Easy Homemade Holiday Eggnog Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a holiday eggnog recipe to bring warmth and cheer to the holiday season. Rich, velvety, and perfectly spiced, this creamy holiday drink has been a Christmas tradition for generations. One sip of this festive treat and you’ll understand why it’s considered the ultimate holiday eggnog drink.

When I first learned how to make homemade eggnog, I was surprised by how simple it really is. Fresh eggs, warm milk, a touch of cream, and those cozy spices like nutmeg and cinnamon come together to create a drink that feels indulgent yet comforting. It’s a recipe I’ve carried through the years, serving it in frosty glasses or a big punch bowl topped with whipped cream.

The beauty of Christmas eggnog is that it can be served with or without a splash of rum or bourbon, making it a hit for both kids and adults around the table. No matter how you enjoy it, the rich texture and holiday spices make it unforgettable. This is one of those recipes that feels like a hug in a cup.

If you’re looking for a creamy eggnog recipe to complete your holiday menu, this one is it. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just want a cozy drink by the fireplace, this eggnog will instantly make your season feel more festive and full of cheer.

What You’ll Need When Making Easy Homemade Holiday Eggnog

Before you start whisking and simmering, it’s helpful to have everything ready. Eggnog is simple, but it does require patience, steady stirring, and the right setup to make it perfectly creamy and safe to drink. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

1. Fresh Eggs

• The base of a classic eggnog recipe.
• Use the freshest eggs possible for safety and better flavor.
• They’ll be gently tempered and cooked, so no raw egg concerns.

2. Whole Milk

• Provides body and a silky base.
• Avoid low-fat milk, it makes the nog thin and less flavorful.

3. Heavy Cream

• The key to that luxurious, creamy eggnog recipe everyone craves.
• Balances the sweetness and spices beautifully.

4. Sugar

• Adds the right sweetness without overpowering the spice.
• White granulated sugar works best for smooth blending.

5. Vanilla Extract

• Adds a warm, fragrant note.
• A touch goes a long way in deepening flavor.

6. Ground Nutmeg

• The signature spice in holiday eggnog drinks.
• Freshly grated nutmeg gives the best aroma and taste.

7. Ground Cinnamon (Optional but Recommended)

• Complements nutmeg with a cozy warmth.
• Perfect for a festive Christmas drink twist.

8. Rum, Bourbon, or Brandy (Optional)

• If making eggnog with rum or another spirit, add it once the custard base is cooled.
• Keeps the flavor balanced and adds a festive kick.

9. Mixing Bowls

• For whisking eggs and sugar before tempering.
• Helps keep the process smooth and lump-free.

10. Whisk

• Your best friend in this recipe.
• Prevents curdling and ensures creamy consistency.

11. Saucepan

• Needed to heat the milk and cream gently.
• Should be heavy-bottomed to prevent scorching.

12. Fine-Mesh Strainer

• Removes any bits of cooked egg.
• Guarantees your eggnog is silky smooth.

13. Pitcher or Large Jar

• Perfect for storing your eggnog in the fridge.
• Keeps flavors melded while it chills.

14. Heat-Proof Thermometer

Helps prevent overcooking and curdling.

Optional, but ensures you bring the mixture to a safe 71–74°C (160–165°F).

Quick Tips for the Best Eggnog

• Use fresh, high-quality eggs – They’re the heart of the recipe.
• Whisk constantly when tempering – This prevents curdling.
• Chill overnight – The flavors deepen beautifully.
• Adjust sweetness & spice – Taste as you go and tweak nutmeg, cinnamon, or sugar.
• Serve cold, but garnish warm – Freshly grated nutmeg right before serving makes a difference.

