This homemade eggnog is a rich, creamy, and comforting drink that captures the warmth of the holiday season. Made with simple pantry ingredients and gently cooked for safety, it delivers a smooth texture and cozy spice flavor that feels special yet approachable. Perfect for serving guests or enjoying a quiet winter evening, this alcohol-free version lets the classic flavors shine.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It uses simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have at home
The texture is thick, creamy, and luxurious without being heavy
It’s alcohol-free, making it suitable for the whole family
The warm spices create a cozy, festive aroma
It can be made ahead of time and served chilled when needed
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
6 large egg yolks
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 ½ cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 whole cloves
Directions
In a large heat-safe bowl, add the egg yolks, granulated sugar, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Whisk continuously for about 2 minutes, until the mixture becomes pale and the sugar is mostly dissolved.
In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and whole cloves. Heat over medium heat until the mixture begins to gently simmer, with small bubbles forming around the edges. Do not allow it to boil.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Slowly pour about ½ cup of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan. Return to low heat and cook gently, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 160°F. This ensures the egg yolks are fully cooked and safe to consume.
Remove from heat and strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer to remove the cloves and any cooked egg bits.
Allow the eggnog to cool slightly, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Stir well before pouring into glasses.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 cups (about 2 to 4 servings, depending on glass size)
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 6–7 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
Chocolate eggnog: Add 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder and 2 ounces melted dark chocolate to the milk mixture while heating.
Chai-spiced eggnog: Steep one chai tea bag in the warm milk mixture for extra spice and depth. Remove before tempering the eggs.
Sweeter flavor: Replace granulated sugar with light brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like taste.
Lighter texture: Use half whole milk and half low-fat milk for a thinner consistency.
Storage/Reheating
Store homemade eggnog in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir or shake well before serving, as separation may occur.
Reheating is not recommended, as it may cause curdling. Eggnog is best enjoyed chilled. Freezing is also not ideal due to texture changes, but frozen leftovers can be used later in smoothies if needed.
FAQs
Can I make eggnog without heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with additional whole milk, but the eggnog will be less rich and slightly thinner.
Is this eggnog safe to drink with eggs in it?
Yes, the egg yolks are cooked to 160°F, which makes them safe to consume.
Can I use a sweetener other than sugar?
Yes, honey or pure maple syrup can be used, but they may slightly change the flavor and color.
How thick should homemade eggnog be?
It should coat the back of a spoon lightly. It will continue to thicken as it chills in the refrigerator.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Why do I need to temper the eggs?
Tempering prevents the eggs from scrambling when added to the hot milk.
Can I strain out the spices?
Yes, straining removes the cloves and ensures a smooth texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and use a larger saucepan.
What spices work best in eggnog?
Nutmeg and cinnamon are classic, but a small pinch of ginger or cloves also works well.
Can I serve eggnog warm?
This recipe is best served chilled, as reheating may affect the texture.
Conclusion
Homemade eggnog is a comforting, festive drink that’s well worth making from scratch. With its creamy texture, warm spices, and simple preparation, it’s a wonderful addition to holiday gatherings or cozy winter nights at home. Once you try this version, you’ll appreciate just how special homemade eggnog can be.
Creamy, cozy, and spiced just right, this homemade eggnog is a classic holiday drink made with wholesome ingredients and no alcohol—perfect for festive family gatherings or quiet winter nights.
Ingredients
6 large egg yolks
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 1/2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 whole cloves
Instructions
In a large heat-safe bowl, whisk together egg yolks, granulated sugar, nutmeg, and cinnamon for about 2 minutes until pale and smooth.
In a saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and whole cloves. Heat over medium heat until small bubbles form around the edges (do not boil).
Remove from heat. Slowly whisk about 1/2 cup of the hot milk into the egg yolk mixture to temper.
Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan and return to low heat. Stir constantly until the mixture reaches 160°F.
Remove from heat and strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove cloves and any curdled egg bits.
Let cool slightly, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Stir well before pouring into glasses. Serve chilled.
Notes
For a lighter eggnog, use low-fat milk in place of some or all of the whole milk.
Use brown sugar for a richer, caramel-like flavor.
Make up to 2 days ahead; flavors develop more over time.
