If you have a soft spot for rich, indulgent holiday drinks, you’re going to absolutely adore this Creamy Spiked Eggnog with Rum and Bourbon Recipe. It’s a luscious blend of velvety custard, the warm embrace of rum and bourbon, and just the right hint of vanilla and citrus zest that comes together to make every sip feel like a cozy celebration. Whether you’re making it for holiday parties or a quiet night in, this recipe is a surefire way to impress and delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a collection of ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. There are three brown eggs grouped together on the left side. To the right of the eggs, a white bowl filled with white granulated sugar sits at the top, and directly below it is a whole yellow lemon. Between the lemon and sugar bowl, there is a small white bowl with a dark liquid inside, likely vanilla extract. Above the lemon are two small glass bowls filled with golden brown liquids, placed one above the other. To the right of these bowls, two clear glasses hold a white liquid, possibly milk or cream. Near the bottom right corner, three whole nutmegs rest close together. The image is bright and clear, taken from above. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, contributing to the decadent texture, bright aroma, or smooth flavor of the eggnog. Don’t worry, the list might look detailed but every component is simple and easy to find, and the end result is absolutely worth it!

4 large eggs, separated: Essential for creating that creamy custard base and fluffy whipped texture.
100g (½ cup) golden caster sugar: Adds sweetness with a subtle caramel note that lifts the flavor.
500ml (2 cups) milk: Provides the foundational creaminess and balances richness perfectly.
250ml (1 cup) cream: For that luscious, silky mouthfeel we all crave in an eggnog.
1 lemon, zest only: Gives a fresh, zesty brightness that cuts through the richness.
10 ml (2 tsp) vanilla paste: Brings warmth and depth with its fragrant sweetness.
125ml (½ cup) rum: The classic spiked ingredient that lends delightful warmth and complexity.
30ml (2 tbsp) bourbon: Adds a smoky, caramel dimension that pairs beautifully with rum.
25g (⅛ cup) caster sugar: To sweeten the whipped egg whites for airy fluffiness.

How to Make Creamy Spiked Eggnog with Rum and Bourbon Recipe

Step 1: Whisk the egg yolks with sugar

Start by placing the egg yolks and golden caster sugar in a large mixing bowl. Whisk until the mixture turns a lovely light yellow and thickens into ribbons that slowly fall from your whisk. This is your first step toward that rich, creamy custard texture that defines this eggnog.

Step 2: Warm the milk mixture

In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, lemon zest, and vanilla paste. Heat everything gently over low heat just until it’s about to simmer and fragrant with vanilla and citrus. This warming releases the flavors that elevate the whole drink.

Step 3: Temper the egg yolks

Carefully add the warm milk mixture to the egg yolks little by little, whisking constantly. This step slowly raises the temperature of the yolks without scrambling them, which ensures a silky custard once you reheat the entire mix on the stove.

Step 4: Reheat and add the spirits

Pour the combined mixture back into the saucepan and stir in the rum and bourbon. Gently heat while stirring until the custard thickens slightly to a pourable, runny custard consistency. The booze infuses the eggnog with its signature warm kick.

Step 5: Chill the custard

Transfer the custard into a jar or container and let it cool completely. Then pop it into the fridge for about two weeks. This resting period allows the flavors to deepen and develop, creating that irresistible creaminess and complexity.

Step 6: Prepare the egg whites

While the custard chills, place the egg whites in an airtight container and freeze them. After two weeks, defrost and whisk until soft peaks form, gradually adding caster sugar until the mix is glossy and sweet.

Step 7: Fold egg whites into the custard

Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the chilled custard. This final step gives your Creamy Spiked Eggnog with Rum and Bourbon Recipe that light, airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the rich custard base.

Step 8: Serve and enjoy

Pour your eggnog into your favorite glasses, maybe sprinkle a little nutmeg or cinnamon on top if you like. Sit back and savor every creamy, spirited sip of this timeless holiday classic.

How to Serve Creamy Spiked Eggnog with Rum and Bourbon Recipe

A stack of eight round, light golden cookies with a slightly cracked surface and drizzled with thin lines of white icing sits on a white marbled surface. Next to the cookies is a clear glass mug filled with a creamy, beige drink topped with a light dusting of cinnamon powder that creates a warm contrast on the smooth frothy layer. The mug’s clear handle is visible on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a little garnish makes the experience even more special. Consider a dusting of grated nutmeg or cinnamon for warmth and fragrance, or a cinnamon stick for stirring that adds a friendly festive flair. A twist of lemon peel or a few whole cloves can also lift the aroma perfectly.

Side Dishes

Eggnog is fantastic as a drink on its own, but if you want to serve something alongside, think cozy and comforting: gingerbread cookies, spiced nuts, sugar-dusted shortbread, or even a classic fruitcake. These sweet bites complement the creamy richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, serve this eggnog in charming mason jars tied with twine or mini ornaments for a rustic feel. You could also float a few star anise pods or a fresh sprig of rosemary for an elegant touch. Cold or warmed gently, this eggnog always shines visually and taste-wise!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This eggnog keeps incredibly well thanks to the slow infusion of flavors during the chilling phase. Store leftovers in the fridge tightly covered and consume within a week for the best taste and safety.

Freezing

While the custard can be frozen before folding in the egg whites, it’s best to avoid freezing the final mixed eggnog as the texture can change upon thawing. Instead, freeze the egg whites separately and whip them fresh on serving day, then fold into thawed custard.

Reheating

If you prefer warmed eggnog, gently heat your serving in a pan on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent curdling. Avoid boiling to keep that perfect creamy texture intact. Warmed eggnog with a sprinkle of nutmeg is pure comfort in a glass.

FAQs

Is it safe to use raw eggs in this recipe?

This recipe uses a gentle heating process called tempering which cooks the egg yolks into a custard, making it safe to consume. The egg whites are whipped separately and folded in after a resting period in the fridge. For extra caution, use pasteurized eggs.

Can I make this eggnog without alcohol?

Absolutely! You can omit rum and bourbon and replace with a teaspoon of rum extract or vanilla for flavor. The custard base is delicious on its own and can be enjoyed by all ages.

How long does the eggnog keep once mixed?

Once the whipped egg whites are combined with the custard, it’s best consumed within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness. Store it covered in the fridge and give it a gentle stir before serving.

Can I use different types of milk or cream?

Yes, whole milk and heavy cream provide the best richness, but you can substitute with alternatives like oat milk and coconut cream for a dairy-free twist. The texture might vary slightly but the flavor will still be delightful.

What is the purpose of freezing the egg whites?

Freezing the egg whites helps to prolong their freshness while the custard rests and allows you to whip them into soft peaks just before folding in, ensuring a light, fluffy texture that balances the creaminess perfectly.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Spiked Eggnog with Rum and Bourbon Recipe truly is a treasure worth having in your holiday repertoire. It’s rich, flavorful, and lovingly crafted to bring joy to any occasion. Once you try it, this classic with its enchanting warmth will surely become one of your favorites to share again and again.