Homemade Eggnog (Traditional Recipe) - Homemade Hooplah (2024)

Traditional eggnog made with egg yolks, cream, milk, a heavy pour of rum, and thickened with whipped egg whites. Serve it chilled with a dash of nutmeg on top.

Homemade Eggnog (Traditional Recipe) - Homemade Hooplah (1)

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Table of Contents

  • About Homemade Eggnog
  • Does eggnog have raw egg in it?
  • How long will homemade eggnog last?
  • What type of alcohol should you use?
  • Can you make eggnog without the alcohol?
  • More great eggnog recipes
  • How to make homemade eggnog
  • Recipe Details

About Homemade Eggnog

With chilly weather on the way, there are few things better than evenings curled up by a fire with a big glass of eggnog.

And like most holiday treats, homemade eggnog is so much better than store-bought.

Plus, this recipe can also be used in most baked goods, giving you multiple ways to enjoy this classic flavor all holiday season long.

Does eggnog have raw egg in it?

Thisis a traditional eggnog recipe, which means that it does use raw eggs and the eggnog is not cooked or heated.

I know the idea of consuming raw eggs can be a little scary, but fear not! The secret to your safety is in the alcohol. Bacteria (including Salmonella) cannot live in alcohol. And the more alcohol you use, the longer the eggnog will stay fresh in your fridge.

If you’d like to read more about why it’s safe to drink classic eggnog recipes like this one, check out this article: Why You Shouldn’t Fear the Eggnog.

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How long will homemade eggnog last?

When whipping up a batch of eggnog, keep in mind that how much alcohol you use will determine not only the flavor but also how long the eggnog will stay fresh in your refrigerator.

For example, if you use 1/2 cup alcohol, the eggnog should keep for up to three days in a sealed container.

And if you use 1 cup of alcohol or more, the eggnog should keep for a few weeks and even thicken a little over time, giving it a deliciously creamy texture. It’s not uncommon for traditional eggnog like this to be prepared around Thanksgiving and aged until Christmas.

What type of alcohol should you use?

When choosing the type of alcohol to mix in your eggnog, keep the following in mind:

  • Dark rum or brandy are the most common choices for eggnog, but you can also use bourbon or whiskey.
  • High alcohol concentration can help compliment the sweetness of the eggnog.
  • Unless you come across a flavor combination that wows you, avoid too many flavors or infusions. They could mask or even ruin the flavor of the eggnog itself.
  • Don’t worry about splurging on top self booze; it’s usually not worth the money when you’re using the spirit as a mixer. Pick something mid-shelf in a price range that works for you.

Can you make eggnog without the alcohol?

Because this particular recipe does not temper the eggs, I cannot recommend making it without the alcohol. You need the alcohol in order to ensure food safety for the eggnog.

If the alcohol is a concern, try to find an eggnog recipe where the eggs are tempered (slowly heated to 160°F). And if you make an eggnog recipe that doesn’t have alcohol, you can always add a small amount of rum extract (typically anywhere from a teaspoon to a tablespoon) to still have the flavor without the kick.

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Notes & tips for how to make eggnog

  • As stated above, this eggnog recipe is made with raw eggs and alcohol. Unforunately, I don’t have instructions for how to make this recipe without raw eggs, how to temper the eggs, or how to make it without alcohol. Sorry!
  • For the best results, make sure the eggs you use are very fresh. A simple trick I use is to grab an egg carton from the back of the cooler at the grocery store; these are usually fresher than the eggs in the front of the case.
  • Like the glasses that are used in these photos? They’re great for all types of drinks! You can get a set here:Bormioli Rocco Essenza Water Glasses.

More great eggnog recipes

How to make homemade eggnog

This next part is only a photo tutorial of the recipe steps. If you’re looking for the full recipe measurements and instructions, scroll down to Recipe Details.

Step 1 – Crack open the eggs and separate the egg whites from the yolks into twolarge bowls. Cover the bowl with the egg whites with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator until called for in a later step.

