When the holiday season rolls around, nothing feels more festive than a chilled (or warm!) glass of creamy, spiced eggnog. This classic drink is rich, cozy, and full of nostalgic flavor — perfect for Christmas parties, cozy nights in, or even as a decadent dessert drink.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the best homemade eggnog recipe — smooth, perfectly spiced, and surprisingly easy. Whether you prefer it traditional with a splash of rum or alcohol-free for the whole family, this recipe will bring holiday cheer to every sip.
🎄 What Is Eggnog?
Eggnog is a traditional holiday drink made with eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. The mixture is often gently cooked to thicken it, then chilled and served topped with whipped cream or a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Originating in 17th-century England, eggnog became a beloved North American tradition — especially in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada — where it’s served at Christmas, New Year’s, and winter gatherings.
🥚 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make your homemade eggnog recipe from scratch:
6 large eggs (separated)
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
(Optional) ½ to 1 cup bourbon, dark rum, or brandy
For serving:
Freshly grated nutmeg or cinnamon stick
Whipped cream (optional)
🍶 How to Make Eggnog (Step-by-Step)
🥄 Step 1: Beat the Egg Yolks
In a large bowl, whisk egg yolks until they lighten in color. Slowly add ½ cup of sugar, whisking until the mixture is thick and pale.
🥛 Step 2: Heat the Milk Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine milk, cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is hot but not boiling (about 170°F or 77°C).
🍳 Step 3: Temper the Eggs
Slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling.
Then, gradually pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the milk.
🔥 Step 4: Cook Until Slightly Thickened
Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the mixture thickens slightly — it should coat the back of the spoon. Don’t let it boil!
Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
❄️ Step 5: Chill Completely
Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher or bowl.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours (or overnight) until completely cold.
🥂 Step 6: Add the Spirits (Optional)
Once chilled, stir in bourbon, rum, or brandy if desired. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
☁️ Step 7: Whip the Egg Whites (Optional for Frothier Eggnog)
In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with the remaining ¼ cup sugar until soft peaks form. Gently fold them into the chilled mixture for an ultra-light, frothy texture.
🎁 Step 8: Serve & Enjoy
Pour your homemade eggnog into glasses or mugs.
Top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or a cinnamon stick for garnish.
Sip, smile, and taste the holidays! 🎄
🌟 Variations to Try
🍫 1. Chocolate Eggnog
Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the milk while heating for a rich, chocolaty twist.
☕ 2. Coffee Eggnog Latte
Mix equal parts eggnog and coffee — the perfect cozy morning treat.
🥥 3. Dairy-Free Eggnog
Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk instead of dairy, and skip the heavy cream for a lighter but still delicious version.
🍦 4. Frozen Eggnog Milkshake
Blend chilled eggnog with vanilla ice cream for a frosty dessert drink.
💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Eggnog
✅ Use fresh, high-quality eggs. They’re the backbone of this recipe.
✅ Don’t overheat. The mixture should never boil — it’ll curdle.
✅ Chill thoroughly. The flavor deepens and thickens as it cools.
✅ Add alcohol before serving. It preserves the flavor and keeps the texture silky.
✅ Make ahead. Eggnog actually tastes better the next day — the flavors blend beautifully overnight.
🥰 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade eggnog recipe is creamy, perfectly spiced, and endlessly customizable. Unlike store-bought versions, it’s not overly sweet and has a velvety texture that feels indulgent yet balanced.
It’s the kind of drink that gathers people around — the taste of tradition, joy, and celebration in every sip.
🎄 Conclusion: Try This Eggnog Recipe Today!
Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, cozying up by the fireplace, or looking for that perfect Christmas morning treat, this recipe is all you need. It’s rich, comforting, and bursting with festive flavor.
So grab your whisk, pour yourself a glass, and try this eggnog recipe today! Your family and friends will thank you — and you’ll never go back to store-bought again. 🎅✨