Creamy Eggnog Recipe

A luxuriously smooth, rich and creamy eggnog is Christmas in a cup. This isn’t anything like the kind you find in a supermarket; homemade eggnog is in a class of its own. Once you taste this festive classic made from scratch, you’ll never go back to store-brought again.

Our easy eggnog recipe has taken years to perfect, and now we’re finally sharing it with you. It’s a sinful seasonal treat that takes surprisingly little effort. Wondering how to make eggnog at home? Keep reading below to learn more.

What Makes This Eggnog Work

This homemade eggnog strikes the perfect balance of rich, creamy, and smooth without being overly sweet. Made with real ingredients and no shortcuts, it has that velvety texture and depth of flavor you just can’t get from a carton.

What really sets this apart is how easy it is to make. Whether you’re new how to make eggnog or a seasoned holiday pro, this easy eggnog recipe comes together beautifullt with minimal effort. The longer it chills, the better it gets: thicker, silkier, and full of classic holiday magic.

What Goes Into This Eggnog

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You only need a few simple ingredients to create a rich and festive eggnog right at home. This classic version is creamy, flavorful, and just the right amount of sweet with a warm hint of spice and a boozy finish.

• Eggs: Separating the eggs adds richness from the yolks and a light, frothy texture from the whipped whites.
• Milk and Cream: A mix of whole milk and heavy cream gives the eggnog its luxuriously smooth body.
• Vanilla and Spices: Pure vanilla, cinnamon, and freshly grated nutmeg bring warm, cozy holiday flavors to every sip.
• Rum: Adds a festive kick; use your favorite rum or swap in bourbon, brandy, or cognac to suit your taste.

Note: Please see recipe card at the bottom for a full list of ingredients with measurements

How To Make This Creamy Eggnog

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1. Warm the Milk Mixture: In a saucepan over low-medium heat, combine the milk, cream, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove and let it steep to infuse the flavors.

2. Whisk the Yolks and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick, forming ribbons when the whisk is lifted. This creates a rich base for your eggnog.

3. Temper the Eggs: Slowly whisk in the milk mixture, about ½ cup at a time, into the egg yolks to avoid scrambling. Once fully combined, stir in the rum until smooth.

4. Thicken the Eggnog: Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and return to medium heat. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly.

5. Cool and Chill: Remove from heat and allow the eggnog to cool to room temperature. Transfer to a container, cover, and refrigerate overnight or for up to 3 days.

6. Finish and Serve: Just before serving, beat the whites until soft peaks form. Gently fold them into the chilled eggnog or top with whipped cream instead.

Eggnog pairs beautifully with rich, buttery treats that highlight its creamy sweetness. Try serving it alongside Soft Peanut Butter Cookies for melt-in-your-mouth contrast that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. Or go for Snickerdoodle Cookies, the cinnamon-sugar coating plays perfectly with the warm spices in the eggnog. If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, Chocolate Rum Balls make a decadent pairing with a boozy kivk that complements the eggnog’s festive spirit.