Homemade Eggnog

If Homemade Eggnog instantly makes you think of twinkly lights, fuzzy socks, and that one family member who spikes the punch a little too generously, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re diving into a rich, comforting, wildly nostalgic drink that feels like a warm holiday hug. And yes—it’s surprisingly simple to make, even on a busy weeknight when you’re juggling kids, deadlines, or that endless holiday to-do list.

As someone who practically lives in the kitchen and believes creamy beverages are a love language, this Homemade Eggnog recipe is one of my absolute holiday joys. It’s smooth, lightly spiced, and cozy enough to turn any ordinary evening into a festive celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Eggnog

Let me tell you—Homemade Eggnog hits different when you make it yourself. The store-bought cartons just can’t compete with that fresh, velvety texture and warm blend of spices. Here’s why this will quickly become your go-to holiday sip:

• It’s quick and surprisingly easy—no fancy equipment needed.
• You control the sweetness and spice.
• It tastes like Christmas wrapped in a mug.
• It uses simple pantry ingredients you probably already have.

And honestly? It’s one of those recipes that makes people think you’re an absolute kitchen wizard… even though you secretly whipped it up between laundry cycles.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything required to make magic in a mug:

• 2 cups whole milk or 2%
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of ground cloves
• 6 egg yolks (room temperature)
• ½ cup sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Whipped cream (optional but highly encouraged)
• Extra cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting

How to Make Homemade Eggnog (Step-by-Step)

Making Homemade Eggnog from scratch feels luxurious—but the process is simple and relaxing once you get into the rhythm.

1. Warm the Milk and Spices

In a medium saucepan over medium to medium-low heat, combine the milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves.
Whisk often as it warms, bringing it just shy of boiling. Think steamy and fragrant, not rolling bubbles.

2. Whisk the Egg Yolks and Sugar

While the milk mixture heats, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar in a large bowl.
Add the sugar a little at a time—about 2 tablespoons—whisking fully before adding more.
This helps the yolks stay smooth and glossy, not grainy.

3. Temper the Eggs

This step sounds fancy but I promise, it’s easy.
Using a ladle, slowly pour about ⅓ cup of the hot milk mixture into your yolk mixture while whisking continuously.
Repeat this, ladle by ladle, until about ¾ of the milk has been incorporated.

This “tempering” gently warms the eggs so you don’t end up with scrambled eggnog. (Been there… not festive.)

4. Cook to Thicken

Pour the now-combined mixture back into the saucepan.
Cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly, until it reaches 160°F.
Use your spoon to get into the edges of the pot where eggnog likes to hide and thicken.

It’ll feel slightly thicker now but will continue to thicken as it cools.

5. Add Vanilla & Serve

Remove from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract.
Serve warm (my favorite!) or chill it for a few hours for that classic cool, creamy holiday feel.

Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
If the kids aren’t looking, you can even add a splash of your favorite adult addition.

Aneta’s Little Story

The first time I made Homemade Eggnog, my kids lined up at the kitchen counter like tiny taste testers. They took one sip, looked at each other, and declared it “way better than the store stuff.”
That was years ago, and this recipe has been a cherished family tradition ever since.
There’s just something magical about serving a drink that smells like holiday cheer and feels like comfort in a glass.

Tips for the Best Homemade Eggnog

• Don’t rush the heat. Low and slow keeps your eggnog smooth.
• If it looks a little lumpy? Don’t panic—strain it! Kitchen magic regained.
• For extra richness, replace ½ cup milk with more heavy cream.
• Want it super cold? Chill it in the fridge for 2–4 hours before serving.

Homemade Eggnog FAQs

A Cozy Note to Wrap Up

If you’ve been craving something comforting, festive, and unbelievably delicious, this Homemade Eggnog is your new holiday sidekick. It’s the kind of recipe that turns ordinary moments into special ones—and fills your home with that warm holiday aroma we all love.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or your next holiday gathering, I hope this becomes a drink your family looks forward to every year. Cheers to creamy goodness, happy kitchens, and moments that feel magical.

More Cozy Holiday Treats You’ll Love

If that creamy glass of Homemade Eggnog has you feeling all warm and festive, I’ve got a few more treats you’ll want to save for your next cozy night in. These reader favorites pair beautifully with your holiday sip and bring even more magic to the season:

• Curl up with a slice of the ultra-rich Hot Chocolate Cheesecake—it’s like a chocolatey hug in dessert form.
• Keep the festive vibes going with a warm mug of Christmas Chai Latte, packed with those cozy spices we all adore this time of year.
• Add a touch of whimsy to your dessert table with Christmas Tree Cakes—fun, adorable, and perfect for holiday gatherings.
• And if you’ve got a little extra eggnog on hand, turn it into the dreamy Eggnog Bread Pudding. Trust me, it’s pure holiday comfort in every bite.

Feel free to explore these delicious ideas—your festive kitchen adventure is just getting started!

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