Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of Nellie's Favorite Eggnog. This ultimate homemade eggnog recipe is a holiday favorite, perfect for festive gatherings and cozy nights by the fire. Made with fresh ingredients and a touch of warm spices, this classic holiday drink will delight your taste buds and fill your home with the aroma of the season. Enjoy a glass of this velvety eggnog and savor the flavors of the holidays with Nellie's Favorite Eggnog recipe.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup rum (optional)
- ¼ cup bourbon (optional)
- Garnish: freshly grated nutmeg
Directions
- Separate the egg yolks and whites into two separate bowls.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks with ½ cup of sugar until creamy and pale yellow.
- In a saucepan, heat the milk, cream, remaining sugar, vanilla extract, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, and salt over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture is hot.
- Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the beaten egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
- Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the eggnog from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
- If desired, stir in rum and bourbon.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cooled eggnog mixture.
- Cover the eggnog and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the eggnog a quick whisk to incorporate any separated ingredients.
- Pour the chilled eggnog into glasses and garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.
- Serve and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Eggnog has been enjoyed for centuries and was popular among the British aristocracy in the 17th century.
The addition of rum and bourbon adds a depth of flavor to the eggnog, but they can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
Freshly grated nutmeg adds a beautiful and aromatic touch to the finished eggnog.
Eggnog is often associated with Christmas and New Year's celebrations in America.