Pin This homemade non-alcoholic eggnog brings all the festive comfort of the holidays to your kitchen with just a handful of real ingredients and warm spices. Creamy and rich yet alcohol-free it is a cozy treat for both kids and adults (I find myself craving a glass even long after December)
I made this on a snowy evening to surprise my kids and now it is our must-have for decorating the tree and movie nights
Ingredients
- Whole milk: lends a creamy base without being overly heavy (Use the freshest milk you can for the best flavor)
- Heavy cream: gives the eggnog its lush texture (Opt for high-quality cream if possible)
- Large eggs: create the signature richness and help naturally thicken the mixture (Always check your eggs for freshness)
- Granulated sugar: balances out the spices and adds that traditional sweet note (Go for pure white sugar for best results)
- Pure vanilla extract: brings warmth and aroma (choose real extract over imitation for deeper flavor)
- Ground nutmeg: infuses the drink with its holiday spice (freshly grated will be most fragrant)
- Ground cinnamon: offers warmth and pairs perfectly with nutmeg
- Pinch of salt: brightens up the other flavors (do not skip it)
- Extra nutmeg for garnishing: makes every glass look festive and finished
Instructions
- Warm the Spices and Dairy:
- Gently heat whole milk, heavy cream, nutmeg and cinnamon in a saucepan over medium heat until just steaming but not boiling (This coaxes out the spice flavors and ensures a smooth base)
- Whisk Eggs and Sugar:
- Vigorously whisk eggs, sugar and a pinch of salt in a large bowl until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened (This helps dissolve the sugar and build out the classic texture)
- Temper the Eggs:
- Gradually whisk a ladleful at a time of the hot milk mixture into the eggs while whisking constantly (This step prevents the eggs from scrambling and ensures everything blends smoothly)
- Cook to Thicken:
- Return the combined mixture to the saucepan (Set over low heat and stir constantly with a wooden spoon until it thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon (This usually takes five to seven minutes and brings the custardy finish) Avoid letting it boil)
- Add Vanilla:
- Once removed from the heat, stir in pure vanilla extract (This preserves the vanilla's fragrant notes)
- Strain and Chill:
- Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl or pitcher (This catches any bits of overcooked egg and yields an ultra-silky finish) Let it cool to room temperature before transferring to the fridge (Chill for at least two hours)
- Serve with a Sprinkle:
- Pour into glasses and garnish each with a fresh grating of nutmeg for a festive touch (Serve cold)
Pin My absolute favorite part is finishing each glass with a generous pinch of nutmeg (My kids love to help with this step and year after year the scent immediately brings back the feeling of our family's holiday coziness)
Storage Tips
Store your homemade eggnog in a covered pitcher or glass jar in the fridge (It stays fresh and delicious for up to four days) If it separates after chilling just give it a good stir before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to make it lighter swap half and half for the heavy cream (For dairy free use oat or almond milk paired with coconut cream and make sure to still use plenty of spices) Fresh nutmeg is wonderful but ground works perfectly in a pinch
Serving Suggestions
Pour over ice for an extra chilled treat or add a spoonful of whipped cream if you are feeling indulgent (Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg on top or even try a cinnamon stick stirrer for extra flair) This eggnog is delicious with gingerbread cookies or sweet breads
Pin Finish each glass with a fresh grating of nutmeg and serve chilled for best flavor. Even eggnog skeptics end up asking for seconds!
Recipe Q&A
- → How do you prevent curdling when making this drink?
Slowly temper the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly and avoid high heat to ensure smooth texture.
- → Can dairy-free options be used?
Yes, substitute oat or almond milk and coconut cream for a dairy-free version without compromising creaminess.
- → How long does this beverage need to chill before serving?
Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours to ensure it is thoroughly chilled and flavors are developed.
- → What’s the best way to thicken the drink?
Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until it coats the back of a spoon—about 160°F/71°C.
- → Which garnishes enhance the presentation?
A sprinkle of ground nutmeg and optionally whipped cream give the drink a festive, appealing finish.
- → Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the absence of alcohol and the creamy flavor profile make it perfect for kids and family gatherings.
