Traditional Festive Eggnog

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour
🍽 Serves: 8
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Traditional Festive Eggnog is a classic holiday treat that brings warmth and cheer to any gathering. This homemade version is rich and creamy, perfect for sipping by the fire or sharing with loved ones. Let's dive into making this creamy delight from scratch!

Ingredients for Traditional Festive Eggnog

Eggs are the backbone of this recipe, providing richness and structure to the eggnog. It's important to separate the yolks from the whites to achieve the perfect texture. Granulated sugar sweetens the mixture just right, while whole milk and heavy cream add a luxurious creaminess. The optional bourbon brings a warm kick, but feel free to skip it if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. Vanilla extract enhances the flavor, while ground nutmeg and ground cinnamon add that unmistakable holiday spice. A pinch of salt rounds everything out, balancing the sweetness perfectly.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you're concerned about raw eggs, you can use pasteurized eggs for peace of mind.
  • For a thicker eggnog, increase the heavy cream and decrease the milk slightly.
  • Freshly grated nutmeg adds a more aromatic flavor compared to pre-ground.
  • For a non-alcoholic version, simply skip the bourbon, or replace it with a splash of rum extract.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your eggnog in festive mugs or glasses with a cinnamon stick for stirring. It pairs beautifully with gingerbread cookies or a slice of fruitcake. For an added touch, top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make eggnog ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it up to 3 days in advance. Just give it a good shake or stir before serving.
What can I use instead of bourbon?
Try using dark rum or brandy, or skip the alcohol entirely for a family-friendly version.
How can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute the milk and cream with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Traditional Festive Eggnog Recipe Walkthrough

Start by separating the egg yolks and whites, placing the yolks in a large mixing bowl and the whites in another. Grab an electric mixer or whisk, and beat the yolks with the sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for dissolving the sugar and creating a light texture.

Once your yolks and sugar are well-combined, slowly add in the milk and heavy cream. Stir continuously to ensure everything blends smoothly and evenly. At this point, if you're feeling a little festive, you can stir in the bourbon. Next, add the vanilla extract, nutmeg, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This combination will give your eggnog that classic holiday flavor.

Now, turn your attention to the egg whites. Beat them until they form soft peaks — this means they should look fluffy and hold their shape but still be a bit droopy. Gently fold these beaten whites into your eggnog mixture. Folding is key here; you want to incorporate the whites without deflating them, which keeps your eggnog light and airy.

Refrigerate the eggnog for at least an hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you're ready to serve, give it a good stir and pour it into glasses, topping each with a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and creamy texture that beats store-bought versions.
  • Customizable with your choice of bourbon or non-alcoholic.
  • Perfect balance of spices for a festive flavor.
  • No artificial flavors or preservatives.
  • Simple ingredients you likely already have at home.

Ingredients

6 large eggs
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup bourbon (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Separate the egg yolks and whites, placing yolks in a large bowl and whites in another.
2. Beat the egg yolks with sugar until smooth and creamy.
3. Slowly add the milk and heavy cream to the yolk mixture, stirring continuously.
4. Stir in the bourbon, vanilla extract, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
5. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.
6. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the eggnog mixture until well combined.
7. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving chilled with a sprinkle of nutmeg on top.

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