Equipment For Making Holiday Eggnog Recipe

• Glasses for serving
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Pitcher for chilling

Why You’ll Love This Holiday Eggnog Recipe

• Classic holiday flavor – Tastes like Christmas in a glass.
• Creamy yet light – Balanced richness without being too heavy.
• Customizable – Make it boozy with rum or keep it family-friendly.
• Better than store-bought – Fresh, homemade, and free of preservatives.
• Perfect for gatherings – A true holiday party drink and centerpiece for the Christmas dessert table.
• Provides protein and calcium from milk and eggs.
• Contains warming spices like nutmeg and cinnamon with antioxidant properties.
• A comforting drink that boosts holiday mood and nostalgia.

Conclusion

This easy homemade holiday eggnog recipe is more than just a festive drink, it’s a tradition, a memory, and a symbol of holiday cheer. Whether you spike it with rum or keep it family-friendly, it’s the perfect way to celebrate winter gatherings. Creamy, spiced, and endlessly cozy, this eggnog belongs on every Christmas dessert table and holiday party spread. Make it once, and it’ll become a tradition you’ll return to year after year.

✅ Quick Tips: Read through the full recipe before diving in; it’s the best way to get a feel for the flow, prep time, and tools you’ll need. Think of it like scanning a map before a road trip: you’ll cook more confidently and avoid any surprises halfway through.

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Easy Homemade Holiday Eggnog Recipe

This classic homemade eggnog recipe is creamy, spiced, and perfect for the holidays. Made with eggs, milk, cream, nutmeg, and vanilla, it can be enjoyed with or without rum for a festive Christmas eggnog drink. Smooth, custardy, and indulgent, it’s the ultimate holiday party beverage that tastes far better than store-bought.

Delicious

Author: Lia Agbor Cooking Method: Simmering Cuisine: American, French Courses: Beverage, Desert Recipe Keys: Halal High Protein

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Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 15 mins Total Time 30 mins Difficulty: Beginner Cooking Temp: 71  C Servings: 8 Calories: 280

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 4 cups whole milk
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 6 large egg yolks
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus more for garnish)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1½ cup rum, bourbon, or brandy ((optional))
• Whipped cream, for topping ((optional))

Instructions

1. Whisk the Yolks & Sugar

   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened.
   • This step is crucial for creating that custard-like base.
   
   Mark as complete

1. Heat the Milk & Cream

   • In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

   • Cook over medium heat until the mixture is steaming (but not boiling).

   • Stir often to prevent scorching.

   Mark as complete

1. Temper the Eggs

   • Slowly drizzle about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolk mixture while whisking constantly.

   • This prevents the eggs from scrambling.

   • Once tempered, pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the milk and cream.

   Mark as complete

1. Cook Until Slightly Thickened

   • Return the pan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of the spoon.

   • Do not let it boil, or the eggs may curdle.

   Mark as complete

1. Remove & Flavor

   • Take the pan off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract (and alcohol, if using).
   
   Mark as complete

1. Chill

   • Pour the eggnog into a pitcher or container and refrigerate until cold, at least 4 hours or overnight.
   • The flavors deepen as it chills.
   Mark as complete

1. Optional Frothy Finish

   • If desired, whip the reserved egg whites until soft peaks form, then fold them gently into the chilled eggnog before serving.
   • This gives it a light, airy texture.
   Mark as complete

1. Serve

   • Pour into glasses, sprinkle with freshly grated nutmeg, and serve with a cinnamon stick for garnish.
   
   Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Serving Size 1 cup

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 280kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 18g28%

Saturated Fat 11g56%

Cholesterol 180mg60%

Sodium 80mg4%

Potassium 180mg6%

Total Carbohydrate 21g8%

Sugars 19g

Protein 7g15%

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Vitamin A 800 IU

Vitamin C 1 mg

Calcium 160 mg

Iron 0.7 mg

Vitamin D 50 IU

Vitamin E 0.6 IU

Vitamin K 2 mcg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

• Never boil the custard mixture.
• Constant whisking is key during tempering.
• Chill thoroughly before serving.
• Use freshly grated nutmeg for the best flavor.
• For a frothy finish, fold in whipped egg whites.