Classic Holiday Eggnog
The holidays are a time of warmth, celebration, and, of course, delicious treats. One classic recipe that often graces our tables during this festive season is eggnog. This rich and creamy beverage is not only a comforting drink but also a delightful way to share joy with family and friends. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that takes traditional eggnog to the next level, using a blend of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Decadent Flavor: The combination of egg yolks, sweeteners, and spices creates a luxurious base for your eggnog. The warmth of nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves melds beautifully with the sweetness of maple syrup and honey, making each sip a comforting experience.
Versatile Ingredients: This recipe allows for adaptability. Whether you prefer using stevia, maple syrup, or honey, you can tailor the sweetness to your liking. Additionally, the choice of milk—be it macadamia nut milk, coconut milk, or any non-dairy alternative—ensures everyone can enjoy this festive drink.
A Touch of Spirit: For those who enjoy a little extra warmth during the holiday season, this recipe includes spiced rum, cognac, and whiskey. These spirits not only enhance the flavor but also add a festive touch that’s perfect for gatherings.
Impressive Presentation: Serving this homemade eggnog will surely impress your guests. With a sprinkle of fresh nutmeg on top, it looks as fantastic as it tastes.
Rich in Tradition: Making your own eggnog allows you to connect with holiday traditions and create new memories in the kitchen. It's a recipe that you can pass down through generations, adding your unique twist along the way.
Helpful Tips for Making the Perfect Eggnog:
Tempering the Eggs: One of the key steps in this recipe is tempering the egg yolks. This process involves slowly adding the hot milk mixture to the egg yolks while whisking continuously. This helps to prevent the eggs from curdling and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
Chill Time: For the best flavor and texture, allow your eggnog to chill thoroughly for at least six hours. This not only helps the flavors meld together but also ensures that the drink is served very cold, which is essential for a refreshing eggnog experience.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. If you love the warmth of cinnamon, feel free to add a bit more. The same goes for nutmeg and cloves—experimenting can help you find the perfect balance that suits your palate.
Garnishing: When it comes to serving, consider garnishing your eggnog with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg or even a cinnamon stick for that extra festive flair. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds an aromatic touch.
Non-Alcoholic Version: If you’re hosting a gathering where some guests prefer a non-alcoholic drink, simply leave out the spirits. You can still enjoy a delicious and creamy eggnog that everyone can savor.
Ingredients:
6 egg yolks
Sweetener of choice (I use stevia)
⅓ cup maple syrup
¾ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cloves
1½ cups milk, divided (substitute any nut or non-dairy milk)
14 ounces coconut milk (approximately 1 can)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sweetener, maple syrup, nutmeg, and cinnamon until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of macadamia nut milk and the coconut milk over medium heat until steaming.
3. While whisking the egg mixture, slowly drizzle in the steaming milk mixture to temper the eggs, whisking until well combined.
4. Stir in the remaining macadamia nut milk and strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer. Add the liquors and vanilla extract, stirring well.
5. Chill the eggnog thoroughly in the refrigerator for about 6 hours.
6. Serve very cold, garnished with fresh nutmeg sprinkled on top.
