Mama’s Holiday Eggnog Delight

This homemade eggnog recipe is a creamy and indulgent holiday classic that is perfect for warming up in the winter months. Made with a rich combination of milk, eggs, sugar, and cream, this decadent libation is elevated with the addition of warm spices and a touch of spirits. Whether enjoyed as a non-alcoholic treat or with a splash of bourbon, rum, brandy, or amaretto, this Mama’s Holiday Eggnog Delight is sure to become a festive favorite.

Mama’s Holiday Eggnog Delight

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of Mama’s Holiday Eggnog Delight, a decadent homemade concoction perfect for the holiday season.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1/4 vanilla bean, split lengthwise, seeds scraped and reserved
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 large eggs, separated
  • 3 tablespoons sugar, divided
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • Pinch of ground nutmeg
  • Bourbon, rum, brandy, amaretto, or other spirits (optional)
  • Garnish: ground nutmeg

Instructions

  1. In a large saucepan, heat the milk, vanilla bean and seeds, and salt until the temperature reaches 190°F.
  2. In a bowl, beat the egg yolks with 2 tablespoons of sugar until pale and ribbon-like.
  3. Slowly pour 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, beating constantly.
  4. Pour the egg mixture into the pot of hot milk, whisking constantly. Add the heavy cream and cook over medium heat until the mixture reaches 170°F and coats the back of a spoon.
  5. Remove from heat, discard the vanilla bean, and set aside.
  6. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites and 1 tablespoon of sugar until stiff peaks form.
  7. Pour the milk mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large serving bowl. Carefully fold in the beaten egg whites and nutmeg.
  8. Ladle into punch cups or mugs. Add spirits to taste, if desired, and garnish with nutmeg.