Description
Classic homemade eggnog combines rich custard with warm spices and a hint of alcohol, resulting in a creamy, festive drink perfect for holiday gatherings. This recipe includes a two-week aging process to develop deep flavors and a frothy finish achieved by folding in whipped egg whites.
Ingredients
Custard Base
- 4 large egg yolks
- 100g (½ cup) golden caster sugar
- 500ml (2 cups) milk
- 250ml (1 cup) cream
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 10 ml (2 tsp) vanilla paste
- 125ml (½ cup) rum
- 30ml (2 tbsp) bourbon
Meringue
- 4 large egg whites
- 25g (⅛ cup) caster sugar
Instructions
- Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar: Place 4 egg yolks in a large mixing bowl with the golden caster sugar. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is pale yellow, forms light ribbons, and has approximately doubled in size.
- Heat Dairy Mixture: In a large saucepan, combine milk, cream, lemon zest, and vanilla paste. Heat the mixture over low heat until just below simmering, ensuring it doesn’t boil.
- Temper Egg Yolks: Gradually add about 60ml (1/4 cup) increments of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking continuously to avoid curdling. Once all the milk is incorporated, return the mixture to the saucepan.
- Add Alcohol and Thicken: Stir in rum and bourbon. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly into a runny custard texture.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Pour the custard into a jar or airtight container and allow it to cool to room temperature. Place in the refrigerator for two weeks to allow flavors to develop.
- Freeze Egg Whites: Meanwhile, place the egg whites into an airtight container and freeze to be used later in the recipe.
- Defrost and Whip Egg Whites: After two weeks, defrost the egg whites completely. Whisk them in a clean bowl until soft peaks form, then slowly add the caster sugar while continuing to whisk until fully incorporated and glossy.
- Combine Custard and Meringue: Gently fold the chilled custard mixture into the whipped egg whites until evenly blended, being careful to maintain the airy texture.
- Serve: Pour the finished eggnog into your choice of glasses and serve immediately. Enjoy the creamy, frothy homemade eggnog!
Notes
- The two-week refrigeration step allows the flavors to mature and mellow, creating a richer eggnog taste.
- Freezing the egg whites before whipping helps them achieve better volume when beaten.
- Ensure to temper the egg yolks slowly with hot milk to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- This recipe contains raw or partially cooked eggs; make sure to use fresh, high-quality eggs and follow safe food handling practices.
- You can adjust the amount of alcohol to taste or omit it for a non-alcoholic version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American