Subscribe to get Weekly delicious and simple recipes to your inbox
Classic Eggnog
Some days, being a mom feels like running a five-star restaurant with two toddlers who think spaghetti belongs on the dog, not the plate. Yesterday was one of those days. I was mid-sip of my morning coffee, trying to convince myself that the chaos around me was just “creative play,” when it hit me – nothing says comfort like a warm glass of Classic Eggnog.
For when your kid’s dinner ends up on the floor, again, this Easy Eggnog Recipe is your secret little holiday hug in a mug. I’ve been making Classic Eggnog for years, and honestly, it’s one of those recipes that makes my kitchen smell like Christmas and my heart feel like a cozy blanket. Whether you’re sipping it straight, spiking it into Eggnog Alcoholic Drinks, or even turning it into Eggnog Coffee for an early morning pick-me-up, this Homemade Eggnog Recipe is versatile enough to handle any holiday mood or mess.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Eggnog
This Classic Eggnog is creamy, perfectly spiced, and just sweet enough to feel indulgent without going overboard. Plus, it’s totally customizable – want it boozy? Homemade Eggnog With Alcohol will do the trick. Want a non-alcoholic version for the little ones? No problem. You can even turn it into a festive Eggnog Latte Recipe or mix it into your favorite Eggnog Dessert Recipes. The best part? It’s easier than you think to whip up a batch from scratch, and it’s way more satisfying than any store-bought carton. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll be making it every year.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup bourbon or rum (optional for Homemade Eggnog With Alcohol)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Medium saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large pitcher or heatproof serving bowl
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1:
Separate your eggs, carefully placing the yolks in one bowl and the whites in another.
Step 2:
Whisk the yolks with sugar, until pale and creamy.
Step 3:
Heat the milk, cream, nutmeg, and cinnamon in a saucepan over medium heat until just simmering. Don’t let it boil!
Step 4:
Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling. Then return the mixture to the saucepan and cook gently for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5:
Remove from heat and add vanilla and alcohol if using. Stir to combine.
Step 6:
Whip the egg whites until soft peaks form, then gently fold into the warm eggnog for a light, frothy texture.
Step 7:
Chill for at least 2 hours before serving, or enjoy warm if you’re in “I just need a break” mode.
What To Serve With
I love pairing Classic Eggnog with Small Town Lasagna, Sugar Cookies, or a slice of Panocha. The rich creaminess of the eggnog balances savory and sweet treats beautifully, making it perfect for casual family dinners or festive holiday gatherings.
Mom-Style Tips
- Shortcut: If you’re out of nutmeg, cinnamon alone works perfectly.
- Mix it up: Transform your Classic Eggnog into Recipes Using Eggnog like eggnog pie or eggnog muffins.
- Kid-friendly tweak: Omit alcohol and add a little extra vanilla for a sweet treat everyone can enjoy.
- Storage: Keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. Give it a quick whisk before serving if it separates.
FAQ
How To Make Eggnog Safe For Kids?
Use pasteurized eggs or cook the eggnog gently until it reaches 160°F to kill any bacteria. Skip the alcohol, and you’re good to go.
Can I Make Eggnog Ahead Of Time?
Absolutely. Classic Eggnog actually tastes better after sitting overnight in the fridge because the flavors meld beautifully.
Can I Use Almond Milk or Other Non-Dairy Milks?
Yes, but the eggnog will be less creamy. Coconut milk or oat milk makes a nice, thick alternative.
How Do I Turn Classic Eggnog Into Eggnog Coffee?
Simply add ½ cup of eggnog to your morning coffee instead of milk or cream. Sweet, spiced, and totally indulgent.
Sip Back and Relax: Your Mom Moment
There’s something magical about Classic Eggnog. Maybe it’s the smell of nutmeg in the air or the way it makes chaos feel a little more manageable. Maybe it’s just knowing that for a brief moment, everyone can pause, sip, and smile – even if a little spaghetti ends up on the dog. Pour yourself a glass, put your feet up, and enjoy your well-earned cozy victory. Classic Eggnog isn’t just a holiday drink. It’s a small celebration of surviving motherhood with a sense of humor and a little sweetness along the way. Cheers to that.
Classic Eggnog
Course: DrinkDifficulty: Easy6
servings15
minutes10
minutes300
kcal1
hour10
minutesDiscover 7 easy and delicious Classic Eggnog recipes perfect for busy moms. From Homemade Eggnog With Alcohol to Eggnog Coffee and Eggnog Dessert Recipes, these cozy holiday drinks are a must-try.
Ingredients
4 large eggs, separated
1/3 cup granulated sugar, plus 1 tablespoon
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, plus more for garnish
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup bourbon, rum, or brandy (optional)
Directions
- Whisk yolks: In a medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks and 1/3 cup sugar until mixture is smooth and pale.
- Heat milk & spices: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Heat until hot but not boiling.
- Temper eggs: Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly. Return everything to the saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5–7 minutes). Do not boil.
- Add vanilla & alcohol: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and your choice of bourbon/rum/brandy (if using). Let cool slightly.
- Whip egg whites: In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with 1 tablespoon sugar until soft peaks form
- Combine: Gently fold egg whites into the cooled mixture for a frothy texture.
- Serve: Pour into cups or glasses, sprinkle with nutmeg, and enjoy chilled.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, just omit the bourbon/rum/brandy.
Eggnog can be made a day ahead; store in the fridge and add whipped egg whites just before serving for best texture.



