Easiest Joy Of Cooking Eggnog Recipe for Festive Cheer

Joy of Cooking’s eggnog transports us into a world of rich, nostalgic flavors that warm winter gatherings.

Creamy and luxurious, this classic beverage represents more than just a drink – it’s a celebration of tradition and comfort.

Delicate egg yolks and sugar dance together, creating a silky smooth texture that melts on your tongue.

Whipping cream adds an indulgent richness that transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

Nutmeg sprinkled across the surface hints at festive memories and cozy evenings by the fireplace.

Generations have cherished this recipe, passing down its delectable secrets from kitchen to kitchen.

Small moments of culinary magic await those willing to embrace this timeless treat: prepare to be enchanted.

What Makes Eggnog Recipe Special

• Craft Creamy Comfort: This eggnog recipe delivers a silky smooth texture that wraps you in warm holiday happiness. Each sip feels like a luxurious embrace of rich, velvety goodness.
• Quick Festive Magic: Whip up this delightful drink in just 25 minutes, transforming simple ingredients into a celebration-worthy beverage. No complicated techniques required – just pure, delicious simplicity.
• Customize Your Cheer: Flexible preparation lets you adjust thickness, add alcohol, or top with fresh whipped cream. Play with nutmeg levels to make the recipe uniquely yours, creating a personalized holiday treat that sparks joy.
• Long-Lasting Delight: Stored safely in the refrigerator for up to a week, this eggnog becomes a convenient make-ahead option for spontaneous gatherings or quiet moments of seasonal indulgence.

Key Ingredients for Eggnog Recipe

• Cream: Rich base that gives eggnog its luxurious texture and smooth mouthfeel.
• Milk: Helps create the classic creamy consistency of traditional eggnog.

• Egg Whites: Provides light, fluffy texture and helps thicken the mixture.
• Egg Yolks: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, custard-like base.

• Sugar: Essential sweetener that balances the rich dairy and egg flavors.
• Vanilla: Adds warm, classic flavor and enhances the overall taste profile.
• Nutmeg: Traditional spice that gives eggnog its signature holiday aroma and taste.
• Salt: Subtle ingredient that enhances and balances all other flavors.

• Alcohol: Optional ingredient that can add depth and warmth to the eggnog, traditional choices include bourbon or rum.

Eggnog Recipe Cooking Directions

Step 1: Whip Egg Whites and Sugar

In a medium bowl, combine egg whites and sugar. Whisk vigorously until the mixture becomes light, airy, and forms soft peaks.

Step 2: Heat Dairy and Spices

• Cream
• Milk
• Nutmeg
• Salt

Stir constantly until the mixture is hot and just starting to steam, but not boiling.

Step 3: Temper the Egg Mixture

Gradually add hot milk to egg whites, 1 large spoonful at a time. Whisk continuously to prevent egg whites from scrambling. This process slowly raises the temperature of the eggs, creating a smooth base.

Step 4: Combine and Cook

Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the pot on the stove. Whisk continuously until the mixture reaches 160°F (71°C), which indicates it’s safe and slightly thickened.

Step 5: Add Flavor Enhancers

• Vanilla extract
• Alcohol (optional)

Step 6: Strain and Cool

Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher or container. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until completely chilled.

Step 7: Adjust Consistency

If the eggnog is too thick, blend with 1-of milk until smooth and creamy.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

• Freshly ground nutmeg
• Whipped cream

Step 9: Storage

Refrigerate for up to 7 days. Always store in a sealed container.

Helpful Tips for Eggnog Recipe

• Chill and Refresh: Refrigerate the eggnog for at least 2 hours before serving to enhance flavor melding and achieve a perfectly cool, creamy consistency.
• Strain for Smoothness: Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any potential egg bits, guaranteeing a silky, luxurious drink that glides down smoothly.
• Customize Your Kick: Experiment with different spirits like bourbon, rum, or brandy to personalize your eggnog and match your taste preference. Start with small amounts and adjust to your liking.
• Whip with Precision: Use a balloon whisk or electric mixer to incorporate air into the egg yolks and sugar, creating a light, pale yellow base that sets the foundation for a dreamy eggnog.
• Garnish for Glamour: Top with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg or a cinnamon stick to add a festive touch and boost the traditional holiday flavor profile.

Expert Advice on Eggnog RecipeStorage

• Freezer Method: Preserve eggnog's creamy goodness by transferring it to airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Prevent freezer burn by leaving a small space at the top for expansion, which helps maintain the drink's smooth texture when thawed.
• Refrigeration Method: Seal eggnog in a tightly covered glass or plastic container to lock in freshness. Consume within 5-7 days for optimal taste and quality, ensuring the rich flavors remain vibrant and delicious.
• Thawing Method: Gently defrost frozen eggnog in the refrigerator overnight, allowing it to return to its original creamy consistency. Stir thoroughly before serving to reincorporate any separated ingredients, restoring the drink's original luxurious appeal.

