day to support heart health.

How long should you age eggnog? ›

Combine dairy, booze, and salt in a second bowl or pitcher and then slowly beat into the egg mixture. Move to a large glass jar (or a couple of smaller ones) and store in the fridge for a minimum of 2 weeks. A month would be better, and 2 better still.

What makes eggnog taste better? ›

Add a splash of vanilla or almond extract, or turn your eggnog into an iced eggnog latte by pouring a shot of espresso into the shaker. Either way, you'll feel the spirit of the holidays!

What pairs best with egg nog? ›

Whiskey or bourbon

Both of these spirits work well with holiday flavors like vanilla and spice, so adding a dram to your mug of eggnog is as natural as pairing peppermint with chocolate. Be sure to use a good whiskey that you enjoy sipping on its own.

Is Crown Royal good in eggnog? ›

Egg-cellent Eggnog Tips

Rum – I like dark rum in eggnog (Myers's is what I usually buy), but spiced rum would also be fabulous. Whiskey – I typically use Crown Royal, but use what you like or keep on hand.

Does brandy go bad? ›

Its high alcohol level keeps bacteria from growing in the liquor and protects its integrity when stored in a cool and dark environment. Open brandy won't go bad but it will lose its potency and flavor complexity within 6 months to 2 years of the seal being broken.

Is whipping cream the same as heavy cream? ›

The main difference between the two is their fat content. Heavy cream has slightly more fat than whipping cream. Otherwise, they are nutritionally very similar. You can use them interchangeably in recipes without affecting the taste, although they may lead to different consistencies.

How do you spike eggnog without curdling? ›

To avoid your eggs curdling, slowly add some of your milk into your egg and sugar mixture. Whisk, whisk, whisk! Once everything is combined, you can re-add everything to your saucepan. Add the pure vanilla extract and alcohol of your choice.

Why did my homemade eggnog curdle? ›

Make sure you whisk it while pouring the hot milk, if not the egg will get curdled. Once both mixes are fully mixed in, add that whole mixture into a clean pot and keep it on a low fire while whisking so the eggs don't get curdled until thick.

Is eggnog healthy? ›

Eggnog may not be considered a "health food," but the drink does have some nutritional benefits including certain vitamins and protein. Traditional eggnog is also high in sugar and fat, and for that reason, it's best to drink in moderation as a dessert.

What are the ingredients in favorite day eggnog? ›

Ingredients: milk, sugar, cream, skim milk, whey, egg yolks, guar gum, natural and artificial flavor, carrageenan, spices, salt, gelatin, annatto-turmeric color.

Why does eggnog taste alcoholic? ›

Eggnog is made with a combination of eggs, milk or cream, and sugar. Generally, it's served cold, and it has a custard-like color and texture. Sometimes, bourbon or whiskey or rum is added, which might be one reason it gets broken out around the holidays.

What is store bought egg nog made of? ›

What Is Eggnog Made Of? Today, eggnog is usually made of some combination of eggs (either just the yolks or the yolks and the whipped egg whites), sugar, milk, cream, nutmeg, and sometimes booze. We're all familiar with the cartons of store-bought eggnog that grace supermarkets every December.

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