Simple Homemade Eggnog

This delicious homemade eggnog recipe is easy to make. Perfect for the holidays to serve the whole family. Add alcohol to make it a party cocktail or use this in a recipe that calls for eggnog when it's not available in stores.

This homemade eggnog is perfect for the holidays—and so much better than store bought!

A rich custard is sweetened with brown sugar and flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

★ Why You'll Love this Recipe ★

This eggnog recipe is fully cooked and non-alcoholic so its a fun holiday treat for the whole family.

You can easily make offer liquor which can be stirred in to make this eggnog into a cocktail.

This is a great go-to recipe if you need eggnog for a recipe like Taylor Swift cookies when eggnog is not available in stores.

★ Ingredients You'll Need ★

Eggnog doesn't require a long list of ingredients or anything out of the ordinary. You may ever already have everything you need on-hand!

Here's what you'll need to gather up:

• Egg yolks. Just the yolks add thickness and that rich flavor eggnog is famous for. You can save the egg whites for a healthy omelette or try my egg white bites!
• Milk and heavy cream. Whole milk + heavy cream will give you a thicker, more rich flavor. The combination of milk and cream makes for the perfect rich and creamy eggnog– I highly recommend using both!
• Cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and spice to the eggnog. Freshly grated nutmeg adds amazing flavor but powdered works fine too.
• Vanilla extract adds delicious flavor and enhances the sweetness of the eggnog. Be sure to use pure vanilla extract.
• Brown sugar. You can go light or dark brown sugar. Dark has more molasses so if you want a more rich flavor, go dark!
  
• Liquor is optional. Most traditional eggnog is made with brandy. However, dark rum, brandy, spiced rum, whiskey, and bourbon are also great options depending on your preference.
• Garnish. For a fun festive look, garnish with star anise and/or cinnamon sticks. A pinch of cinnamon powder and sugar also floats nicely on top creating a pretty presentation.

★ How to Make this Recipe ★

Here's a quick look at the steps involved in making this homemade eggnog recipe. The full recipe can be found further down.

• Whisk together the egg yolks and brown sugar.
• Heat and whisk together milk, heavy cream, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• Add milk mixture to egg, stir to combine.
• Return to sauce pan and cook.
• Remove pan from heat and add vanilla. 
• Serve hot or chill serving.

Tip: Go slow and stir, and you'll be fine!

★ Tips & FAQs ★

Storage

Eggnog must be stored in the fridge and keeps well for up to 6 days.

If you want your eggnog to last longer, or if you have extra you want to save for later, then freezing if a great option. Eggnog will last up to 6 month frozen. Just thaw in the fridge, overnight, before serving.

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Embrace the holiday season!

Browse all my Christmas recipes