Holiday Spice Eggnog

Homemade eggnog is a delightful holiday treat that surpasses the store-bought version by leaps and bounds. This rich and creamy concoction is reminiscent of a simple custard, featuring the warm flavors of nutmeg and allspice with a hint of vanilla. It's an indulgent and festive beverage that is sure to become a classic holiday favorite.

Holiday Spice Eggnog

A rich and creamy holiday eggnog with warm notes of nutmeg, allspice, and vanilla.

4.79 from 75 votes
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Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Total Time 20 mins

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 1/4 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract)
  • 1 whole allspice berry, lightly crushed
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1 large egg, at room temperature
  • 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tablespoon brandy or gold rum (optional)
  • Extra nutmeg, for grating over the top

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine the milk, vanilla, and allspice. Heat until steaming, then cover and let it steep for 20-30 minutes.
  2. Place the heavy cream and nutmeg in a bowl and set a fine-mesh strainer over the top.
  3. In a separate bowl, vigorously beat together the eggs, egg yolk, sugar, and salt until thickened and pale.
  4. Reheat the milk and slowly pour it into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.
  5. Return the mixture to the pot and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until it reaches 165°F.
  6. Strain the milk mixture into the heavy cream, then chill over an ice water bath.
  7. Stir in the brandy (if using) and refrigerate until thoroughly chilled, at least one hour and up to 3 days.
  8. Pour into a glass and grate a bit of fresh nutmeg over the top before serving.