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Cozy Homemade Eggnog with Nutmeg and Bourbon

cozy homemade eggnog with nutmeg and bourbon - featured image

This rich, velvety eggnog is made with fresh nutmeg and bourbon for a cozy holiday treat. Quick and easy, it’s perfect for winter evenings and holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large egg yolks (room temperature)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (plus more for garnish)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup bourbon (such as Buffalo Trace or Maker’s Mark)

Instructions

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until pale yellow and slightly thick, about 2 minutes.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt. Heat over medium heat until hot but not boiling (about 160°F), stirring occasionally, about 4-5 minutes.
  3. Slowly drizzle about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
  4. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining hot milk, whisking constantly.
  5. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3-5 minutes. Do not let it boil.
  6. Remove from heat and blend with an immersion blender directly in the pot until smooth and velvety, about 30 seconds. (Alternatively, let cool 5 minutes and blend in batches in a regular blender with lid slightly open.)
  7. For extra smoothness, strain through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean pitcher or bowl.
  8. Stir in the bourbon. Taste and adjust if desired.
  9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
  10. Serve chilled in small glasses or mugs, garnished with freshly grated nutmeg.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated nutmeg. The eggnog improves after a day in the fridge. For a non-alcoholic version, omit bourbon and add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week (with bourbon) or 3-4 days (without).

Nutrition

Keywords: eggnog, homemade eggnog, bourbon eggnog, nutmeg, holiday drink, Christmas, cozy, winter