Eggnog is a classic holiday beverage that brings warmth and cheer to any gathering. Made with eggs, milk, sugar, and a touch of nutmeg, it's a rich and creamy treat that is often enjoyed with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. In this article, we will explore how to make eggnog from scratch, so you can impress your friends and family with your homemade version of this beloved drink.
How to Make Eggnog?
First, gather all of your ingredients. You will need:
- 4 eggs
- 4 cups of milk
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup of rum or bourbon for an adult version
Now, let's get started with the preparation:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined.
- In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to steam. Do not let it boil.
- Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously. This step is important to temper the eggs and prevent them from scrambling.
- Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly. This should take about 5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, and salt. If you're making the adult version, now is the time to add the rum or bourbon.
- Transfer the eggnog to a pitcher or individual serving glasses and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until chilled.
- Before serving, give the eggnog a good stir to incorporate any separation that may have occurred during refrigeration.
- Optional: Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon on top for added flavor and presentation.
And there you have it - a homemade eggnog recipe that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether enjoyed by the fireplace on a cold winter night or served at a festive holiday gathering, this creamy and flavorful drink is sure to become a seasonal favorite.