Eggnog From Scratch
Homemade Eggnog From Scratch, A Holiday Farmhouse Favorite Recipe
Things that mark the start of the cozy holiday season in our farmhouse: the first fire in the woodstove, the smell of evergreen garland, and a batch of homemade eggnog chilling in the fridge. If you’ve never made eggnog from scratch before, it’s incredibly simple—and once you taste it, you’ll never want to go back to the store-bought cartons again, EVER.
This version is silky, perfectly spiced, and not overly sweet. It tastes like something that should be sipped slowly by the Christmas tree, wrapped in a blanket, with your favorite holiday music playing in the background. It’s a classic. My favorite way to enjoy it is cold with a splash of whiskey, or in a eggnog latte!
And the best part? You only need a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Method
- Whisk the egg yolks and sugar together in a medium bowl until light and creamy.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream, milk, nutmeg and salt. Stir often until mixture reaches a bare simmer.
- Add a big spoonful of the hot milk to the egg mixture, whisking vigorously. Repeat, adding a big spoonful at a time, to temper the eggs.
- Once most of the hot milk has been added to the eggs, pour the mixture back into the saucepan on the stove.
- Whisk constantly for just a few minutes, until the mixture is just slightly thickened (or until it reaches about 160 degrees F on a thermometer). It will thicken more as it cools.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla if desired. (I think it makes it too sweet but this is different for everyone)
- Pour the eggnog into a glass container with a lid.
- Refrigerate until chilled. It will thicken as it cools.
- Serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and fresh whipped cream, if desired.
- Store homemade eggnog in the fridge for up to one week, and shake before you use.
Did You Make This Recipe?
Let us know what you think?
Storage
Homemade eggnog will keep in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake or stir before serving.
Tips for a Cozy Holiday Presentation
- Serve in small glass mugs with cinnamon sticks
- Add a dollop of homemade whipped cream
- Sprinkle nutmeg on top (fresh grated if you have it—game changer!)
- Tie a ribbon around the jar if gifting
Why Homemade Eggnog is Worth It
Making your own eggnog feels like slowing down. It’s intentional, cozy, and full of old-fashioned charm. It’s the kind of recipe that makes holiday memories.
Plus—when you make it yourself—you get to control the sweetness, the spices, and the texture. No preservatives, no thick fillers, just real, wholesome ingredients.
