Cocktail Recipe: Ultimate Christmas Drink to Sip—From-Scratch Eggnog

It’s a classic for a reason. Eggnog is almost expected at every holiday party, and for some, it really makes the season come together. We here at PA Eats wish you all Happy Holidays and an amazing New Year—cheers!

Ultimate Christmas Eggnog

It is just not Christmas without eggnog—everyone has had it, no one admits to liking it. Some prefer to grab their favorite variety at the grocery store, but it is also easy to make, which allows you to make it as creamy, rich and flavorful (or not) as your palate wishes. Here is one homemade eggnog recipe to use or tweak as you see fit.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups milk
  • 5 whole cloves
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 12 egg yolks
  • 1½ cups sugar
  • 2½ cups light rum (can substitute with spirit of choice; bourbon works nicely)
  • 4 cups light cream
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp nutmeg

Method

  1. Combine milk, cloves, ½ tsp vanilla and cinnamon in a saucepan, heating over the lowest setting for about 5 minutes, slowly bringing the milk to a boil.
  2. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the egg yolks and sugar. Whisk until fluffy. Whisk hot milk mixture VERY SLOWLY into the eggs.
  3. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for 3 minutes or until thick. Do not allow to boil. Strain to remove cloves and cool for one hour.
  4. Stir in liqueur, cream, 2 tsp vanilla and nutmeg. Refrigerate overnight before serving.