This is the most delicious and creamy eggnog recipe for the Christmas season, one that has been part of our festive table for many years.
I once asked my kids what they most looked forward to me making at Christmas. Rum balls were high on the list, but eggnog always made an appearance too. Even now, with a few of my kids no longer living at home, it’s still something they ask for every Christmas. That alone tells me it’s a recipe worth keeping.
We usually enjoy this eggnog on Christmas morning with breakfast, but it’s just as lovely served on Christmas Eve or shared with family and friends throughout the holiday season. Once you’ve tried homemade eggnog, the store-bought versions really don’t compare, they’re just not the same.
A Family Favourite for Christmas
This recipe has a way of becoming part of your Christmas traditions. It’s rich, creamy, and feels like one of those special treats that only comes out once a year, making it all the more enjoyable.
For children or anyone who prefers it alcohol-free, the eggnog can be made without alcohol. When the kids were young we kept the batch alcohol-free and let everyone add their own splash of rum, brandy, or bourbon to their glass, stirring it through just before serving.
Tips for the Best Homemade Eggnog
Before you begin, remember to take your eggs out of the fridge a few hours ahead of time, or even the night before. Bringing them to room temperature helps everything blend together smoothly and gives the eggnog its beautiful creamy texture.
If you’re short on time on Christmas morning, you can also whip the cream the day before and keep it covered in the fridge. It’s one less thing to do and makes the whole process feel calm and unhurried.
Prepare the cream the day before
If you’re short on time on Christmas morning, you can also whip the cream the day before and keep it covered in the fridge. It’s one less thing to do and makes the whole process feel calm and unhurried.
Recipe update note:
This recipe has been slightly updated. It now uses 2 cups of cream, instead of 3 cups. The flavour is still rich and creamy, but not as thick.
Christmas Egg Nog
Ingredients
Method
- Whip 2 cups cream in an electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form, about 2–4 minutes.
- Transfer the whipped cream to a separate bowl or container and set aside (this can be done the day before to save time on Christmas morning).
- Clean and thoroughly dry the electric mixer bowl and whisk. This is important for the egg whites to whip properly.
- Separate 6 eggs , placing the yolks into a large mixing bowl and the whites into the clean mixer bowl.
- Using a hand whisk, whisk the egg yolks until they become pale yellow.
- Add ¾ cup caster sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, whisking until well combined.
- Add whipped cream, 2 cups full cream milk , 1/3 cup brandy or rum and 2/3 cup bourbon, to the yolk mixture. Gently whisk until just combined.
- Beat the egg whites in electric mixer until soft peaks form, about 3-5 minutes.
- With the mixer running, add 6 tablespoons caster sugar for the whites one tablespoon at a time.
- Continue beating until stiff peaks form, about 2-4 minutes.
- Using a spatula, gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture.
- Take your time here and fold gently to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
- Pour the eggnog into a jug or ladle into cups.
- Sprinkle with nutmeg before serving.
- Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
- If the eggnog separates, gently stir to recombine before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
Loved this recipe?
Please leave a quick star rating.This creamy eggnog is one of those recipes that feels tied to memories and moments, not just Christmas itself. Whether you’re serving it on Christmas morning, sharing it with family who drop by, or pouring a small glass in the evening, it’s a simple tradition that brings comfort and a little bit of joy. If you make it, I’d love to know when you serve it and who you share it with.
3 comments
OMG Katrina, that is so nor “Lo-Cal” but sound so good!! Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy 2017.
Oh, that looks like a perfect recipe! I only realized today that I’d made it through Christmas without having any eggnog, something which is almost unheard of for me. Think I’ll whip up a batch of this, Kat. Might actually invite a friend to help me drink it, even.
Does anyone know if the recipe can be halved? Thanks!