Seasonal Favorite: Classic Eggnog

It is the holiday season already. To celebrate, here is one of my family’s favorites: classic eggnog. I remember evenings with my mother sharing eggnog by the fire. When I got older I was able to add the brandy. Some people love it and some people just do not. If you are one who loves it try this one. Making it from scratch might just be the answer to giving non lovers a second chance. Plus making it at home is so much less expensive. If you want to get really crazy try it with chocolate milk. Why not, let’s get nuts.

Classic Eggnog Recipe:

Ingredients:

6 large eggs
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
Optional: 1/4 to 1/2 cup bourbon, rum, or brandy (to taste)

Instructions:

In a medium bowl, beat the eggs until well blended.
Gradually add the sugar to the eggs, beating constantly until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened.
In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it is just about to boil. Remove from heat.
Slowly add the hot milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid curdling.
Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and heat over low to medium heat, stirring constantly, until the eggnog thickens. Do not let it boil.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the eggnog cool to room temperature.
Stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and ground nutmeg. If you choose to include alcohol, add it at this stage.
Refrigerate the eggnog for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Before serving, stir the eggnog well and sprinkle with additional nutmeg for garnish.