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Step 2 – For the bowl with the egg yolks, add the sugar and salt, then whisk until the mixture is creamy and a pale yellow color.

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Step 3 – Add the heavy whipping cream, milk, and rum, then whisk again.

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Step 4 – Cover the bowl and chill for about an hour.

Step 5 – When ready to serve, bring out both bowls (the mixed eggnog and egg whites). For the bowl with the egg whites, use a hand mixer to whip the egg whites until ultra fluffy and stiff peaks form.

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Step 6 – Add the whipped egg whites into the bowl with the eggnog, then gently mix together until it’s nice and creamy.

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Step 7 – Serve with sprinkled nutmeg and enjoy!

Homemade Eggnog (Traditional Recipe) - Homemade Hooplah (29)

4.82 from 11 votes

Homemade Eggnog

25 minutes mins prep + 1 hour hr Chill TIme

490 kcal

Yields: 6 drinks

Traditional eggnog made with egg yolks, cream, milk, a heavy pour of rum, and thickened with whipped egg whites. Serve it chilled with a dash of nutmeg on top.

Ingredients

US CustomaryMetric

  • 6 large egg, very fresh

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 1 pinch salt

  • 1 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

  • 1 1/2 cup whole milk

  • 1/2 cup rum, or up to 1 cup *

  • 1 pinch ground nutmeg, optional, for garnish

Instructions

  • In two large bowls, crack open eggs and separate the egg whites in one bowl and the egg yolks in another.

  • Cover bowl with egg whites with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator until called for in a later recipe step.

  • In the bowl with the egg yolks, add sugar and salt, thenwhiskuntil consistency is smooth and mixture is a pale yellow in color.

  • Pour in heavy whipping cream, whole milk, and rum and whisk until combined.

  • Cover bowl with mixed eggnog with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator for at least one hour.

  • When ready to serve eggnog, remove both bowls (eggnog and egg whites) from refrigerator.

  • Using a stand mixer (or hand mixer + large bowl), whip egg whites until stiff peaks form, about 5-8 minutes. Add whipped egg whites to the bowl with the eggnog and gently mix until clumps are mostly gone and eggnog is thick and creamy.

  • Serve eggnog immediately with sprinkled nutmeg on top.

Notes

* For food safety, rum (or other alcohol of your choosing) must be used in this recipe. How much rum you use depends on taste and how long you’d like the eggnog to remain fresh. With 1/2 cup rum, eggnog will remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you use 1 cup or more of rum, the eggnog will remain good in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 weeks and will thicken while it ages.

Recipe makes 6 cups of eggnog.

Nutrition

Serving: 1drink | Calories: 490kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 274mg | Sodium: 127mg | Potassium: 196mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 37g | Vitamin A: 1244IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 136mg | Iron: 1mg

I do my best to provide nutrition information, but please keep in mind that I’m not a certified nutritionist. Any nutritional information discussed or disclosed in this post should only be seen as my best amateur estimates of the correct values.

Author: Chrisy

Homemade Eggnog (Traditional Recipe) - Homemade Hooplah (2024)

FAQs

How long will homemade eggnog last in the refrigerator? ›

If you want a thinner, completely smooth consistency, you can add the entire mixture to a blender with 1 or 2 tablespoons of milk and blend until smooth. Serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and fresh whipped cream, if desired. Store homemade eggnog in the fridge for up to one week.

How was eggnog originally made? ›

"While culinary historians debate its exact lineage, most agree eggnog originated from the early medieval" British drink called posset, which was made with hot milk that was curdled with wine or ale and flavored with spices.

Why is my homemade eggnog so thick? ›

The distinct flavors of egg, cream, and liquor meld together even after just a day or two in the fridge, making a smoother, more balanced cup of nog. The proteins in the eggs also start to thicken, giving eggnog its signature spoon-coating thickness.

What gives traditional eggnog its frothy texture? ›

It is traditionally made with cream, milk, sugar, egg yolks, and whipped egg whites (this gives it it's frothy texture & name).

