How to Make Holiday Eggnog
Eggnog is a traditional holiday drink that is beloved by many. It’s creamy, rich, and full of flavor, making it the perfect beverage to enjoy during the festive season. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply want to enjoy a warm, comforting drink at home, learning how to make holiday eggnog is a skill worth acquiring. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making this classic holiday drink, ensuring that you can enjoy a taste of the season in every sip.
Ingredients
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
– 4 cups of milk
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1/2 cup of sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Begin by gathering all your ingredients and ensuring that your eggs are at room temperature. This will help them to mix more evenly with the other ingredients.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is pale and thick. This process will take about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a separate saucepan, heat the milk and cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Be careful not to let it boil.
4. Once the milk and cream are heated, remove the saucepan from the heat and slowly pour a small amount of the hot mixture into the egg and sugar mixture, whisking constantly. This is known as “tempering” the eggs, which helps to prevent them from curdling.
5. After tempering, gradually pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the milk and cream. Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This process should take about 5-7 minutes.
6. Once the eggnog has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Continue to stir for another minute to ensure the flavors are well combined.
7. Pour the eggnog into a large pitcher or serving bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until chilled.
8. Before serving, you can garnish the eggnog with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg for an extra festive touch.
Enjoy Your Holiday Eggnog
Now that you know how to make holiday eggnog, you can enjoy this delightful drink any time you want. Whether you’re sipping it by the fire on a cold winter’s night or serving it at a holiday gathering, this creamy, flavorful beverage is sure to be a hit. Happy holidays and enjoy your homemade eggnog!