Twists on Eggnog Recipe

• Festive Spice Boost: Enhance the classic recipe by adding ground cinnamon, cardamom, and a hint of cloves to create a warmly spiced version that tingles the taste buds.
• Chocolate Indulgence: Melt dark chocolate into the milk mixture and sprinkle cocoa powder on top for a rich, decadent chocolate eggnog that transforms the traditional recipe.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute dairy milk with coconut milk or almond milk, and use coconut cream instead of regular cream to create a creamy, plant-based alternative that everyone can enjoy.
• Tropical Rum Splash: Swap traditional spirits with coconut rum or a tropical liqueur to give the eggnog an exotic flavor profile that transports you to a beachside holiday celebration.

Eggnog Recipe Recap

Holiday cheer emerges through classic eggnog, bringing warmth and nostalgia to winter celebrations.

Classic recipes connect generations with rich, creamy traditions passed between family members.

Homemade eggnog provides superior taste compared to store-bought alternatives, ensuring delightful flavor profiles.

Careful preparation guarantees smooth, silky results that complement festive gatherings.

Nutmeg and vanilla create magical sensory experiences with each carefully crafted sip.

Classic cocktail enthusiasts and holiday revelers will discover pure magic in this simple yet sophisticated recipe – share this culinary treasure, spark conversation, spread seasonal joy, and let loved ones savor traditional comfort in a glass.

Joy Of Cooking Eggnog Recipe

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4.6 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Silky holiday eggnog from Joy of Cooking delivers classic Christmas cheer with rich, creamy perfection. Whisked eggs, cream, and spirited bourbon blend into a luxurious festive beverage you’ll savor by the fireplace.

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Ingredients

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Main Dairy Ingredients:

• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 6 large egg yolks

Sweeteners and Flavoring:

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Garnish and Seasonings:

• 1 pinch salt
• Ground cinnamon, for topping
• Alcohol (optional)

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Instructions

1. Whisk granulated sugar and egg whites in a medium mixing bowl until the texture becomes airy and pale, creating a light, smooth base for the eggnog.
2. Combine heavy cream, whole milk, ground nutmeg, and salt in a saucepan, heating over medium-high temperature while continuously stirring to prevent scorching and ensure even heat distribution.
3. Temper the egg mixture by gradually introducing small portions of the heated milk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling and create a smooth, integrated liquid.
4. Slowly transfer the tempered egg and milk combination back into the original saucepan, maintaining gentle heat and constant movement with a whisk.
5. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius), which indicates the eggs are safely cooked and the custard has slightly thickened.
6. Remove from heat and incorporate pure vanilla extract and optional rum or bourbon, stirring thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.
7. Position a fine-mesh strainer over a clean pitcher or storage container to strain the eggnog, eliminating any potential egg solids and ensuring a silky texture.
8. Refrigerate the strained mixture for several hours, allowing it to cool completely and develop a richer, more cohesive consistency.
9. Before serving, optional garnishes include a light dusting of freshly grated nutmeg, a dollop of whipped cream, or a cinnamon stick for additional aromatic complexity.
10. Store the eggnog in a sealed container within the refrigerator, consuming within 5-7 days for optimal flavor and freshness.

Notes

• Chilling matters most for developing deep, complex flavors that transform this classic drink from good to extraordinary.
• Room temperature ingredients blend seamlessly, ensuring smoother incorporation and preventing unwanted ingredient separation.
• Fresh nutmeg makes a remarkable difference, offering a warm, aromatic complexity that pre-ground spices simply cannot match.
• High-quality eggs determine the custard’s richness, with farm-fresh options providing superior taste and smoother texture.
• Whisking technique creates magnificent volume, transforming ordinary ingredients into a luxurious, silky beverage.
• Warming milk gently prevents egg curdling, maintaining a smooth, creamy consistency throughout the preparation.
• Alcohol selection impacts the final flavor profile, with dark rum or bourbon adding depth and warmth to the traditional recipe.
• Straining helps achieve an ultra-smooth consistency, removing any potential egg bits or textural irregularities.
• Refrigeration time allows flavors to meld and intensify, creating a more complex and satisfying eggnog experience.
• Serving temperature significantly affects taste, with slightly chilled eggnog offering optimal flavor and mouthfeel.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Drinks, Desserts
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 364 kcal
• Sugar: 22 g
• Sodium: 37 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 29 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 186 mg