If you love that cozy, creamy comfort in a glass, this Eggnog Easy Recipe is about to become your new holiday hero. It hits that perfect balance of rich, spiced warmth without any fuss, making it a go-to treat whether you’re winding down after a chilly day or hosting friends around the fire. Each sip delivers a luscious blend of nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla, all wrapped up in smooth, velvety textures that scream festive indulgence. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll wonder why you ever bought store-bought eggnog again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but essential—they combine classic flavors and textures that make this Eggnog Easy Recipe shine. Each one plays a role in creating that creamy, spiced, and perfectly sweetened cup of joy.

Whole milk: Forms the creamy base, giving body and richness to the eggnog.
Cinnamon stick: Adds a warm, aromatic depth throughout the cooking process.
Ground nutmeg: The signature spice that delivers that unmistakable eggnog flavor.
Pure vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness naturally and smooths out the spices.
Large egg yolks: Key for that velvety texture and richness you crave.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the mixture while helping to thicken the custard base.
Heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess and a silky finish to the drink.
Ground cinnamon for topping (optional): A simple sprinkle that adds visual appeal and extra spice kick on serving.

How to Make Eggnog Easy Recipe

Step 1: Infuse the Milk with Spice

Start by whisking together the whole milk, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract in a medium saucepan. Toss in the cinnamon stick and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. This step allows the spices to bloom beautifully into the milk, setting the stage for the rich flavors that define this recipe.

Step 2: Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar Until Pale

While your milk is warming, crack the egg yolks into a large bowl and whisk them vigorously with the granulated sugar until the mixture turns pale and creamy. This process dissolves the sugar and introduces air for a lighter texture, helping the eggnog achieve that silky mouthfeel.

Step 3: Temper the Eggs with Warm Milk

To avoid scrambling your eggs, start adding the hot milk mixture slowly, one spoonful at a time, into the yolk and sugar mixture, whisking constantly. Once you’ve incorporated about a quarter cup, you can add the rest of the milk in a steady stream, keeping the eggs silky smooth and ready for cooking.

Step 4: Cook to Thicken the Custard

Pour the combined mixture back into the saucepan and gently cook over medium heat, stirring constantly. Watch carefully as it thickens—your cue is when it coats the back of a spoon. This step creates the creamy custard base that lends this eggnog its luxurious texture.

Step 5: Stir in the Heavy Cream and Chill

Remove the pan from heat and stir in the heavy cream for that extra decadent richness. Then, transfer your eggnog to the fridge and chill for at least 2 to 4 hours. This resting time lets the flavors meld and the drink reach the perfect serving temperature.

How to Serve Eggnog Easy Recipe

Garnishes

Presentation makes all the difference when serving your Eggnog Easy Recipe. A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or freshly grated nutmeg on top adds that festive touch and aroma. For an inviting twist, float a cinnamon stick in the glass—not only does it look charming, but it imparts extra warmth as you sip.

Side Dishes

This eggnog pairs spectacularly with cozy snacks like gingerbread cookies, buttery shortbread, or even a classic fruitcake. The warm spices and creamy texture of the eggnog complement sweet, spiced desserts perfectly, transforming your little gathering into a full celebration of flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive holiday display, serve your eggnog in clear glasses or festive mugs. You can rim the glass with cinnamon sugar for an extra sweet touch or top with freshly whipped cream and a dusting of nutmeg. Want to take it up a notch? Add a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for a playful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your homemade eggnog keeps beautifully in the fridge, tightly sealed, for up to 3 days. Giving it a good stir before serving will ensure everything stays well blended and creamy, ready to enjoy whenever that eggnog craving hits again.

Freezing

Though eggnog can be frozen, the texture might change slightly when thawed due to the cream and eggs. If you do freeze it, use an airtight container and consume it within a month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and whisk vigorously before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer your eggnog warm, gently heat it over low heat on the stove while stirring constantly to avoid curdling. Never boil it again—just warm it enough to find that comforting, cozy temperature perfect for sipping.

FAQs

Can I make this Eggnog Easy Recipe without raw eggs?

This recipe cooks the egg yolks gently in the milk, which reduces the risk associated with raw eggs. The slow heating process thickens the eggnog, creating a safe and delicious custard base.

How can I make this recipe alcoholic?

When you’re ready to serve, simply stir in 1 part of your favorite alcohol to 5 parts eggnog. Classic choices include brandy, dark rum, bourbon, or cognac, but you can experiment with others like Southern Comfort or Fireball for unique flavors.

Is it possible to use a dairy alternative for the milk and cream?

Absolutely! Whole milk and heavy cream provide the richest texture, but full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream can also work as substitutes, although the flavor and texture will vary slightly.

How long does homemade eggnog last in the refrigerator?

Freshly made eggnog typically stays good for 2 to 3 days in the fridge. Always store it in a tightly sealed container and give it a quick stir before serving.

Can I prepare this eggnog in advance for a party?

Yes! In fact, making your Eggnog Easy Recipe a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just chill it thoroughly and give it a good whisk before serving to restore its velvety smoothness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about pulling off a rich, creamy, spiced eggnog in your own kitchen, and this Eggnog Easy Recipe makes it completely doable without any stress. Give it a try, and you’ll quickly see why it’s a beloved classic that brightens up any holiday or chilly evening. Once you’ve poured your first glass, it won’t just be a drink—it’ll be a celebration in every sip.

Eggnog Easy Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 26 reviews

This easy homemade eggnog recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and warmly spiced holiday treat made from whole milk, egg yolks, and a touch of nutmeg and cinnamon. Perfectly chilled and optionally spiked with your favorite liquor, it’s a festive classic that’s comforting and delicious.

Author: zara
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Beverage, Dessert
Method: Stovetop, Chilling
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Liquid Ingredients

2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Spices

1 cinnamon stick
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping, optional)

Egg Mixture

6 large egg yolks
1/2 cup granulated sugar

Instructions

Combine Milk and Spices: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the whole milk, ground nutmeg, and pure vanilla extract. Add the cinnamon stick to infuse flavor as the milk heats.
Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the milk to a low boil, stirring occasionally. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent scorching.
Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar: Meanwhile, crack the 6 large egg yolks into a large mixing bowl. Whisk them together with the 1/2 cup granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thickened.
Temper the Eggs: Slowly add a spoonful of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly. Repeat until you’ve incorporated about 1/4 cup of hot milk, making sure the egg yolks are warmed gently to avoid curdling.
Combine and Cook: Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining hot milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Do not let it boil.
Finish the Eggnog: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream to add richness and creaminess to the eggnog.
Chill: Transfer the eggnog to a container and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours until thoroughly chilled and flavors melded.
Serve: Pour the chilled eggnog into glasses. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and a cinnamon stick. Add whipped cream if desired.
Add Alcohol (Optional): For an adult version, mix 1 part of your preferred alcohol (brandy, dark rum, bourbon, cognac, Southern Comfort, or Fireball) to 5 parts eggnog and stir well before serving.

Notes

Use fresh, high-quality eggs for safety and taste.
Be careful when heating the milk and egg mixture; avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
Adjust sweetness to your preference by adding more or less sugar.
For a non-alcoholic drink, simply omit the alcohol and garnish with cinnamon sticks or freshly grated nutmeg.
Store leftover eggnog in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for best freshness.
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute milk and cream with almond or oat milk and coconut cream, but the texture and flavor will differ.