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Creamy Bourbon Eggnog That Steals the Party

creamy bourbon eggnog - featured image

This creamy bourbon eggnog is a quick and easy holiday crowd-pleaser that comes together in under 15 minutes. With simple ingredients and a silky smooth texture, it’s the perfect last-minute showstopper for any festive gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 large eggs, at room temperature
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup bourbon (such as Buffalo Trace or Maker’s Mark)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, plus more for garnish
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Whisk the eggs and sugar together (5 minutes): In a large mixing bowl, crack the 6 eggs and add the ¾ cup of sugar. Whisk vigorously until the mixture becomes thick, pale, and falls in ribbons when you lift the whisk (ribbon stage). If using a hand mixer, beat on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add the milk and cream (2 minutes): Slowly pour in the 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream while whisking gently. Continue whisking until no streaks of egg mixture remain.
  3. Pour in the bourbon (1 minute): Add the 1 cup of bourbon in a slow, steady stream while whisking. The mixture should look uniform and slightly frothy on top.
  4. Add the flavorings (30 seconds): Stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Taste and adjust nutmeg or bourbon to preference.
  5. Strain the mixture (2 minutes): Place a fine-mesh strainer over a serving pitcher and pour the eggnog through it to catch any bits of egg. Press on solids in the strainer with a spatula to extract all liquid.
  6. Chill thoroughly (at least 2 hours, but overnight is best): Cover the pitcher and refrigerate. For best flavor, chill overnight.
  7. Serve with garnishes (5 minutes): Give the eggnog a gentle stir, pour into glasses, and garnish with freshly grated nutmeg. Optionally, add a cinnamon stick or star anise to each glass.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature eggs and chill the eggnog overnight to allow flavors to meld. If you don’t have a fine-mesh strainer, whisk thoroughly to avoid lumps. For a non-alcoholic version, replace bourbon with an equal amount of milk or non-alcoholic bourbon alternative. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

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