Homemade Eggnog with Vanilla

Rich creamy eggnog made from scratch is the holiday drink everyone talks about but few people actually take the plunge to make at home. This classic recipe takes you through each step to the silkiest homemade eggnog you have ever tasted—nothing like the store-bought cartons. Sipping it by the fire the first snowy December I made it, the whole house filled with cinnamon and vanilla. Now my family insists eggnog is as much a winter tradition as decorating the tree.

My first time making this was honestly a little intimidating but I felt like a baking show star after pulling it off. That sweet spiced scent lingered for hours and friends still talk about it years later.

Ingredients

• Whole milk: This is your main base for creamy eggnog Make sure it is fresh and cold when you start
• Whole cloves: Signature for that warm spiced flavor Buy cloves whole in small amounts for best freshness
• Ground cinnamon: Gives a toasty note Freshly ground or a high-quality jar can make a real difference
• Ground nutmeg: Essential for classic eggnog flavor If possible grate from whole nutmeg for unbeatable scent
• Egg yolks: Create the signature richness Use large eggs and separate carefully so no whites get in
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens and balances spice Look for sugar with fine granules for smoother texture
• Heavy cream: Makes eggnog luxuriously thick Go for full-fat cream and shake before using
• Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and rounds out the flavor Try to use pure extract rather than imitation
• Spiced rum or bourbon: Optional but brings a grown-up festive spirit Choose a label you would drink on its own

Instructions

Warm the spices and milk:

Add whole milk cloves cinnamon and nutmeg to a small saucepan Heat gently until just boiling so the spices infuse fully into the milk

Whisk the yolks and sugar:

Whisk egg yolks and sugar in a medium bowl until the mixture is pale and fluffy This should take at least two to three minutes for best texture

Temper the eggs:

Pour a few spoonfuls of the steaming milk mixture slowly into the yolks whisking constantly This step prevents scrambled eggs and creates a smooth base

Combine and cook:

Gradually whisk the rest of the milk into the eggs Return everything to the saucepan and heat over medium Stir constantly until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon Never let it boil or the eggs can curdle

Strain and cool:

Take the pan off the heat and strain the custard to remove cloves Let it cool at room temperature for one hour

Finish with cream and spirits:

Whisk in the heavy cream vanilla and optional rum or bourbon Chill for at least a few hours or overnight for the creamiest texture and best flavor

Whenever I grate fresh nutmeg for eggnog the aroma makes me think of holiday mornings at my grandmother’s When you serve this in a fancy glass and dust with cinnamon it absolutely feels like a celebration

Storage Tips

Keep your eggnog covered tightly in the fridge Use a glass bottle or jar with a well fitting lid and always shake before pouring to mix in any settled cream Homemade eggnog is best enjoyed within two to three days for peak freshness For longer storage make a smaller batch

Ingredient Substitutions

No whole milk on hand Try half and half or a combination of two percent and a little extra cream For a dairy free twist canned coconut milk offers a delicious richness Swap the booze for maple syrup and a splash of orange extract for a kid friendly version If cloves are not your favorite you can skip them but I suggest doubling the cinnamon to keep the spice balance

Serving Suggestions

Eggnog is delicious chilled and poured over ice Dust each glass with fresh nutmeg or cinnamon for bakery style vibes For a grown up treat top with a splash more bourbon and whipped cream Just as fun try using leftover eggnog in French toast batter or added to your morning coffee

Cultural and Historical Notes

Eggnog recipes go back centuries as a Yuletide tradition enjoyed both in Europe and North America Its roots trace back to posset a warm spiced milk drink Homemade eggnog especially with boozy spirits became a festive party staple in colonial America

Seasonal Adaptations

Try adding a bit of orange zest for a citrusy winter spin Spice it up with star anise for a cozier aroma For spring celebrations swap out rum for coffee liqueur

Success Stories

A few Decembers ago I made this recipe as gifts Bottled in swing top jars with cute tags it became the most requested treat among my friends If you want a show stopping holiday centerpiece this homemade eggnog recipe truly delivers

Freezer Meal Conversion

If you need to make eggnog far in advance pour the cooled mixture into a freezer safe airtight container Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and whisk well before serving Ice crystals can form so a quick blend restores its silky texture

Homemade eggnog is not just a drink it is a holiday memory in a glass Every winter making it with my kids becomes its own tradition and the house feels instantly warmer

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you achieve a smooth eggnog texture?

Carefully temper the egg yolks and avoid boiling the mixture. Straining removes any bits for a silkier drink.

→ Can you make eggnog ahead of time?

Yes, chilling the eggnog overnight allows the flavors to blend and deepen before serving.

→ What spirit pairs best with homemade eggnog?

Spiced rum or bourbon both work wonderfully, but you can also serve it alcohol-free for all ages.

→ How long does homemade eggnog last in the refrigerator?

Stored airtight, it will keep for 2-3 days. Shake before serving each time for consistent texture.

→ What garnish enhances homemade eggnog?

A pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg sprinkled over each glass gives a fragrant festive finish.