How do you know if eggnog has gone bad? ›

It's recommended to check the expiration date and any signs of spoilage (such as an off odor or taste, curdled texture, or mold) before consuming leftover eggnog. If the eggnog has been left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, it should be discarded for safety reasons.

What is the best alcohol to put in eggnog? ›

Choose The Right Spirit

While brandy is the most traditional alcohol to pair with eggnog, according to traditional recipes, you can also use a mixture of dark rum and Cognac. If you like your eggnog with more of a kick you can also add bourbon, but we recommend sticking to rum and Cognac to preserve the 'nog's flavors.

What is the traditional alcohol in eggnog? ›

Brandy: Makes the Most Traditional Eggnog

For the most traditional holiday experience, reach for brandy (specifically, Cognac) to spike your 'nog. It's important to note, though, that both brandy and eggnog are quite sweet.

What country invented eggnog? ›

It is first attested in medieval England in the 14th century. Although the treat originated in Britain, the term eggnog first appeared in Britain's North American colonies—soon to be the United States—in 1775.

Is eggnog good for you? ›

Eggnog may not be considered a "health food," but the drink does have some nutritional benefits including certain vitamins and protein. Traditional eggnog is also high in sugar and fat, and for that reason, it's best to drink in moderation as a dessert.

What makes eggnog taste better? ›

Add a splash of vanilla or almond extract, or turn your eggnog into an iced eggnog latte by pouring a shot of espresso into the shaker. Either way, you'll feel the spirit of the holidays!

How long does homemade eggnog last? ›

How long does each type of eggnog last? Homemade eggnog typically lasts 2-3 days if stored in 40º F or less under the proper conditions. Store-bought eggnog lasts 5-7 days after opening if it has been refrigerated. Canned eggnog lasts 4 to 5 months and around 5-7 days after opening.

How long should you age eggnog? ›

Combine dairy, booze, and salt in a second bowl or pitcher and then slowly beat into the egg mixture. Move to a large glass jar (or a couple of smaller ones) and store in the fridge for a minimum of 2 weeks. A month would be better, and 2 better still.

What's the difference between old fashioned and traditional eggnog? ›

The old-fashioned eggnog is made with raw eggs, milk, cream, bourbon, and sugar. Usually, compared to classic eggnog, this version is stronger and creamier in taste and texture. Top it off with freshly grated nutmeg and cinnamon sticks.

What is the disease in eggnog? ›

“The most recent estimates indicate that about three out of every 10,000 eggs is positive for salmonella,” Schaffner said. “This means the risk from any individual egg is low, but of course the more eggs you combine, the higher the risk.” Pasteurization is one of the keys to avoiding salmonella poisoning from eggnog.

How to make eggnog better? ›

5 Tips for Making the Best Eggnog
  1. Be Economical. Eggnog is typically made with rum, brandy or bourbon, and Brown likes to start with a combination of dark rum and cognac. ...
  2. Yes, There Are Eggs in Eggnog. Unlike the nonalcoholic Egg Cream, Eggnog does contain eggs. ...
  3. Grate Your Own Spices. ...
  4. Quality Over Quantity.

Does homemade eggnog go bad? ›

Well, Eat By Date says that homemade eggnog only lasts two to three days in the refrigerator, which kind of makes sense. When it comes to food safety, it's probably best to go with the soonest expiration date, rather than the latest.

How many days does homemade eggnog last? ›

Homemade eggnog typically lasts 2-3 days if stored in 40º F or less under the proper conditions. Store-bought eggnog lasts 5-7 days after opening if it has been refrigerated. Canned eggnog lasts 4 to 5 months and around 5-7 days after opening.

Does alcoholic eggnog go bad if refrigerated? ›

Opened bottled eggnog with alcohol: Once opened, the alcoholic eggnog may last several weeks in the fridge [1].

Can you freeze homemade eggnog? ›

Eggnog may be frozen for up to six months. For best results, freeze eggnog in a container with a little extra room (about 1/2-inch of space from the top) to allow for expansion during freezing. Frozen egg nog should be good for about 6 months, whether it is store bought or home made.

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